Title: John 18:1–11
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John 18:1–11
When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.” This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.” Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” (ESV)
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In this sermon, Jed Gillis delves into the profound moment in John 18:1-11 where Jesus, fully aware of His impending betrayal and suffering, steps forward with authority and love. This passage marks the beginning of Jesus' darkest hour—the Passion—highlighting His ultimate sacrifice for humanity. Gillis explores the setting in the Garden of Gethsemane, drawing parallels to the Garden of Eden, where humanity first fell.
The sermon emphasizes Jesus’ divine knowledge and His deliberate act of stepping forward to meet His captors. By stating, "I am he," Jesus not only identifies Himself but also demonstrates His divine nature, causing those who came to arrest Him to fall back. This act reveals both Jesus' power and His willingness to fulfill His mission.
Gillis contrasts Jesus’ divine heroism with Peter's misguided attempt to defend Him by force. Peter's action symbolizes a misunderstanding of Jesus' purpose—to drink the cup of wrath meant for humanity. The sermon underscores that Jesus' path to victory is one of sacrificial love and submission to God’s will, not human force.
Ultimately, Gillis calls listeners to recognize that, like Peter, we are not sidekicks but beneficiaries of Jesus’ saving work. He invites us to trust in Christ’s sacrificial love and step forward in faith to display His glory and love in our lives. Through this narrative, we see a savior who steps forward with divine authority and love, offering eternal life to all who believe.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
