His Word Today

⁵⁷ Then those who had seized Jesus led him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered. ⁵⁸ And Peter was following him at a distance, as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and going inside he sat with the guards to see the end.” (Matthew 26:57–58 (ESV)

⁵³ And they led Jesus to the high priest. And all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes came together. ⁵⁴ And Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he was sitting with the guards and warming himself at the fire.” (Mark 14:53–54 (ESV)

⁵⁴ Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest’s house, and Peter was following at a distance. ⁵⁵ And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them.” (Luke 22:54–55 (ESV)

¹² So the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. ¹³ First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. ¹⁴ It was Caiaphas who had advised the Jews that it would be expedient that one man should die for the people.” (John 18:12–14 (ESV)

To understand the context of Matt. 26:57–68, and the other gospel accounts, it is necessary to know Jesus had to undergo two trials. The first was an ecclesiastical, or religious, trial, which would be in three stages. The second was a civil trial. This also would be in three stages. 

The second religious trial took place before Caiaphas. John indicated Caiaphas was the current high priest (John 18:13). John also mentioned Caiaphas had stated it would be advantageous for Jesus to die for the people (John 11:45=53). 

Concurrent with Jesus’ trials was Peter’s attendance. He followed at a distance and got as far as the high priest’s courtyard. He sat with guards, warming himself at a fire kindled by the soldiers. Matthew recorded Peter wanted to see what would happen to Jesus (Matt. 26:58). John provides additional information regarding Peter’s presence.                                                                                     

¹⁵ Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, ¹⁶ but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in.” (John 18:15–16 (ESV)

“Though all the disciples had fled, two soon rallied, and began to follow the band which was leading Jesus to the high priest’s palace. Still fearful, Peter was following (imperfect tense) from a considerable distance (Matthew, Mark, Luke). With him was someone who is simply called another disciple. That this unnamed person was no one else than the author of the Fourth Gospel we have tried to prove,” explains Dr. William Hendriksen.

“The “other disciple” (John) was known—though not of necessity intimately—to the high priest. How it was that Annas (see on verse 13)—hence, probably also his son-in-law—knew John remains a mystery. Theories—such as, that John was a distant relative, or that his father’s firm delivered fish to the high priest’s palace (the view of Nonnus, an Egyptian scholar, about 400 a.d.)—are nothing but guesses. It is important, nevertheless, to bear in mind the fact as such (that John was known to the high priest). See also on 18:10. This explains why, without difficulty, John—who, having by this time regained courage, had shortened the distance between himself and the band—entered with Jesus into the court of the high priest.”

This scene set the stage for Peter’s three denials of knowing Jesus.

Soli deo Gloria!

⁵⁷ “Then those who had seized Jesus led him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered.” (Matthew 26:57 ESV)

⁵³ “And they led Jesus to the high priest. And all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes came together.” (Mark 14:53 ESV)

⁵⁴ “Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest’s house, and Peter was following at a distance.” (Luke 22:54 (ESV)

¹² “So the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. ¹³ First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. (John 18:12–13 ESV)

To understand the context of Matt. 26:57–68, along with the events of Matthew 27, it is necessary to know Jesus had to undergo two trials. The first was an ecclesiastical, or religious, trial, which would be in three stages. The second was a civil trial. This also would be in three stages.  

To seize (κρατέω; krateo) means to make an official arrest. The enemies of Jesus then bound and led Him (John 18:12) to the chief priest, Caiaphas. The commanding officer in charge is a captain (χιλίαρχος; chiliarchos), general or military tribune (John 18:12).

“The first contained three stages, and so did the second. The three stages of the so-called ecclesiastical trial were: a. the preliminary hearing before Annas (John 18:12–14, 19–23); b. the trial before the Sanhedrin, that is, before Caiaphas and the scribes and the elders (Matt. 26:57); and c. the trial before the same body just after daybreak (Matt. 27:1). The hearing before Annas, described only by John, must not be confused with the trial before Caiaphas,” explains Dr. William Hendricksen.

John records that before they brought Jesus to Caiaphas, they initially brought him to Annas, Caiaphas’ father-in-law (Luke 3:2; John 18:13; Acts 4:6). This initiated the first stage of Jesus’ ecclesiastical trial. Who exactly was Annas?

“Annas (or Ananus, as Josephus calls him; the name is from the Hebrew Hananiah, meaning Jehovah is gracious) had been appointed high priest by Quirinius in the year 6 a.d., and was deposed by Valerius Gratus, about 15 a.d. Though deposed, he remained for a long time the ruling spirit of the Sanhedrin. He was the dominant member of the Jewish hierarchical machine,” states Dr. Hendriksen.

