“Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.”
Matthew 26:52
Does it surprise you that Peter had a sword?
Like Peter, I am often tempted to respond with quick, knee-jerk reactions. Spiritually, emotionally or physically asleep my responses can be hasty. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.
Does it surprise you that Peter cut off the ear in a carnal effort to defend Christ?
Like Peter, my knee-jerk reactions have turned hearing ears to deaf ears. Spiritually asleep, my responses can be sharp and cutting. Put up again thy sword.
Does it surprise you that Jesus restored the ear?
Like Peter, my knee-jerk reactions have left pain only God can heal. Emotionally wounded and asleep my reactions have caused pain and suffering to others. They that take the sword shall perish with the sword.
Do you think the servant of the High Priest ever forgot that Peter cut off his ear? Do you think he ever forgot that Jesus restored it?
In the heat of the moment and as He is being arrested, Jesus reminds Peter of three important spiritual truths. (Matthew 26:53-54)
God is present.
God is powerful.
God has a plan.
Often things do not go as I plan. AND, people do not always do as I expect them to do. When that happens I am tempted to take up the sword (this seems to be an ongoing battle for me). I am faced with a choice.
Do I take up the sword and perish with the sword? Or do I lose the sword, take up my cross and find my life in Christ?
Theme Verse:
“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.” Mark 8:35
“Lose” from the Greek word “Apollymi” means “to destroy fully.” It is translated “perish” in Matthew 26:52, our verse for today.
“Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.”
Matthew 26:52