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 ...
Day 27: Romans 1:1-17 “I am obligated” We are debtors to the gospel (Rom. 1:14). We owe the gospel to all people. Therefore, we must proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. We should not be ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes (v. 16). What is the gospel? The gospel is Jesus Christ. It is His birth, His death on the cross, and His resurrection from the tomb. It is the virgin birth of Jesus Christ (Mt. 1:18). It is Jesus, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of a virgin, crucified on the cross to redeem our sins (Rom. 1:4). And it is Jesus, who rose from the dead after three days (v. 4). The nature and holiness of Jesus Christ are the gospel (vv. 3-4). We, as chosen ones, are appointed for this gospel (v. 1). We must proclaim this gospel to both believers and non-believers alike, because we are debtor...