“The Arrest” #1

When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly. 1 Peter 2:23

How would you respond if a group of people falsely accused you of a crime and even called the police to have you arrested?  This is exactly what happened to Jesus Christ.  The religious authorities had been watching His every move for years, but previous attempts to seize Him had failed. Now, an insider, Judas, had been contracted to help orchestrate Jesus’ arrest and execution! All the betrayer wanted was 30 pieces of silver, the going price for a slave.  Judas would notify the religious leaders of Jesus’ location, bring them to the spot, identify the Savior with a kiss, and let the soldiers do the rest!

If you've ever been falsely accused, mistreated, or faced undeserved suffering, you will want to pay careful attention to Jesus’ reaction.  As we will see, He left behind an example of how to respond to unjust suffering, particularly when we cannot change our situation.

1. The Arrest (18:1-12a)
2. The Trials (18:12b-14, 19-24)
3. Our Reaction to Undeserved Suffering (1 Pet.2:19-23)

Takeaways:

1. Do not seek revenge.
2. Give the situation over to the Lord.
3. Realize that He will judge justly in His time.