A Tale of Two Responses

Showcasing the Lordship of Christ

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness...”

Charles Dickens began his well known work, A Tale of Two Cities with this opening line.

This book presents an age of radical opposites that took place across the English Channel between France and England. The tale presents two different responses of those whose lives were intertwined during the French Revolution.

In a similar way, in the 18th chapter of the Gospel of John, John presents his readers with the true account of the intertwined lives of two men who are presented with the same life event…. but respond in two very different ways. Would you open your bibles to John 18?

A few weeks ago, as we finished studying through chapter 17 of John’s Gospel we also completed our survey of the events that took place in an Upper Room. This Sunday as well as the last two weeks in November, we are going to shift our focus from the conversation Jesus had in the Upper Room to the Passion that He displayed as he makes his way to the Cross.

As we come to chapters 18-19, we are presented with the familiar event of the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Christ. Over the next 3 sermons we will see Jesus’ Passion on Display, I’d like for you to consider these chapters as presenting a drama which takes place on the stage of God’s plan of redemption in order to point us to Jesus.

As we work through chapters 18-19, Jesus’ Passion will be put on display through His Divine Lordship, His Sovereign Royalty, and His Atoning Deliverance.

As we look at the beginning of chapter 18 together, the first act begins and the curtain is rising on a dark night… the darkest night in human history… the supper that had taken place in the upper room is finished… Jesus’ prayer for his followers is done… and John presents us with this next scene highlighting the Lordship of Christ in verse 1-3.

John 18:1 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.

“the brook Kidron”… There is some near symbolism here. A drain ran from the temple altar down to the Kidron ravine to drain away the blood of the sacrifices. This time of year, there would have been more than 200,000 lambs slain. So, when Jesus and his disciples crossed the Kidron, it would have been red with the blood of all the sacrifices. John laces this divine poetry into his account, foreshadowing what was about to take place and illustrating that the events that were about to take place were not beyond God’s control.... everything was happening according to plan.

John 18:2–3 ESV

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.

The years of Jesus’ ministry are approaching their climax. Judas has assembled an army of soldiers and chief priests.... oddly enough Jews and Gentiles have been assembled with the taste of blood already on their tongues. Looking like the mob going to lynch Frankenstein with their torches and pitch forks... in the minds and hearts of the chief priests… Jesus’ conviction and death is merely a matter of logistics.

As this mob stands before Jesus and his disciples, with confidence, Jesus demonstrates what His Lordship looks like in the face of darkness. With divine grace, Jesus illustrates the confidence we can have… when we fully embrace Him as Lord by faith.

I. The Confidence of Lordship

John 18:4–5 ESV

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.

Jesus is faced with the reality that this mob is coming to arrest him. Yet he is cool, calm, and collected. How is that? He knows what is getting ready to happen.

It is interesting what John does not record. If you read the other Gospel accounts we are able to get a broader perspective of what happened that night. As we read John 18, we have to understand that there is a gap between verses 1 and 2 that Matthew, Mark, and Luke help to fill in.

Matthew 26, Mark 14, and Luke 22 give us a better understanding of that night, when an unspeakable horror overcame Christ in the Garden when he wrestled with the reality of what was getting ready to take place. Jesus experienced intense agony and sorrow. Matthew records Jesus saying “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:37-38). Mark records that Jesus fell to the ground and repeatedly prayed “that if possible the hour might pass from him” (Mark 14:35). According to how the text is written, Jesus apparently was in such agony that he would cast himself to the ground, then stand up, then again fall to the ground while he was praying. Luke tells us in Luke 22:44 that Jesus’ agony was so great that he actually began to sweat blood.

What does Christ’s agony teach us?

It teaches us that Jesus knew exactly what was going to happen and he knew exactly what he would have to go through to pay the penalty for our sins. The realization of this horror is what crushed him.... But, what is interesting is that John doesn’t showcase Jesus’ horror of what was to come.... NO, in these verses, John showcases the divine resolve of Christ as he prepares to endure the agony that lies ahead. As John shares with us the events that took place in the garden, he wants us to see the resolve of Jesus’ Lordship as Jesus steps forward to endure the agony that he must... in order to fulfill God’s plan of Salvation.

