John 18:1-14 | Power Play

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Sunday Morning | December 17, 2023 | John C. Majors | Louisville, KY

In Pastor John's sermon on Sunday, December 17, 2023, he focused on John 18:1-14, exploring the theme of power and contrasting the appearance of power with true power. The sermon highlighted three displays of false power and one display of true power.

The sermon began with a transition from the previous discourse in chapters 13-17 to the endgame of Jesus' journey. Pastor John emphasized the importance of discerning true power and the need to see through appearances.

The first point addressed Jesus' deliberate choice to go to the place where he was likely to be found, showing that he was not running from betrayal but moving toward it with complete control and trust in God. The sermon drew parallels with biblical instances involving Kidron, such as David fleeing from Absalom and references to final judgment.

The second point explored the first display of false power when Judas arrived with a band of soldiers. The term "semblance of power" was emphasized, indicating an outward appearance that is different from reality. Despite the soldiers, Jesus remained in control, as evidenced by his statement in Matthew 26:53 about summoning legions of angels if needed.

The third point delved into the disciples' response to the impending capture, focusing on Peter's use of a sword as a symbol of power. Jesus intervened, instructing them to put away the sword, emphasizing that worldly means of power were not the way to achieve their goals.

The fourth point discussed the final picture of false power involving positional power during one of the trials Jesus faced. The importance of not confusing position with power was highlighted, drawing attention to Caiaphas' misunderstanding of his own wisdom.

The sermon then returned to the display of true power in verses 4-9, where Jesus asked, "Whom do you seek?" and identified himself with the divine name "I AM." The response of those seeking him, falling back, was interpreted as a glimpse of Jesus' glory and power.

Finally, the sermon emphasized that Jesus' own words, referred to as fulfilling Scripture, were the source of true power. The audience was encouraged to discern the contrast between the appearance of power and true power and to recognize the power within themselves.

The sermon drew on biblical references, symbolism, and the narrative in John 18 to convey the message of distinguishing between false and true power.

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