What do you think are the most relevant details in this passage?  Why?

What has Jesus just finished doing and discussing with his disciples?  (John 13-17)

Judas and the soldiers and religious leaders had plenty of opportunities to confront Jesus in public, in broad daylight.  Why do you think they waited to confront and arrest Jesus in private, at night?  (Luke 22:52-53)

When Jesus responds “I am he”, he is not simply acknowledging that he is the person that they are looking for.  What else is he implying, and subtly communicating?  (See also John 6:16-21, John 8:24, John 8:56-58.)

Why do you think that the soldiers and religious leaders draw back and fall to the ground in 18:6?  (See also Ezekiel 1:26-28, Ezekiel 44:4, Acts 9:1-8, Revelation 1:9-18.)

What do you think are Peter’s motivations for attacking the high priest’s servant?  (18:10)  Do you think his actions were good or bad?  Why?

Why do you think Jesus responds the way that he does in 18:11?  What is he trying to communicate to Peter?

What is the cup that the Father has given to Jesus?  (18:11)  (See also Psalm 75:6-8, Jeremiah 25:15-29, Isaiah 51:17-23.)

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