“Jesus fully realized all that was going to happen to Him, so He stepped forward to meet them.” John 18:4 (NLT)
Jesus and His disciples have gone off into the garden, a place they had gone often. There the Roman soldiers and temple guards came to find and arrest Jesus. And without any fan fair, Jesus stepped forward. Verse 4 says that Jesus “fully realized ALL that was going to happen.”
Jesus asked, “Who are you looking for?” They replied, “Jesus the Nazarene.” (v. 5) When Jesus told them, I am He,” “they all drew back and fell to the ground.” (v. 6) Did you catch that? when Jesus spoke, there was such power that they “all fell to the ground!”
First, Jesus stepped forward because He knew the time had come for Him to fulfill His purpose. He was aware of the suffering that was to come, yet He stepped forward without any resistance.
Then, in verse 6, He demonstrates His power. He could have wiped them all out and continued on. He chose to go forward and become the sacrifice we all need. He knew God’s plan. He knew the difficulty ahead. And even though He could have stopped them all, He willingly let them arrest Him. He surrendered Himself.
I’m not sure I can find the right words to adequately express what I am understanding here in these couple of verses. I’ve always known that Jesus went willingly to the cross. But, really, He went WILLINGLY! He had the power to stop it all, but He chose Me. He chose suffering and death for my benefit. He said yes to Me and took the punishment I deserve.
This is a truth I’ve always known. But this morning I am gaining a new a deeper revelation of His love for me and for all mankind. I’m in awe of Him. I’m amazed and overwhelmed.
Jesus, thank you for your great love for me. I can’t fully comprehend it all and I don’t feel thank you is enough. I pray that I would live my life walking in your presence and reflecting the grace you have given me. I pray today for a continued awareness of your love for me. Amen.
What is God revealing to you today in chapter 18 of John? Share your insights in the comment section below.