The writer of Hebrews gives us a glimpse into the resolve of Christ when he wrote in chapter 12, verse 2: “… Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame...”

It was Christ’s joy to be resolved to agonize for you..... It was Christ’s joy to suffer for your sin.... It was Christ’s joy… to endure the agonizing separation from God… so that you don’t have to.

Jesus has already agonized about what was to come… and had resolved that it must be done.

Jesus standing before this cohort of sword carrying soldiers.... doesn’t run… doesn’t hide… doesn’t argue..... He simply steps forward and speaks.

John 18:6–8 ESV

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.”

A question that many people ask is… why did the soldiers fall down when Jesus said, “I am he”?

Some people say that it was from some great moral force, that caused the soldiers fall back. Some say that it is because the Romans soldiers had some kind of fear of Jesus. The reality is, the Roman soldiers probably knew little to nothing about Jesus.

What I think that John is presenting here is the sheer power of Jesus’ Lordship. Jesus answers the mod in the style of deity.... using a divine title.

What Jesus actually said was… I AM. Jesus’ answer expresses his divine origin, pointing the reader back to the burning bush where God said, “I am who I am” (Ex. 3:14).

One author suggested that “Jesus’ response was an exercise of the very power by which he calmed the seas, stilled the winds, and healed the sick.” (Hughes).

Jesus is the very center of history… the very axis on which world history revolves ..... in that pivital moment when Jesus verbalized HIs holy and divine name… I AM.... Yahweh… the mob of men were forced backward by the power of Jesus’ divine name.

John is presenting us with Power of Jesus’ Lordship.

When you step back and view this event from the perspective of God’s plan of salvation… the mob of soldiers didn’t arrest Jesus.... Actually, Jesus arrested them!

Not long ago Jesus had stated in John 10:17-18:

“I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes if rom me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again.”

Even through the event of Jesus’ arrest… the power and authority of Christ’s Lordship is being highlighted.

Probably still shaking from after affects of the power of Christs deity.... as these sword wielding soldiers pick themselves up from the ground, Jesus asks them again in verses 7-8:

John 18:7–8 ESV

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.”

In the midst of his divinely determined arrest.... while displaying his resolve, power, and authority as Lord..... Jesus continues to put the needs of others first..... and demonstrates the compassion of his Lordship..... caring for the well-being of those who are under His sovereign care.

This group of soldiers probably had intended on arresting Jesus’ entire group of followers. Mark 14:51 tells us that during the arrest event a young man who was with them was seized and ended up running away naked!

In the midst of all that was going on, Jesus protected all of his followers. Even when Peter drew his sword and cut off Malchus’ ear… Jesus had compassion on all those who were his and protected them.

Even in Christ’s final moments.... he powerfully, graciously, and mercifully put the needs of others first.

As this arrest scene continues we are told in verses 12-14 that:

John 18:12–14 ESV

So the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. It was Caiaphas who had advised the Jews that it would be expedient that one man should die for the people.

John 18:19–24 ESV

The high priest then questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. Jesus answered him, “I have spoken openly to the world. I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why do you ask me? Ask those who have heard me what I said to them; they know what I said.” When he had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” Jesus answered him, “If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?” Annas then sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.

As John re-tells the corrupt and cruel event of Jesus’ arrest, He is relaying to us the Restraint and Meekness of Jesus’ Lordship.

Do you know what meekness means? Sometimes we confuse meekness and weakness. That phrase, Jesus lowly meek and mild comes to mind right?

Meekness actually means strength under control. (Illustration)

At any time Jesus could have stopped the proceedings. At any time, Jesus could have struck them down. At any time, Jesus could have called 10,000 angels to stand witness for His character and glory.

Jesus could have called the same myriad of angels that 33 years ago had heralded his birth to come and stand up for his defense… but, he didn’t. He absorbed the blows of the guards. He took the insults of the false witnesses. He endured the corruption of the courts.... because he had an eternal perspective in view.

Jesus took the abuse he was given… even though he could have stopped it, restrained himself so that he could accomplish the will of God.... and become the propitiation for your sin.... (show image: propitiation is that picture of Jesus absorbing God’s wrath on your behalf).

