Sermon 165

📖 Sermon 165 – The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus

Date: [no date given]
Text: Luke 22:47–53

Introduction

The hour of darkness has come. Jesus rises from prayer, and immediately a crowd approaches led by Judas, one of the twelve. The betrayal unfolds not with a sword, but with a kiss — the false token of false love. Yet through this moment of treachery we behold Christ’s majesty, His restraint, and His submission to the Father’s will.

I. The Treacherous Kiss

A. “While He yet spake, behold a multitude…”
The peaceful garden invaded.

B. “…and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them”
A chosen apostle now leads Christ’s enemies.

C. “Judas, betrayest thou the Son of Man with a kiss?”
A question full of sorrow, piercing the conscience of the betrayer.

II. The Impulsive Sword Stroke

A. “Lord, shall we smite with the sword?”
The disciples misunderstand the nature of Christ’s kingdom.

B. “One of them smote the servant of the high priest”
Zeal without knowledge leads to harm.

C. Jesus immediately heals the wound
Mercy triumphs even in the moment of arrest.

III. Christ’s Submission to the Father’s Will

A. “Suffer ye thus far.”
A command that halts violence.

B. “Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves?”
He exposes their injustice and cowardice.

C. “This is your hour, and the power of darkness.”
He yields — not to their strength, but to the divine plan He came to fulfill.

Conclusion

In this solemn passage we see the darkest treachery and the brightest grace. Judas betrays Him; Jesus heals His captor. A crowd seizes Him; He willingly submits. The hour of darkness advances, yet the Light of the world shines undimmed. Let us behold our Savior — betrayed, arrested, yet sovereign, merciful, and steadfast in love.