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What did Jesus say to Peter after he cut off the ear?

Published in Jesus's Words 2 mins read

After Simon Peter impulsively cut off the ear of the high priest's slave, Malchus, Jesus directly instructed him, "Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup which the Father has given me?"

This pivotal moment, recorded in the Biblical account of Jesus's arrest, highlights His immediate response to an act of violence intended to defend Him.

The Incident: Peter's Impulsive Act

During the betrayal and arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, when a detachment of soldiers and officials from the chief priests and Pharisees came to seize Him, Simon Peter drew his sword. In an attempt to prevent Jesus's capture, Peter struck out, severing the right ear of Malchus, a slave belonging to the high priest.

  • Who: Simon Peter
  • Action: Drew a sword and cut off the right ear.
  • Victim: Malchus, the high priest's slave.

Jesus's Direct Command and Teaching

Jesus's response to Peter's aggressive act was immediate and profound, serving both as a command and a teaching moment:

  1. "Put your sword into its sheath": This first part of Jesus's statement was a clear directive to cease the use of violence. It underscored a fundamental principle of non-resistance and rejection of physical force in the face of His impending arrest and suffering. It commanded Peter to sheathe his weapon, emphasizing a path of peace over conflict.
  2. "shall I not drink the cup which the Father has given me?": This rhetorical question reveals Jesus's deep understanding and acceptance of the divine will. The "cup" metaphorically refers to the suffering, trial, and ultimate sacrifice that Jesus was destined to endure according to God's plan. By asking this, Jesus affirmed His willingness to submit to His Father's will, even unto death, rather than resisting it through force. It signifies His acceptance of His destiny and the predetermined path of redemption.

This powerful declaration demonstrated Jesus's commitment to His mission and His unwavering obedience to the Father, even in the most challenging circumstances. It taught His disciples, and generations to come, about the nature of His kingdom, which is not advanced or defended by earthly weapons or violence, but through submission, sacrifice, and divine purpose.

For a detailed understanding of this event, you can refer to the Biblical narrative.