Devotional Reflection Based on the Incident of Peter Cutting Off Malchus's Ear: “Then one of those standing near drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.” ( Mark 14:47, Today's Korean Version ) 1. Identifying the People Involved: The person who stood beside Jesus and drew the sword was Simon Peter . The servant of the high priest was named Malchus . “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 ) 2. Jesus' Response to Peter's Action: (a) Jesus said: “Permit even this.” ( Luke 22:51, KJV: “Suffer ye thus far”; RSV: “No more of this” ) The Greek words clarify this: “ἕως τούτου” (“heōs toutou”) = “up to this point” or “even this” “ἐᾶτε” (“eate”) = “allow it,” “let it be,” “leave it alone” Therefore, Jesus is essentially saying: “Let them do what they are doing. Do not resist any further.” “If ...
About brotherly love [1 Thessalonians 4:9-12] What if we don’t regard others important but exalt ourselves more? I am sure we will be arrogant and look down on others and despise them. John Calvin said: ‘Just as each person doesn’t regard the others as important and exalts himself and the contempt from his proud heart is the most hindrance to the unity of brotherhood, when each person has humble heart that respect each other, the love grows the best.’ Look at Romans 12:10 – “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” We should love each other, honor one another, and respect each other. In doing so, the church will become more and more firmly established as a community of love, shines the light of love to the neighbors and glorify God. In 1 Thessalonians 4:9, Apostle Paul talks to the Thessalonian church saints about brotherly love. I want...