“He was very proud, exceedingly ambitious, and fabulously wealthy. His family was notorious for its greed. The main source of his wealth seems to have been a goodly share of the proceeds from the price of sacrificial animals, which were sold in the Court of the Gentiles. See on 2:14. By him the house of prayer had been turned into a den of robbers. Even the Talmud declares: “Woe to the family of Annas! Woe to the serpent-like hisses” (probably the whisperings of Annas and the members of his family, seeking to bribe and influence the judges).” concludes Dr. Hendriksen.

Caiaphas may have possessed the title, but Annas possessed the power. More to come.

Soli deo Gloria!

⁵⁵ “At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. ⁵⁶ But all this has taken place that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples left him and fled.” (Matthew 26:55–56 (ESV)

⁴⁸ “And Jesus said to them, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? ⁴⁹ Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.” ⁵⁰ And they all left him and fled.” (Mark 14:48–50 (ESV)

⁵² “Then Jesus said to the chief priests and officers of the temple and elders, who had come out against him, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs? ⁵³ When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” (Luke 22:52–53 (ESV)

⁴ “Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” ⁵ They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. ⁶ When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. ⁷ So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” ⁸ Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.” ⁹ This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.” (John 18:4–9 (ESV)

In observing the four Gospels concerning Jesus’ arrest in Gethsemane, Matthew, Mark and Luke record Jesus asking the crowd “Have you come out as against a robber?” Luke alone specifically identifies the crowd, consisting of “the chief priests and officers of the temple and elders” (Luke 22:52).

The three authors mention Jesus saying, “Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me.” Again, Luke alone records Jesus also saying, “But this is your hour, and the power of darkness” (Luke 22:53). The setting of physical darkness is appropriate for the dynamic of spiritual darkness. Additionally, Matthew and Mark alone mention the disciples leaving Jesus and fleeing the scene of darkness (Matt. 26:56; Mark 14:50). Jesus also refers this scene as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.

Psalm 88:8 (ESV) – “You have caused my companions to shun me; you have made me a horror to them. I am shut in so that I cannot escape.”

Psalm 88:18 (ESV) – “You have caused my beloved and my friend to shun me; my companions have become darkness.” 

What an ironic contrast to Jesus’ statement in His Sermon on the Mount that His disciples were salt and light (Matt. 5:13-16) and also when Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life,” (John 8:12).

Not surprisingly, John emphasized the deity of Jesus Christ in his narrative. He refers to Jesus’ omniscience (John 18:4), His holiness (vs. 6), His authority (vs. 8) and His perfect fulfillment of Scripture (vs. 9). 

“Our Lord expressed amazement during His arrest, noting that He was being treated as a robber and being taken at night even though there had been opportunities to arrest Him during the day (Mark 14:52–53). The soldiers acted as if He were a criminal even though they had plainly seen in the daylight that He was not one, and their arrest of Him at night shows their awareness that He was guilty of no sin. They had to come at night, when no one was looking, lest they meet protests from the crowds that Jesus was an innocent man. They had to hide their unjust actions under cover of darkness,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.

“If anyone wishes to know what kind of person this Jesus had proved himself to be during the slightly more than three years of his public ministry, let him read such passages as Matt. 4:23–25; 11:25–30; 12:18–21; Luke 24:19; Acts 2:22. To say, as some, in commenting on Matt. 26:55, have done, that he was “harmless” is putting it too mildly. He was and is, “the Savior of the world” (John 4:42; 1 John 4:14), the world’s greatest Benefactor. How absurd and hypocritical it was for the foe in the hour of darkness to pounce upon this Good Shepherd, from whom no one who heeded his message had anything to fear, and who even taught people to love their enemies,” states Dr. William Hendriksen.

Soli deo Gloria!

⁵¹ “And behold, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear. ⁵² Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword. ⁵³ Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? ⁵⁴ But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?” (Matthew 26:51–54 ESV)

“But one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear.” (Mark 14:47 (ESV)

⁴⁹ “And when those who were around him saw what would follow, they said, “Lord, shall we strike with the sword?” ⁵⁰ And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. ⁵¹ But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him.” (Luke 22:49–51 ESV)

¹⁰ Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) ¹¹ So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” (John 18:10–11 ESV)

All four Gospels refer to an act of violence by one of Jesus’ disciples against the servant of the high priest. What are the various and observable facts contained in these four accounts?

