The Betrayal of Jesus

(Mark 14:43–52, Luke 22:47–53, John 18:1–14)

47 While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and elders of the people.

48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The One I kiss is the man; arrest Him.” 49 Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.

50 “Friend,” Jesus replied, “do what you came for.”[fn]

Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus, and arrested Him. 51 At this, one of Jesus’ companions drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

52 “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him. “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword. 53 Are you not aware that I can call on My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? 54 But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen this way?”

55 At that time Jesus said to the crowd, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest Me as you would an outlaw? Every day I sat teaching in the temple courts,[fn] and you did not arrest Me. 56 But this has all happened so that the writings of the prophets would be fulfilled.”

Then all the disciples deserted Him and fled.