The Roles of Jesus' Followers in Protecting Him

During Jesus' journey, his followers played vital roles, not only in his teachings but also in trying to protect him. This article delves into how they attempted to safeguard him and the consequences of their actions.

Protection during Arrest

When Jesus was in Gethsemane, anticipating his arrest, one of his disciples, Simon Peter, took drastic action to defend his master. With a sword in hand, Peter cut off the ear of Malchus, one of the soldiers attempting to take Jesus into custody (John 18:10). However, Jesus firmly rebuked Peter and healed Malchus' ear. This scene underscores the depth of faith and devotion among Jesus' followers, yet also highlights the immediate challenges they faced.

Seeking Hiding Places

Following the failure of their spontaneous rebellion, it is reasonable to assume that some of Jesus' followers sought hiding places to shield themselves and their leader from the Roman authorities. The fear of arrest and execution was palpable, and the disciples were determined to avoid the same fate as their beloved leader.

Importance of Jesus' Suffering and Death

Contrary to the notion that protection was crucial for the sustainability of Jesus' message, Christ's crucifixion and subsequent resurrection were fundamental to the establishment of Christianity. If Jesus had managed to avoid arrest and death on the cross, the religious and spiritual framework we know today would not exist. The cross was not an accident; it was a critical component of the divine plan.

Jesus' Predestined Plan

Jesus, knowing his mission, had a predestined plan to die for humanity. It was through this sacrifice that he reconciled humanity with God the Father. When Peter tried to prevent Jesus' arrest, Jesus urged him to stop, recognizing that this was part of the divine mission. From the beginning of the world, even before the creation of humanity, Jesus had planned to give his life to save his friends.

Disciples' Loyalty and Betrayal

The actions of Jesus' disciples ranged from courage to betrayal. Peter, in his eagerness to protect Jesus, cut off an ear to defend him, but soon after, he denied his teacher three times. Thomas, however, was among the first to acknowledge the resurrection, demanding proof by touching the wounds of Christ. Similarly, Judas betrayed Jesus for financial gain. The followers' varied responses highlight the depth of their faith and the complexity of their relationship with Jesus.

Barabbas and the Crowd's Choice

At the time of Jesus' trial, the crowd had a choice between freeing Jesus or Barabbas, a convicted criminal. The crowd's decision to choose Barabbas demonstrated their fear and lack of faith, highlighting the critical moment when the cross of Jesus could have been averted but was not. This event is a poignant reminder of the consequences of human choices and the ultimate significance of Jesus' sacrifice.

Through these stories and narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of the roles played by Jesus' followers in protecting him. While their efforts were noble, the ultimate plan was predestined and led to the establishment of a new religious movement that continues to impact the world today.