The Last Supper
At this, one of Jesus’ companions drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear. Matthew 26:51 · Berean Standard Bible
One of Jesus' companions pulls out a sword and cuts off the ear of the high priest's servant. He is trying to protect Jesus the only way he knows how.
This disciple (Peter, according to John's Gospel) is doing what he promised — fighting for Jesus. But Jesus never asked anyone to fight with swords.
The narrator describes the chaotic moment when a disciple lashes out with a weapon.
The impulse is understandable: someone he loves is being arrested, and he acts. But violence is not the answer Jesus came to give.
An unnamed companion of Jesus (identified as Peter in John 18:10) draws a sword and strikes the high priest's servant, severing his ear in an act of misguided defense.
The servant is named Malchus in John 18:10. Only Luke 22:51 records that Jesus healed the ear. The act reveals the disciples' continued misunderstanding of Jesus' mission as non-violent.
The narrator describes a disciple's violent intervention during the arrest.
One disciple finally acts on his pledge to defend Jesus — but with a sword rather than prayer, demonstrating how profoundly they have missed the nature of Jesus' kingdom.
49Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.
50“Friend,” Jesus replied, “do what you came for.”
51At this, one of Jesus’ companions drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.
52“Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him. “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword.
53Are you not aware that I can call on My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels?
Read all of Matthew 26 — Bread broken. Wine poured. A betrayal predicted. The longest night in history begins around a table.
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