Bitesize Bible Commentary:

Luke

​

----------​----------​----------​----------​----------​

​

Luke 22:47-53

 

Luke describes the betrayal and arrest of Jesus by a group consisting of chief priests, elders and officers of the temple guard and led by Judas Iscariot. During the arrest, Luke states that Peter (John 18:1-14) withdrew his sword (likely a small knife used for practical purposes) and injured a servant of the High Priest by cutting off his ear. In response, Jesus calmed the hostilities by rebuking his disciples, healing the man and submitting to those who had come to arrest him. Jesus also challenged and shamed those present by stating that even though he had taught publicly and among the people they had nevertheless chosen to arrest him privately and when none were watching, which is typical of how darkness operates.

 

Jesus did something highly symbolic by healing the servant of the High Priest. First, Jesus evidenced his mission by showing that he came to save and to heal his enemies. Even those who came to arrest Jesus received his healing touch, and such is the heart of God for all sinners. Second, Jesus removed the evidence that would have been used to condemn Peter (the injured ear). Attacking the servant of the High Priest was akin to attacking the High Priest and was potentially punishable by death. However, Jesus removed the evidence that Peter had committed a crime and thereby freed Peter from the accusations of his enemies. Like Peter, we have acted foolishly and committed many acts of treason against our Creator (the universal sin of humanity condemns us before a holy God). Like Peter, Jesus has interceded for us and removed the evidence or guilt that would have been used to condemn us (Jesus has atoned for our sins). Like Peter, we can now walk away free while Jesus is arrested and taken into captivity (our judgment has been swapped for freedom and redemption in Christ). May we use our freedom in Christ to glorify God and to prepare ourselves and others for the completion of our redemption within the Kingdom of God.

​​

​

​​​