The Healing Of Malchus

Church History: The Healing Of Malchus; Luke 22:50, 51; Matthew 26:51,52; Mark 14:47; John 18:10, 26
One of them which were with Jesus. John informs us that this was Peter. The other evangelists concealed the name, probably because they wrote while Peter was living, and it might have endangered Peter to have it known. And drew his sword. The apostles were not commonly armed. On this occasion they had provided two swords, Luke 22:38. In seasons of danger, when travelling through the country, they were under the necessity of providing means of defending themselves against the robbers that infested the country. This will account for their having any swords in their possession. These swords, Josephus informs us, the people were accustomed to carry under their garments, as they went up to Jerusalem. A servant of the High Priest's. His name, John informs us, was Malchus. Luke adds, that Jesus touched the ear, and healed it; thus showing his benevolence to his foes when they sought his life, and giving them proof that they were attacking Him that was sent from heaven.2
Nothing can be a greater affront or grief to the Lord Jesus, than to be betrayed by those who profess to be his followers, and say that they love him. Many instances there are, of Christ's being betrayed by those who, under the form of godliness, fight against the power of it. Jesus here gave an illustrious example of his own rule of doing good to those that hate us, as afterwards he did of praying for those that despitefully use us. Corrupt nature warps our conduct to extremes; we should seek for the Lord's direction before we act in difficult circumstances. Christ was willing to wait for his triumphs till his warfare was accomplished, and we must be so too. But the hour and the power of darkness were short, and such the triumphs of the wicked always will be.