Use this guide to help you draw closer to God. Try not to rush through these questions, but take time to learn and grow. Ask God to speak to you in His Word.

Conversation Starter
Have you seen someone you love being mistreated? Describe the situation. What was that like? How did you respond?

Personal Reflection/Group Discussion
Read The Life of Jesus, Reading #187 (this is a harmony of
Matthew 26:47-56; Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-53; and John 18:1-12).

Here's an idea! If you're in a group, take turns reading sections of this story out loud.

1. Study this scene like a detective. Who are the characters? What is the mood? What is the setting? What descriptive details stand out to you? How would you summarize what is happening?

2. Why do you think the religious leaders sent a large, armed group of soldiers to arrest Jesus?

3. Jesus was fully God and fully man. He knew the events of His future, and He felt the pain and darkness of the current moment. Reflect on what this must have felt like. How would you have handled this betrayal and arrest?

4. It was customary to greet a friend with a kiss. What do you think Judas must have been feeling as he leaned in to kiss Jesus and so identify Him as the one to be arrested?

5. Why do you think Jesus called Judas friend in Matthew 26:50?

6. What motivtated Peter to draw his sword? Do you think he was wrong to do that? Why or why not?

7. What was the point of Jesus' response that He could have called down legions of angels if He wanted (Matthew 26:53-54)?

8. What is God showing you about Himself and about yourself from this part of Jesus' story?

Soul Training
Write down two character traits you see in Jesus during his betrayal and arrest. Keep these words in front of you throughout the week, and ask God to help you see when these character traits are needed most. Admit to God that these character traits don't come naturally to you. In humility, ask God to help you be like Jesus.