First, Matthew describes the individual as “one of those who were with Jesus” (Matt. 26:51). Mark says it was “one who stood by” (Mark 14:47). Luke reports “when those who were around him saw what would follow…one of them struck the servant” (Luke 22:49-50a). John specifically identifies Simon Peter as the disciple who performed the violent act (John 18:10).

Second, all four Gospels use the same word for sword (μάχαιρα; machaira). This refers to a small dagger. Perhaps this would have been an instrument Peter used as a fisherman.

Third, all four Gospels record Simon Peter cut off the servant’s ear. John says it was the servant’s right ear (John 18:10). John is also the only one who identified the servant as Malchus (John 18:10).

Fourth, with the exception of Mark, the Gospel writers state Jesus immediately condemned Peter’s act. However, Luke is the only one who said Jesus also healed the servant by touching his ear (Luke 22:51).

Fifth, both Matthew and John said Jesus acknowledge God the Father’s sovereign control in this situation so the Scriptures would be fulfilled (Matt. 26:53-54; John 18:11). Jesus also referred to more than twelve legions of angels God the Father could send to defend God the Son (Matt. 26:53)

Finally, although each of the four Gospels share particular information not found in the other accounts, none of them contradict each other. They are all in harmony.

“Though a scuffle broke out in which one of the soldiers had his ear cut off, Jesus did not put up a fight when the evil men arrested Him (Mark 14:46–50). He went willingly and even showed love for His enemies in the process. Luke 22:50–51 reports that Jesus healed the soldier’s ear,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.  

“Although the incident is related in all four Gospels, only John mentions the names of the two persons who (in addition to Jesus himself) figured most prominently in it. When John published his Gospel it was no longer possible to punish the assailant. Hence, in John’s Gospel the assailant’s name and that of the person attacked could be mentioned,” states Dr. William Hendriksen.

John Calvin states in his commentary, “The fact that Jesus healed the man and that the arrest nevertheless continued shows the depths of human depravity. Wicked men were so intent on capturing Jesus that they would not pause when He showed His divine identity by healing the soldier.”

The texts also reveal that spiritual warfare is not fought by human methods. 2 Corinthians 10:3–5 (ESV) says, “³ For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. ⁴ For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. ⁵ We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.”

Soli deo Gloria!

⁴⁷ “While he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. ⁴⁸ “Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man; seize him.” ⁴⁹ And he came up to Jesus at once and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” And he kissed him. ⁵⁰ Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you came to do.” Then they came up and laid hands on Jesus and seized him.” (Matthew 26:48–50 (ESV)

⁴³ “And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. ⁴⁴ Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man. Seize him and lead him away under guard.” ⁴⁵ And when he came, he went up to him at once and said, “Rabbi!” And he kissed him. ⁴⁶ And they laid hands on him and seized him.” (Mark 14:43–46 (ESV)

⁴⁷ “While he was still speaking, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He drew near to Jesus to kiss him, ⁴⁸ but Jesus said to him, “Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?” (Luke 22:47–48 (ESV)

⁴ “Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” ⁵ They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them.” (John 18:4–5 (ESV)

It was horrible enough for Judas Iscariot to betray the Lord Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. It was even worse for him to betray the Lord with a kiss. However, this act was a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (Psalm 41:9; John 13:18).

All four Gospels describe Judas as one of the twelve (Matt. 26:47; Mark 14:43; Luke 22:47; John 6:71). “Only once (John 20:24) is another disciple so described. The Gospel writers seem to use the expression to underscore the insidiousness of Judas’ crime—especially here in the midst of betrayal,” explains Dr. John MacArthur.

A kiss is one of most tactile and affectionate expressions of friendship and love. Spouses kiss, parents kiss their children, and close friends occasionally kiss each other in times of grief or joy. We kiss to say hello, and we kiss when we say goodbye. Even at a wedding, the climactic moment of the ceremony, prior to introducing the bride and groom, is when the minister instructs the groom to kiss the bride.  

“Now a soft kiss- Aye, by that kiss, I vow and endless bliss.” – John Keats

“Close your eyes and I’ll kiss you, Tomorrow I’ll miss you.” ― Paul McCartney

“You should be kissed and by someone who knows how.” ― Margaret Mitchell

Judas’ kiss of Christ was not one of love or friendship but rather of hatred and even greed. It was because of his kiss of betrayal that Judas sealed the deal to secure his fortune and Jesus’ arrest, trial and crucifixion.

