What Jesus Did! 'Let These Others Go!' — John 18:7-9

Saturday, November 7, 2026

Once more [Jesus] asked [the soldiers and guards with Judas], "Who are you looking for?"

And again they replied, "Jesus the Nazarene."

"I told you that I AM he," Jesus said. "And since I am the one you want, let these others go." He did this to fulfill his own statement: "I did not lose a single one of those you have given me."

— John 18:7-9 NLT

Key Thought

Imagine being the target of hatred, jealousy, and murderous intent yet still protecting those closest to you. Jesus' protection of his disciples during his arrest, trial, and crucifixion is a great reminder of his love for us. In fact, in the protection of the disciples, we can see our own eternal protection. Jesus was willing to pay the horrible price of the cross to ensure our protection from sin and death. He said to Satan, "Let these others go!" Then he paid the price for our sin so we can be set free!

Today's Prayer

Gracious God, I praise you for Jesus' sacrificial love for his disciples and also for me. My words are inadequate to say how I feel. Jesus, my appreciation for your wounds that protect and heal me is deeper than words. I trust that the Holy Spirit will communicate the emotions that are beyond my ability to express so that you will receive my praise with the depth and the passion with which I offer it to you this day and that my life will be continual praise to you. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of John 18:7-9 NLT — "I did not lose a single one of those you have given me."

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

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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