Read the Word:
Matthew 26:47-56
Meditate on the Word:
This week we have been looking at the different gospel accounts of the arrest of Jesus. As is often the case with the gospels, each of these witnesses brings details that some of the others do not. Like Mark, Matthew does not name Peter as the disciple who cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant. Matthew, however, is more detailed in Jesus’ rebuke of Peter. He records Jesus’ words, “Do you not think that I can call on my Father, and He will provide me here and now more than twelve legions of angels?” Jesus did not need Peter with a sword if He wanted out of the situation. Jesus also reminded Peter that the Scriptures said that it must happen this way.
Of course, we know that Jesus does not need us to defend Him. Not only does He not need us to physically defend Him, but He does not need us to defend Him with emotional or academic arguments. Those arguments do not convince those who will not believe. They may reinforce the faith of the believer, but for someone to become convinced, the Holy Spirit has to be working in their life.
Pray the Word:
Thank the Lord for His wonderful plan of salvation. Ask Him to work in the heart of someone who does not believe.
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