“What made Judas’ betrayal of the Savior even worse than it would have been otherwise was that Judas was allegedly a friend of our Lord. It is bad enough to be betrayed by an acquaintance, but to be abandoned by a loved one is truly horrific. And Judas compounded his treason even further by betraying Jesus with a kiss, a sign of affection, and referring to Him as “Rabbi,” a title of honor (vv. 44–45). One commentator notes that these actions were the first acts of mockery that would take place during the trial and passion of our Savior. Judas’ actions show that he neither truly loved Jesus nor honored Him as He deserved,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.

I wonder how it makes you feel when the prodigal won’t come home
I wonder how it makes you feel when he’d rather be on his own
I wonder what it’s like for you when a lamb has gone astray
I wonder what it’s like for you when your children disobey.

I wonder how it makes you feel when no one seeks your face
I wonder how it makes you feel when they give up in the race
I wonder what it’s like for you when they willingly disobey
I wonder what it’s like for you when they willingly walk away.

It must be like another thorn struck in your brow
It must be like another close friend’s broken vow
It must be like another nail right through your wrist
It must be just like
Just like Judas’ kiss. – Bob Hartman

⁴⁶ “Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.” ⁴⁷ While he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people.” (Matthew 26:46–47 ESV)

⁴³ “And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders.” (Mark 14:43 (ESV)

⁴⁷ “While he was still speaking, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them.” Luke 22:47a (ESV)

“When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. ² Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. ³ So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons.” (John 18:1–3 ESV)

All four Gospels record the account of Judas’ betrayal of Jesus. There are several observations which can be made concerning this treacherous event.

First, it was a personal betrayal because Judas was one of the twelve disciples. Second, it was public betrayal with Judas leading a great crowd containing officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, scribes, elders, and a band of soldiers. Third, it was a potentially violent betrayal for the crowd had swords, clubs and weapons. Fourth, it was a covert betrayal because it happened at night evidenced by the crowd’s use of torches and lanterns. Jesus’ enemies did not want the public to know what they were doing; at least not yet.

“Because they are sent by prominent men of Jerusalem, the band that comes to arrest Jesus is probably the temple guard. They come prepared for armed resistance from one they suppose is a messianic revolutionary,” explains commentator Craig Keener.

“When Jesus had exposed Judas at the Passover supper, that traitor must have hurried off to the chief priests, etc., the men who had hired him. Was he afraid that once his treachery became known the alarm would spread and from everywhere friends of Jesus—think especially of the many from Galilee, now in the city—would gather in his defense? “Act quickly,” he must have told the Jewish authorities, preferably by night, when no crowds are around. Act tonight,” states Dr. William Hendriksen.

Judas’ hurried act of betrayal resulted in a lasting legacy of ignominy. However, it was all within the providence and sovereignty of God (Acts 2:22-23).

Take care to watch and pray so as to not enter into temptation by sins of commission or omission (Matt. 26:41; James 4:17).

Soli deo Gloria!   

⁴² “Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” ⁴³ And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. ⁴⁴ So, leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words again. ⁴⁵ Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Sleep and take your rest later on. See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.” (Matthew 26:42–45 (ESV)

³⁹ “And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. ⁴⁰ And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. ⁴¹ And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. ⁴² Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.” (Mark 14:39–42 (ESV)

The hour for which all the Old Testament prophets spoke arrived. Jesus understood this. He prayed a second and a third time regarding His impending crucifixion. His prayers were the same as the first in substance, but different in emphasis. Jesus no longer asked for the cup of wrath to pass from Him (Matt. 26:39). Rather, He prayed if there is no other way to accomplish the Father’s will, His will would be done.

“Though both prayers—the one of verse 39 and that of verse 42—are the same in essence, there is a difference in emphasis. The main clause is no longer, “Let this cup be spared me,” but “Thy will be done,” a petition identical in wording and meaning with the one Jesus had himself taught his disciples (Matt. 6:10b). What is happening, then, is that by his own very painful and distressing experience Jesus is “learning” what it means to be obedient, and is revealing this obedience in a progressively glorious manner,” explains Dr. William Hendriksen.

Hebrews 5:8 says, “Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered.”  Jesus suffered the wrath of God the Father so God the Father could eternally justify, redeem and reconcile sinners to Himself (Rom. 3:21-26). Justification redemption and reconciliation was accomplished not only by Jesus’ active obedience in living a sinless life, but also by Jesus ‘passive obedience in submitting to a substitutionary death on the cross for sinners.  

“Our Lord’s active keeping of God’s commandments was necessary so that Christ could be our righteousness (1 Cor. 1:30). But in addition to Jesus’ active obedience, we also need His passive obedience, His suffering the curse of God so that we could be cleansed of our sin (Rom. 3:21–26),” states Dr. R. C. Sproul.

