In the Garden

John 18:1-11.

Jesus now concludes His final, “Upper Room Discourse” teaching for the Disciples.

One of the topics of this weeks episode will be:

We will consider the historical context of Jesus' declaration 'I am He.'

At that time, to claim such authority could mean certain death. Yet, Jesus walked willingly into the jaws of danger.

This reflects His unwavering commitment to us. Today, when we’re faced with trials, we can remember that Jesus affirmed His identity boldly—just as He calls us to embrace ours with the same confidence and conviction.

This is in direct line with Exodus 3.14

Exodus 3:14 ESV

God said to Moses, “I am who I am.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel: ‘I am has sent me to you.’ ”

In the Gospel of John, Jesus refers to Himself in this manner several times-

Each having a dramatic effect on those that heard it-

Mainly the Pharisees and other religious leaders of the Temple.

We will examine the much different response in the Garden this time.

What we can learn and apply from this passage is this:

The enduring truth, that, just as Jesus reveals and declares His divine authority here...

We can lean on and find peace in our difficult times, in knowing that His position of divine authority has never wavered and is just as certain and secure now as it was then.

So let’s begin as Jesus concludes His last teaching Discourse to the Disciples...

1- EYES WIDE OPEN

John 18:1–4 ESV

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?”

Once again, Jesus shows us that He is control of the situation.

Knowing full well, that Judas had gone to the Temple leaders to betray Him, Jesus could have gone anywhere else with the Disciples.

Instead He went to the Garden across the Kidron Valley- Gethsemane

Where he had met with and taught the Disciples frequently.

He knew the place, The Disciples knew the place AND Judas knew the place as well-

Jesus was not hiding from his fate- He was, in fact, directing every facet of it.

John also mentions something none of the other Gospel writers mention.

John 18:4 ESV

Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?”

Jesus, proactively met His accusers head on. He approached them.

Knowing all that was about to happen to Him, our Lord and Saviour met the challenge with courage and authority.

Showing all believers that we have no reason to hide in the shadows or cower in fear when met with opposition today.

Jesus was and is the Son of God- Yes, He held all authority in His hands.

And we have the Holy Spirit- The Third person of the Trinity- Indwelling in our Souls.

Imagine If we were to only remain sure and steady in our faith, resting not in our own abilities, but in the Sovereign Authority of the Son of God, we, too could face our opposition from a position of strength and authority- Not in weakness and fear.

I encourage everyone listening today to rest in that Peace that comes from trusting in our Saviour-

Who has already faced the worst of trials on our behalf and for all of Humanity’s redemption.

In summary, we see Jesus taking control of a chaotic scene and confronting the issue head on...

Now lets look at where that control and authority comes from.

2- “I AM He!”

John 18:5–7 ESV

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.”

As with God’s self-identifying I AM that I AM revelation to Moses at the Burning Bush in Exodus, Jesus, again uses this phrase, as He has done numerous times throughout Johns Gospel.

This same “I AM” phrase is used over and over in the Old and New Testament as a Declaration from God of His Sovereignty over all of Creation.

In our past studies in John’s Gospel, it has usually brought about anger and ridicule from the Jewish religious leaders-

Often with accusations of Blasphemy and being of the Devil. Always directed at Jesus

It caught the attention of the people in the crowds- adding impact to their questions of who is this man, and is it that He teaches with such authority?

Here the Divine power and authority of the I AM statement, confronts the Soldiers and Temple leaders and drives them to their knees.

I know, personally that in the most chaotic moments of my life, when everything felt like it was spinning out of control- When I felt like the very breath of life itself was being squeezed out of me...

The only thing I could do is whisper the name above all other names, “Jesus”

And an overwhelming sense of Peace and calm instantly rushed over me, bringing my Spirit in line with the great I AM.

All the chaos and confusion simply vanished and any fear and doubt just faded away.

Acts 17:28 ESV

for “ ‘In him we live and move and have our being...”

What a comfort in knowing the promise that as long as we stay in obedience with Christ, His name, alone commands and controls all situations that we may face.

So they men tell Jesus, again, they are looking for Jesus of Nazareth…

And we continue-

3- Assurance and Authority Continued

John 18:8–9 ESV

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.”

Still in control- Even the angry crowd, with full intention of arresting Jesus is still being directed by the one they seek to confine.

Jesus’ concern for the Disciples is well placed, as the soldiers, would have, most likely arrest them as well, in their frenzy.

Jesus had promised that not a single one of the Disciples- Excepting Judas- would be lost.

The mob, in their own ignorance- Helps Jesus fulfill His own words by releasing the Disciples to go free.

While facing the mob he is, at the same time protecting His sheep, just as He has taught them- The Good Shepherd willing to lay down His life for His flock.

In this moment the Parable is being lived out in real time before the Disciples.

This is the same assurance that we can hold secure in today.

Jesus has never lost one of His believers- He will always keep His sheep safe from harm.

He is always looking after us with concern and compassion.

Even when we make, even the most grievous of mistakes, as we will see next.

4- DIVINE PURPOSE AND HUMAN REACTION

John 18:10–11 ESV

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?”

Peter, having brought a sword to a prayer meeting, once again, does what he feels compelled to do… But gets it wrong, again.

What we have here, is the conflict between Divine Purpose and Human Reaction.

Peter feels the need to defend his Messiah-

Yet Jesus has a Divine mission to complete- And Jesus is in total control.

Jesus is on a collision course with His Divine Destiny, and simply will not be stopped, even by one of his most trusted followers.

Jesus’ rebuke to Peter is even soft and calm. No ranting or shouting or belittling of impetuous Peter...

Jesus simply tells Peter, put away your sword- now is not the time.

In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus even heals the servants ear.

Compassion for His own followers in keeping them safe, and compassion for servant who was simple doing what he was told by the high priest. He certainly didn’t deserve to have his ear cut off for doing what the misguided Priests ordered him to do.

All of this demonstrates for us the totality of Christ’ commitment in obedience to God the Father.

At the same time, we also see the depth of His love for all of humanity.

So in closing today, some things to reflect on this week:

Whether at home, or work or in the church, you may struggle with feelings of inadequacy, unsure of how to be a follower of Christ effectively.

Remember that Jesus proclaimed 'I AM He,' affirming His active presence in your life. Seek out opportunities to serve based on your unique gifts and passions.

Join a ministry that resonates with you or volunteer at events. When self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself that Jesus empowers you to contribute. Trust in His authority to equip you and let His purpose shine through your efforts.

Take some time this week to reflect on the significance of Jesus' claim of 'I AM.'

During an uncertain time, this proclamation served as a powerful reminder of His control over chaos.

By recognizing and embracing His authority, we gain comfort and assurance that He reigns over our lives today, challenging us to trust completely in His power.

And finally, some questions to ponder:

How can Jesus’s acceptance of the cup He was given guide your understanding of submitting to God’s will?

What does Jesus’ calmness in the face of betrayal teach you about handling your own setbacks?

What steps can you take to trust in Jesus’ authority during stressful times in your life?