As John explains the events which took place on that dark night..... He is helping to show us the reality that Jesus is Lord. Our responsibility is to acknowledge that reality and submit to it.

At this point, all of us need to search our hearts and ask.... have I truly submitted to Jesus as Lord?

For those of us who are born again and have truly submitted to the Lordship of Christ.... can have the resolve of knowing that God’s plan is being accomplished… even if it means going to through the pain and the agony of the process. In the depths of the darkest nights… Jesus is Lord!

We are filled with the power of Christ as His Holy Spirit indwells us and enables us to accomplish His will in the world. In times of incredible joy and the deepest of sorrows.... Jesus is Lord!

We are empowered with the meekness of Christ… as we exercise restraint in every situation… knowing that God has the power to overcome… and will overcome all things and be victorious in His timing. In the shadow of seemingly overcome-able odds… and the greatest times of indecision... when you absolutely do not understand why things are happening.... Jesus is Lord!

As the drama of Christ’s passion unfolds, John wants everyone who reads the words that he pens to know and embrace the truth that Jesus alone is Lord of all. He is the one to whom we belong… He is the one to whom we bow.

There is great joy and certainty in the truth of Jesus’ Lordship. But there is also a great deal of uncertainty and heartache in the minds of those who doubt.

With the time we have left, let’s briefly look at the other tale John tells… the cut scenes that are sprinkled throughout this first act of the drama of Christ’s passion. As this divine drama proceeds, two responses are contrasted. One of resolve, power, authority and restraint.... and another demonstrating the hazards doubt and uncertainty.

II. The Uncertainty of Doubt

As each scene of Christ’s passion progresses, there is a cut scene in which we are shown the response of one of His disciples. Peter, the lead disciple,… Peter, the bold spokesman,… Peter the water walker..... That very same Peter.... is faced with the reality of Jesus’ situation. As the drama of Christ’s passion progresses, Peter’s uncertainty and doubt are reflected.

As the mob of soldiers led by Judas talk with Jesus, the scene cuts to Peter’s reaction to the situation.

As Jesus declares His Lordship by stating that these things are happening to fulfill God’s plan… and that none of his disciples will be lost… Peter reacts in verse 10:

John 18:10 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.)

While Jesus demonstrates His resolve as Lord.... Peter demonstrates that his trust is in his sword...

At this moment, Peter’s confidence is not in the Lord… but in his sword. Jesus rebukes him for bearing arms.... and reminds Peter of the plan that God is at this very moment working to be accomplished....

Most of us applaud Peter for his bold desire to protect Jesus. Most of us would cheer at this point in the drama because the good guys get at least one good blow in for Jesus.

Picture the tension.... Malchus standing in shock… blood pouring through his fingers.... the sound of a hundred swords in unison being drawn from their sheaths....

Some say that at this moment… Peter was rebuked, not for attempting to protect Christ… but for assisting in the potential destruction of the church.

Imagine what could have happened if Jesus had not stepped in and healed Malchus’ ear and diffused the situation. Peter most assuredly would been arrested… or more likely struck down for raising his hand against the roman soldiers. If that had happened.... we would have no book of acts.... we would have no Peter to lead the apostles…

But, Jesus sovereignly steps in, rebukes Peter… reminding him of his words … “shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?”

While Jesus is expressing his resolve as Lord.... Peter is contrasted by demonstrating his doubt in Jesus’ sovereignty… in His Lordship.

After defusing the situation by healing the ear of the servant, Jesus, the Lord of heaven and earth allows the Jews to bind and arrest him. As this scene fades to black... Jesus is being led to the house of Annas, the father in law of Caiaphas the High Priest.

As the stage brightens, a new scene is introduced in verse 15 as.....

John 18:15–18 ESV

Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in. The servant girl at the door said to Peter, “You also are not one of this man’s disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” Now the servants and officers had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter also was with them, standing and warming himself.