“The passive obedience of Christ does not mean that our Lord was merely a passive recipient of suffering in His death. Yes, He suffered because other men beat Him and crucified Him, but Christ was active even in this. He gave Himself over to sinful men so that He could die in our place (Mark 15:16–20). He laid down His life; no one took it from Him unwillingly (John 10:18).”

Jesus actively prayed in order to passively submit to the Father’s will. As He was doing so, the disciples were active in their sleeping while passive in their watching and praying (Matt. 26:41). The Lord awakened them and announced it was no longer the time for rest. The hour had arrived for which He had been born (Matt. 1:20-23; Phil.2:5-11).

Puritan John Owen states, “There is something peculiar in that obedience which the Son of God is said to learn from his own sufferings, namely, what it is for a sinless person to suffer for sinners.”

“In some ways, the sufferings of Christ are analogous to ours, but in other ways, they are unique to Him in His role as our Mediator. In fact, it was through obeying God and experiencing the curse of suffering that our sin deserves that Jesus was made perfect as our High Priest. By offering Himself as our atonement, Christ fulfilled His appointed task and became “the source of eternal salvation” (Heb. 5:9–10),” concludes Dr. Sproul.

Soli deo Gloria!

⁴¹ Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41 (ESV)

^“And we prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night.” (Nehemiah 4:9 ESV)

Jesus’ command to His disciples in Gethsemane to watch and pray against temptation was not only applicable to them, and for all believers in Christ, but also to the Jews rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem under Nehemiah’s leadership in approximately 446 B.C.

Opposition arose concerning the rebuilding project (Nehemiah 4:1-8). What did Nehemiah have the people do? They prayed and set a guard. In other words, they watched and prayed (Nehemiah 4:9).

On July 24, 1890, Pastor Charles Haddon Spurgeon preached Nehemiah 4:9 from the Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit. The following is an excerpt from his message.

“NEHEMIAH, and the Jews with him, were rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Sanballat and others were angry with them, and tried to stop the work. They determined to pounce upon the people on a sudden, and slay them, and so to put an end to what they were doing.”

“Our text tells us what Nehemiah and his companions did in this emergency: “Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.”

“These people had not only to build the wall of Jerusalem, but to watch against their enemies at the same time. Their case is ours. We have to work for Christ. I hope that all of us who love him are trying to do what we can to build up his kingdom; but we need also to watch against deadly foes. If they can destroy us, of course they will also destroy our work. They will do both, if they can. The powers of evil are mad against the people of God. If they can in any way injure or annoy us, you may rest assured that they will do so. They will leave no stone unturned, if it can serve their purpose. No arrows will be left in the quivers of hell while there are godly men and women at whom they can be aimed. Satan and his allies will aim at our hearts every poisoned dart they have.”

“Nehemiah had been warned of the attack that was to be made upon the city. The Jews who lived near these Samaritans had heard their talk of what they meant to do, and they came and told Nehemiah of the plotting of the adversaries.”

“We also have been warned. As our Lord said to Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat,” so has he, in his word, told us that there is a great and terrible evil power which is seeking our destruction. If Satan can do it, he will not only sift us as wheat, but he will cast us into the fire that we may be destroyed. Brethren, “we are not ignorant of his devices.” You are not left in a fool’s paradise, to dream of security from trial, and to fancy that you are past temptation.”

“It was well for these people, also, that, being in. danger, and being aware of the malice of their enemies, they had a noble leader to incite them to the right course to be pursued. Nehemiah was well qualified for his work. He gave the Jews very shrewd, sensible, and yet spiritual advice, and this was a great help to them in their hour of need.”

“Beloved, we have a better Leader than Nehemiah; we have our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and we have his Holy Spirit, who dwells in us, and shall be with us. I beg you to listen to his wise and good advice. I think he will give it to you through our explanation of the text. He will say to you, what Nehemiah, in effect, said to these people, “Watch and pray.” Although the adversaries of the Jews conspired together, and came to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder the work of rebuilding the wall, Nehemiah says, “Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.”

“In the text, I see two guards; first, prayer: ‘We made our prayer unto our God.’ The second guard is watchfulness: ‘We set a watch.’ When I have spoken on these two subjects, I shall take, as my third topic, the two guards together. We prayed, and we set a watch. We must have them both if we would defeat the enemy.”

Whatever the enemy you may be facing, the world, the flesh or the devil, there is one primary discipline to observe. Dear friends, believers in Christ are to watch and pray. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!