Jesus knew everything that would happen to him. Jesus went out and asked, "Who are you looking for?" The men answered, "Jesus from Nazareth." Jesus said, "I am Jesus." (Judas, the one that turned against Jesus, was standing there with them.) When Jesus said, "I am Jesus," the men moved back and fell to the ground.
— John 18:4-6 NLT
Key Thought
John helps us see that Jesus' rejection and crucifixion was not some horrible accident that occurred because he couldn't prevent it. Jesus is in control. He will protect his disciples. He will make others fall back in fear. He will die on the Cross only because he allows it to happen in order to follow his Father's will and to bring salvation to us. The Cross, along with its agony and ridicule, is made all the more precious for us because Jesus had the ability to stop it from happening, but instead, submitted his will to the will of God and the needs of sinners, like you and me.
Today's Prayer
How can I thank you, dear God, for loving me so much? How can I ever show my appreciation, Lord Jesus, for the price you willingly paid for my sin? Thank you for knowing the cruelty that lay ahead of you and yet bearing it for me. To you, Lord Jesus, belong all glory, honor, and majesty. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
- John 13:1-4
- Hebrews 12:2
- John 19:9-11
About This Devotional
What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.
What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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