John 18 shows Jesus in full control even as He is arrested. He went to a familiar garden, where Judas knew to find Him. Judas came with a detachment of soldiers and temple officers carrying lanterns, torches and weapons. Jesus, knowing all things, stepped forward. When He answered, I am he, the soldiers drew back and fell to the ground. These words echo God's name, I AM. Jesus then asked them to let His disciples go, fulfilling His promise that He would lose none. Peter's sword was the wrong response. Jesus said, The cup which the Father has given me, shall I not surely drink it?
John interweaves two trials. Inside, Jesus was questioned by Annas and struck unjustly, yet answered with truth and dignity. Outside, Peter warmed himself at a charcoal fire and denied Jesus three times. Peter feared a servant girl, while Jesus faced the high priest. Peter's story did not end here. Another charcoal fire would appear in chapter 21.
Before Pilate, the leaders would not enter the governor's headquarters so they could eat the Passover. Yet they were handing over the true Passover Lamb. Jesus told Pilate, My Kingdom is not of this world. He is a King who came to testify to the truth. Pilate asked, What is truth? He declared Jesus innocent three times (18:38; 19:4, 6). Still, he offered a choice, and the crowd cried out for Barabbas, a robber. The guilty went free while the innocent One was condemned, a picture of what Jesus does for sinners.