John 18 - 19, Luke 23 (13th November) - Weiling

These chapters depict the persecution and cruxification of our Lord and Saviour. It also shows how Jesus completed the work (John 19:30 It is finished) that His Father has called Him to do on earth. Jesus came to earth, He healed and set free many. But the main purpose was to be the sacrificial Lamb in our place, so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

He who knew no sin but became sin on our behalf... (2 Cor 5:21)
Jesus did nothing wrong and certainly did nor deserved the death penalty. Pilate, and also Herod, both declared him free from any charge that would warrant the death penalty. (John 9:14; Luke 23:1-16, 22 and 40) But the chief priests and crowd were out for His blood. It was totally unfair. But Jesus knew that all this was necessary and was part of God's redemption plan. Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above..." (John 19: 11)

To drink the cup the Father has given Him
Jesus knew that He was going to die for us but He appeared so calm. "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth." (Isa 53: 7) Why? Because He chose to obey and to "drink the cup" the Father has given Him. "Jesus commanded Peter, "Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?" (John 18: 11)
But we know also that Jesus struggled in this when He prayed "Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." (Mark 14: 36) And so, while Jesus can fully empathise with you in your struggles to obey Him, He is also our example in obedience.


And because of Jesus' obedience, the work is finished. Because of His sacrifice, we can go to the Father. Let's not forfeit this privilege bought at a high cost. Let's take time to pause and say "Thank You Jesus, from the bottom of my heart".