Jesus Arrested

Read Luke 22:46-71, John 18:1-27, Matthew 27:3-10
 
John 18:7-10 Once more he asked them, “Who are you looking for?” And again they replied, “Jesus the Nazarene.” 8 “I told you that I AM he,” Jesus said. “And since I am the one you want, let these others go.” 9 He did this to fulfill his own statement: “I did not lose a single one of those you have given me.” 10 Then Simon Peter drew a sword and slashed off the right ear of Malchus, the high priest's slave.
 
JESUS said in John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me – 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father –  and I lay down my life for the sheep.” And he prayed in John 17:11 I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name – the name you gave me – so that they may be one as we are one.
   At his arrest, Jesus was the good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd stood between the authorities and his appointed apostles. Peter’s violence is put aside as Jesus heals Malchus’ ear (Luke 22:51). Jesus calmed the emotional storm here as he calmed the sea in Mark 4:39-40. The Good Shepherd protects.
   Do you believe Jesus’ protection is still very active for you and his church? He knows, of course, many forces will oppose you. Some opposition are seen in your own hesitations, doubts, worries and misunderstandings about your kingdom role. Other oppositions can be outward threats against you. 
   The Good Shepherd has sent you on a mission. He aids your work through the Holy Spirit, so you can teach, inspire, empower and encourage people with the gospel. The epistle James directs us toward Jesus’ protection: James 4:8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. The second sentence lists the reasons we are far from God. If we go near to the Shepherd, we will put aside those obstacles to be safe in his exceptional peace.
   Trust God. Amid life’s ongoing turmoil, strive to live in peace. Expect the Lord’s Good Shepherd leading. Be confident, knowing the holy God invites you to be near in heart, mind and soul to him. God has called you into a remarkable relationship with him. Know he is protecting you forever.