LUKE 22:47–53
THE BETRAYAL AND ARREST OF JESUS
Text – Luke 22:47–53
47 While he was still speaking, a crowd approached, and in front of them was one of the Twelve, Judas, who went up to Jesus to kiss him.
48 Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”
49 His disciples realized what was about to happen, and they asked, “Lord, shall we strike with a sword?”
50 And one of them struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear.
51 But Jesus said in reply, “Stop, no more of this!” Then he touched the servant’s ear and healed him.
52 And Jesus said to the chief priests, temple guards, and elders who had come for him, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs?
53 Day after day I was with you in the temple area, and you did not seize me; but this is your hour, the time of the power of darkness.”
Historical and Jewish Context
Arrest at night with a crowd reflects fear and secrecy rather than lawful procedure. A kiss, normally a sign of affection and respect, becomes the instrument of betrayal, intensifying the moral gravity of Judas’ act. The presence of swords and clubs suggests the authorities anticipated resistance. Jesus’ healing of the wounded servant stands out as an act of mercy even at the moment of His arrest. His words about “the power of darkness” situate the event within a larger spiritual struggle, not merely a human conspiracy.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage reveals Jesus’ unwavering commitment to nonviolence and mercy. Catholic theology teaches that Christ freely surrenders Himself; His arrest is not a defeat but an act of obedience. By healing His enemy, Jesus embodies the love He taught—loving enemies and rejecting violence. The reference to “your hour” acknowledges that evil is permitted a limited time within God’s providence, yet it will not prevail. Christ’s authority is shown not by force but by self-giving love that overcomes darkness.
Parallels in Scripture
Ps 55:13–15 – Betrayal by a close companion.
Is 53:7 – The Servant led silently to suffering.
Mt 26:47–56 – Parallel account of the arrest.
Jn 18:10–11 – Jesus commands Peter to put away the sword.
Rom 12:17–21 – Overcoming evil with good.
Key Terms
Betrayal – Treachery disguised as affection.
Son of Man – Messianic title linked with suffering and glory.
Heal – Mercy offered even to enemies.
Hour – A moment permitted within God’s saving plan.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is proclaimed during Holy Week, particularly in the Passion narratives. It invites the faithful to contemplate Christ’s mercy, obedience, and refusal of violence. The passage shapes Christian moral teaching on peace, forgiveness, and trust in God amid injustice.
Conclusion
Jesus meets betrayal and violence with mercy and surrender. Even in the darkness of arrest, He remains faithful to the Father’s will and to His mission of love. The power of darkness is real, but it is neither absolute nor final.
Reflection
How do I respond when I face injustice or betrayal?
Do I trust God’s plan even when circumstances seem dark?
Jesus calls me to choose mercy, restraint, and faith over fear and retaliation.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, give me a heart like Yours—gentle, faithful, and merciful. Help me resist violence and respond to wrong with love. Strengthen me to trust the Father’s will, even in moments of darkness and trial. Amen.