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 ...
Living worthily as recipients of the best gift (1) [Romans 6:1-11] We have already learned through meditation on Romans 5:12-21 that the greatest gift God gives us is eternal life. We must believe in Jesus Christ if we want to receive this gift of eternal life. Whoever believes in his heart that God raised Jesus from the dead and confesses with his mouth that Jesus is Lord will be saved (10:9) and can enjoy this greatest gift, eternal life, not only in the world to come but also in this world. If there are people who have not yet received this blessing of eternal life, I hope and pray that you will receive this blessing today. Believe that Jesus died on the cross to forgive all your sins. Also, believe that Jesus, who died to justify you, rose from the grave (4:25). To all those who believe in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God will give you eternal life, the greatest gift that cannot be exchanged for...