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 ...
“If God is for us” (5) [Romans 8:31-34] Look at Romans 8:33-34: “Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? …” The purpose of God's choosing us is that we may be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God. Look at Romans 8:29 – “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.” Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son, came to this earth, shed His blood on the cross, rose from the dead on the third day, ascended into heaven, and is now at the right hand of God to intercede for us. This is how God glorified His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. So, Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son, is sitting at the right hand of God in the kingdom of heaven, the world of glory, praying for us. God has chosen us to be like this onl...