Let these men go

I've been reading in John. I came to the arrest of Jesus in John 18. John's description is popular (at least to me) b/c he includes the mystical way Jesus knocks down his captors merely by muttering "I am." (MacArthur estimates that there were probably 500-800 Roman soldiers, temple police and religious elite there for his capture). Then there is always the interesting discussion about the "I am (ego eimi)" and its parallel with EX 3:14.

All that aside, something new astonished me as I read this passage again. After knocking them on their backs with the sword of his mouth (Rev 1:16) Jesus asked a second time "who do you seek (18:7)." They reply again, "Jesus of Nazareth." Notice Christ's response in verse 8, "I told you that I am he. So, if [since] you seek me, let these men go." About to go to the cross and bear God's judgment, Christ intercedes for those who will abandon him in his greatest hour. "Take me to your cross, I am the one you seek, you have no need to punish these men."

The good shepherd runs out to meet the wolves (notice Christ takes the initiative) and stands between them and his flock. Knowing what awaits him, he welcomes the entirety of the hatred of his enemies that none of it might fall upon his beloved.

What a glimpse of Christ's commitment to his people. What an encouragement to know that our shepherd watches over us with such vigilance. How great is our God and savior. Truly, there is no one like him. Thank you, Lord Jesus, that I can be counted among your flock; that you know me and I know you. Only by your grace do I stand behind you, one loved by God, enjoying your protection; rather than before you, one counted as your enemy, enduring your justice. You are the gracious God indeed!

John 12:11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.