Ear theology

April 9, 2021 (Friday)

 

Let’s frame today’s lesson with an understatement from John, “Judas brought a company of soldiers and some guards from the chief priests and Pharisees. They came there carrying lanterns, torches, and weapons.” [John 18:3 CEB] This “band” of soldiers needs context.

 

A Roman “company” (“band” etc..) a tenth of a legion. This hunting party was between 800 to 600 soldiers. If there were auxiliaries (likely since it was Passover) then there may have been 1,000 extra troops (archers, cavalry, and spearmen). Each soldier served for 25 years. It is a misunderstanding to see them as a disorganized “rabble.” Let’s just say, Jesus is being hunted by a well-organized, well trained, well equipped Marine quality soldiers. My suspicion is they were expecting a serious fight.

 

When Jesus questioned them about who they were looking for they said “Jesus the Nazarene” (Jesus of Nazareth). Jesus gave them a two word answer. “When he said, “I Am,” they shrank back and fell to the ground.” [John 18:6 CEB] We should never think that at any point in this ordeal from arrest through crucifixion Jesus was helpless. The simple truth of who Jesus is turned these soldiers to jelly.

 

Peter must have taken some courage from this event. “Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.)” [John 18:10 CEB] There are a couple of points to make. If the Greek is to be taken seriously, the word translated “struck” is a downward chopping motion. It seem strange he only cut off the ear without hitting the shoulder.

 

The other thing to note is John is the writer of our story. The other Gospel writers did not give us Malchus’ name. Please notice, John (and family) was a friend of the High Priest (and family). John personally knew Malchus, and maybe considered him a friend.

 

Jesus rebukes Peter, but to get the full impact of the situation let’s listen in as Matthew tells his side of the story. “Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels?” [Matthew 26:53 ESV] Let’s put this in perspective. One tenth of a Roman legion against 12 legions… That’s not going to be much of a fight.

 

While Jesus was concerned about the safety of His disciples, there is another thing that happened before His arrest that must factor into today’s lesson. “Jesus responded, “Stop! No more of this!” He touched the slave’s ear and healed him.” [Luke 22:51 CEB] Not only does Jesus want to preserve His followers, but Jesus also wants to demonstrate mercy to His “enemies.”

 

Every time the high priest saw his servant Malchus, he had to look at the ear. He had to face the fact that while he inspired hate, Jesus demonstrated love and mercy. Yikes! Jesus is not the enemy of His enemies. We stand ready to fight. Jesus lays His life down for us… while we acting like His enemies.

 

“If we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son while we were still enemies, now that we have been reconciled, how much more certain is it that we will be saved by his life?” [Romans 5:10 CEB] So next time you look in the mirror and see your ear…