A WILLING CAPTIVE

JOHN 18:1–11

So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into the sheath! Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?”

(John 18:11)

It is not our purpose in this study to analyze the differences among the gospel accounts regarding the arrest of Jesus. Let it suffice to say that while each of the gospels contains different details, they complement one another in perfect harmony. So we will not haggle over the differences but rather benefit from this historical account as one that is full of majesty and glory, for it is here that we see our Good Shepherd embrace the Cross. No longer does He pray that the cup pass from Him, but He declares publicly that He will indeed drink the cup of death and wrath that the Father had prepared for Him.

Let us look at the various ways Jesus gave Himself up willingly, thus fulfilling the prophecy that He was a like a sheep being led to slaughter. First, He goes to the Kidron Valley—a place well-known to Judas. Jesus was fully aware that Judas planned to intercept them there. And it was exactly because of Judas’ plans that He went there. Jesus would not be captured like a hunted animal but would give Himself up without restraint.

Then, despite Judas’ plotting to expose the Nazarene, Jesus openly declared His identity to the soldiers. Judas probably assumed Jesus would hide behind the skirts of the disciples and would have to be forcefully exposed. But this was not the case. And even though Judas still betrayed Him with a kiss, it was not as intended because Jesus freely stepped forward and identified Himself in a most powerful way. The declaration He made was with all the majesty and authority of the King of Heaven: “I am.” With those words, the soldiers fell back in awe and intimidation.

Jesus knew He would have to stand alone in the hour of His death, and He faced it with resolve. Even when Peter, impetuous as ever, drew His sword, Jesus admonished him, saving, “No one can stop Me from the task before Me.” Soldiers had come under the cover of darkness, thinking they would have to drag away a reluctant captive. Instead, they faced the King of kings who willingly and with compassion (as was evidenced by His concern for the disciples and for healing the injured soldier) took control of the situation and began His final journey to Calvary.

CORAM DEO

Isaiah 27–28

Ephesians 5

WEEKEND

Isaiah 29–33

Ephesians 6–Phillipians 1

Jesus knew the will of His Father. He knew He would have to go to the Cross to die for I His people. He did this willingly and with a heart full of love for His people. Do you have a difficult duty that God has called you to? What is your attitude? Do you do it reluctantly or willingly? Ask God to give you Christ’s attitude.

For further study: Matt. 26:47–56 • Mark 14:43–52 • Luke 22:47–53

WEEKEND