John 18. Our text today begins with the betrayal and arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Perhaps this part of the narrative is familiar to you, as it is often read annually in the days before Easter? Please do not be in too much of a hurry as you read, there is always more to discover in the living Word.

Judas the betrayer, a band of soldiers, and some officers from the chief priests and Pharisees go to the garden in the middle of the night with lanterns, torches, and weapons. They are looking for Jesus. Did you catch the symbolism – they come in the darkness, hunting for the light of the world. Nicodemus also came to Jesus under cover of darkness (John 3), but he was looking for spiritual truth and enlightenment. This mob – though they carried lanterns and torches – was looking to extinguish the light of the world.

Jesus starts the interaction with the armed mob, asking “Whom do you seek?” When they reply, “Jesus of Nazareth”, Jesus responds, “I AM he”. “When Jesus said to them “I AM he”, they drew back and fell to the ground.” (John 18:6) I do not remember noticing that phrase in the text previously! Jesus replies I AM, and everyone falls to the ground.

Boom. Jesus declares his identity loud and clear – I AM. The same I AM of the Old Testament, the name of God Almighty that the Jews never said aloud. I imagine it kind of echoed across the Kidron Valley like a sound wave, knocking people off their feet. There was some kind of revelation of his power and authority here, causing men to fall to their knees, as often happened when God revealed himself and spoke to people.

Jesus does not hide or accept his arrest as some shameful thing – no, he is declaring his identity and standing strong. He remains in control of the whole situation, turning to the leaders of the armed mob and instructing them to let these men go. He is caring for his followers, ensuring that none of them are swept up in the arrest.

Jesus just knocked everyone to the ground with a word, but Peter (oh Peter!) draws his sword to do his part in saving the day. Jesus goes willingly with his captors, knowing this is how his story unfolds. For Peter it is a long and difficult night where he denies knowing Jesus three times.

This is a difficult night for Jesus, yet he remains calm and in control. If you have ever had a terrible night, or a whole season, this is a great reminder! Jesus remains in control and protects his followers (something he prayed about in John 17). Perhaps we can learn from Peter? No sword is necessary to bring about the will of God.