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 23: Acts 23:1 A righteous life of faith A righteous life of faith entails, firstly, serving God with a clear conscience in all things. Paul boldly confessed before the gathering of priests and council members that he served God with a clear conscience in all things. Like Paul, we should strive to have a good conscience every day. Secondly, it means despising hypocrisy. Paul referred to the high priest Ananias as a "whitewashed wall." This expression means looking beautiful on the outside but being filled with all sorts of filth on the inside (Sang-seop Yoo). In other words, it signifies a disconnect between outward appearance and inner reality. We should disdain such hypocrisy. Thirdly, it means being led by God's word. We should live in obedience to God's word, not fearing people, but revering God.