“TAKING REAL RISKS”

10 “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.)”

John 18:10

It's easy to identify as a Christian, especially when life is nice and dandy. But how willing are we to keep proclaiming Christ when our safety is put at risk?

In our last blog, we learned that each one of the sheep is valuable in the Good Shepherd's sight.

Verse 10 records Peter’s actions toward the opposition. With a sword, he strikes the high priest’s servant’s right ear. He probably is to prove that he is prepared to die for Jesus (Matthew 26:33-35). Or he simply thinks that he can perhaps save Jesus or at least fight for Him. One might ask, “Why does Peter have a sword, in the first place?” It’s likely because Jesus told them to have one (Luke 22:36):

36 He said to them, “But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.”

Luke 22:36

There are at least two ways to understand this verse: (1) to take it literally, which would mean Jesus is allowing the disciples to carry swords for self-defense purposes, or (2) it can be taken figuratively; Jesus is telling the disciples will have to face a dangerous future. The items He mentioned could be articles used for protection, not necessarily for aggression.

Regardless of the interpretation, one thing is for sure: Jesus does not want the disciples to take these matters by way of the sword. Hence, His rebuke of Peter. The Apostle’s courage may seem admirable, but undoubtedly, it was not a good decision. First, he attacked a non-soldier. Second, he struck from behind, which was not fair by any means. Moreover, this was more of a spiritual than a physical battle.

It’s quite interesting that John mentions the High Priest’s servant’s name. Some believe that John might have had connections to those in the household of the High Priest. It’s also possible that Malchus eventually became a Christian (which isn’t impossible because he saw Jesus’ authority and healing power).

We may condemn Peter for his impromptu John Rambo act, but we shouldn’t ignore his courage—at least in this scene. Of all the disciples, Peter was the only one who was brave enough to show tangible support for the Lord. It might have been a rash, daredevil kind of stunt, but we can’t afford to shut our eyes to his impressive valor. It’s no wonder why Peter was the first person Jesus sought to meet right after His Resurrection!

Our commitment to Christ may sometimes involve situations where we have to face physical risk—especially in this day and age. The enemy is working tirelessly to persecute the church. But my friend, when push comes to shove, how ready are you to defend your Lord?

Pursue the Savior today!