As Jesus showcases his meekness… power under control....confidently standing trial… being mocked and abused for empty charges.... Peter stands by the fire... emotions out of control… broken hearted… full of doubt.... uncertain of all that he has believed.... and is given yet another chance to respond as those who are warming themselves around the fire with him ask in verse 25,

John 18:25–27 ESV

Now Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. So they said to him, “You also are not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it and said, “I am not.” One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Did I not see you in the garden with him?” Peter again denied it, and at once a rooster crowed.

Broken.... heart broken.... humiliated.... these are all words that probably describe Peter’s emotional and mental state at this point.

His doubt in Jesus’ lordship and his uncertainty in Jesus’ sovereign plan had led him to react in a way that broke his heart.

Peter’s confidence in Jesus Lordship directly affected his actions and responses.

Conclusion/ Application:

Why did all this happen? Why did John record this first act in the Drama of Jesus’ passion?

- To highlight that Jesus is Lord of all things. —> when we truly submit to the Lordship of Christ we gain His eternal perspective, His resolve to see God’s Will done, His power to do God’s Will as the Holy Spirit leads, guides, and grows us. We are comforted by his protection as we serve… being assured that nothing will happen to us that is outside of His control. When Jesus is truly Lord of your life.... Jesus’ compassion and meekness are reflected in you and how you respond to the world around you.

Jesus’ responses is contrasted with Peter’s:

- to show us that confusion about Jesus’ Lordship will result in doubt and uncertainty. Peter’s responses show that while He had believed in Christ… when the test of his faith came… his doubt, fear, and uncertainty led him to the point of denial.

What does the doubt and uncertainty of Peter teach us?

- It teaches us that our actions are a direct reflection of our confidence in and submission to the Lordship of Christ.

- A truth for us to glean from Peter’s response is that our doubt and uncertainty can be overcome.

Jesus knows your doubts and uncertainties. He can handle them. Jesus knew Peter would doubt and deny him. Yet, Peter is still greately used by the Lord to help establish Jesus’ church.

What changed? Peter’s doubt and uncertainty were eventually submitted to the Lordship of Christ.

When we truly embrace Jesus as Lord… and place our absolute trust and confidence in Him… we don’t have to doubt. We don’t have to be uncertain.

Not because we have all the answers. We don’t. We are not God. But, we will be submitting to the One who does have all the answers, power, and ability to accomplish His will in our lives.

When the curtain rose, this act began in the darkness of night. Yes, John helps to encourage his audience by framing this portion of Jesus’ Passion Drama with a few bookends. John begins and ends this act of Jesus’ drama by telling us that this all has happened to fulfill what God had decreed. Look at verses 9...

John 18:9 ESV

This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.”

and then at verse 32.

John 18:32 ESV

This was to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken to show by what kind of death he was going to die.

As the drama of Jesus’ Passion on Display continues, we will see this phrase again.

Main Idea:

— Our confidences in the Lordship of Christ drives our actions and how we live our lives —

Where are you placing your confidence?

In what is your confidence placed? Better question, In whom is your confidence placed?

If your confidence and security is in your president. He will fail you.

If your confidence and security is in your pastor. He will fail you.

If your confidence and security is in your diagnosis. You will be disappointed.

What is our response?

Truly and whole-heartedly submit to Christ as Lord.

Have confidence in His plans for you.

If your confidence and security is in the fact that Jesus is Lord.... then you will never be disappointed but will gain the benefit of His resolve, power, compassion, confidence, protection, and strength.

How is the fact that Jesus is Lord… impacting how you think, talk, act, and live?

Here is a good test of how you view the Lordship of Christ. Answer this question:

We just had an election. Let’s say that your candidate lost.

Will you be able to stand up in respect of the new president when he is inaugurated? Will you be able to speak respectfully of the office, even if you may not agree with the man? Will you be plunged into doubt and uncertainty because of your lack of confidence in the man and his perspective?

Will you be able to daily pray for the new president, asking God to help him to be successful in his job?

Christian, I hope that your thoughts, words, actions, and life reflects the truth that no matter who sits in the oval office… Jesus is on the throne!

Our confidence must be in Jesus as Lord. Nothing is outside of His sovereign control. Remember, as you go through times of life that you might not understand … Jesus is Lord! and all these things are happening to fulfill what God has planned.