Introduction
- Pastor reads Luke 22:47-53.
- Pastor prays, thanking God for His love, mercy, and the sacrifice of the cross.
- Prays for the Holy Spirit's guidance to encourage faithful service in the congregation.
Points
1. Depths of Pretense
- Judas leads the gang to Jesus with a deceitful kiss.
- Judas is exposed as a hypocrite and a devil, not a temporary sinner.
- He betrays Jesus for personal gain without true trust or love for Him.
- The kiss identifies Jesus to the mob.
2. Dilemma Into Which The Disciples Are Plunged
- Disciples are ready to fight for Jesus but are told to let His arrest happen.
- They are confused by Jesus' actions of showing love to the wicked.
- Disciples flee, as prophesied.
- Lessons for us: React in faith, not fleeting emotions, obey God's word even when it's not fully understood, and seek guidance from prayer and the Holy Spirit in times of uncertainty.
3. Spiritual Darkness in All Its Power
- The arrest demonstrates the power of evil trying to thwart God's plan.
- Satan aims to kill the promised Savior to win against God.
- Humanity aligns with demonic forces.
- Most of humanity rejects God, but His offer of forgiveness through faith in Jesus remains.
- Salvation is simple: believe in Jesus as God incarnate, His atoning sacrifice, and His resurrection.
- Trust Jesus today for secure eternity.
Concluding Thoughts
Jesus' arrest and the events that follow reveal the power of evil but also the promise of salvation through faith in Christ. Embrace His love and trust in His promises.
