John 18 and 19

Step 1: Read John chapters 18 & 19 and take notes on what stands out to you.

Step 2: Consider answering some or all of the questions below (may these be a blessing, and not a burden)

Optional Study Questions

1. Re-read John 18:1-12. Think about what happens to Jesus and how He responds in 18:1-12. What do you learn about His character, His mission, and what He values? What details give you these impressions?
   1. Optional: dig a little deeper and check out: What does “I am he” in 18:5-6, 8 imply? Recall John 4:26, 8:58, 13:19. Why do you think the soldiers fell to the ground at these words? (18:6)
2. None of the four Gospels records all of the interviews and trials that Jesus underwent between perhaps 3 a.m. and noon on Friday. Use your observations about Jesus at His arrest and trials in John 18:12-14, 19-24 and John 18:39-19:16 as a springboard to praise Him.
   1. Optional: dig a little deeper and observe Jesus at the extensive interrogation, informal and formal trials in the four gospel accounts:
      1. Interrogation by Annas (John 18:12-14, 19-23)
      2. Informal trial by the Sanhedrin before dawn (Matthew 26:57-68; Mark 14:53-65; Luke 22:54, 63-65; John 18:24).
      3. Formal trial after dawn (Matthew 27:1, Mark 15:1, Luke 22:66-71).
      4. Roman trials
         1. First appearance before Pilate (Matthew 27:2, 11-14; Mark 15:1-5; Luke 23:1-5; John 18:28-38).
         2. Before Herod Antipas (Luke 23:8-12).
   1. 1. 1. Final appearance before Pilate (Matthew 27:15-26, Mark 15:6-15, Luke 23:3-25, John 18:39-19:16)
3. Read Psalms 22. Write down what stands out to you as you read text written 600+ years before Jesus’ arrival.

Heart Questions

1. Re-read John 18:36. Jesus identifies that His battle is being fought and won not in this world, but in the eternal Kingdom of God. Does that resonate with you? Are you currently engaged in a struggle? Can you see elements of this current struggle that are of “this world” vs. of the eternal Kingdom of God? How might that change your perspective and approach to this challenge you face?
2. This is a heavy week. Often times we want to skip ahead to the resurrection, the hope, the “happy ending”. However, there is much to be received when we pause and contemplate the cross. How Jesus prepared for it, approached it, received it. By His sacrifice and wounds, we have the opportunity to be healed both now and for eternity. Take time to reflect and receive His sacrifice for you in a new way and thank Him for who He is, what He has done, and what He is doing.