The term "Arresting Party" refers to the group of individuals who apprehended Jesus Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, leading to His trial and crucifixion. This event is a pivotal moment in the New Testament, marking the beginning of the Passion of Christ. The arrest is recorded in all four Gospels: Matthew 26:47-56, Mark 14:43-50, Luke 22:47-53, and John 18:2-12.

Composition of the Arresting Party

The arresting party was composed of a diverse group, including Roman soldiers, temple guards, and officials from the chief priests and Pharisees. John 18:3 states, "So Judas brought a band of soldiers and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees. They arrived there with lanterns, torches, and weapons." This indicates a significant and organized effort to capture Jesus, involving both Jewish and Roman authorities.

Role of Judas Iscariot

Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, played a crucial role in the arrest. He betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, as prophesied in Zechariah 11:12-13 and fulfilled in Matthew 26:14-16. Judas identified Jesus to the arresting party with a kiss, a prearranged signal, as described in Matthew 26:48-49 : "Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: 'The One I kiss is the man; arrest Him.' Going directly to Jesus, he said, 'Greetings, Rabbi,' and kissed Him."

Response of Jesus and His Disciples

Jesus, fully aware of the events to unfold, did not resist arrest. In John 18:4-6 , it is recorded, "Jesus, knowing all that was coming upon Him, stepped forward and asked them, 'Whom are you seeking?' 'Jesus of Nazareth,' they answered. Jesus said, 'I am He.' And Judas, His betrayer, was standing there with them. When Jesus said, 'I am He,' they drew back and fell to the ground." This response demonstrates Jesus' authority and willingness to fulfill His mission.

The disciples, however, initially reacted with confusion and violence. In Matthew 26:51 , it is noted, "At this, one of Jesus’ companions drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear." Jesus rebuked this action, emphasizing His commitment to non-violence and submission to God's will, as seen in Matthew 26:52-54 : "Put your sword back in its place,' Jesus said to him. 'For all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you not think I can call on My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen this way?'"

Significance in the Passion Narrative

The arrest of Jesus is a significant event in the Passion narrative, highlighting the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the beginning of the trials that would lead to His crucifixion. It underscores the themes of betrayal, the fulfillment of divine prophecy, and the sacrificial nature of Jesus' mission. The arresting party, though acting under human authority, ultimately played a role in the divine plan of salvation, as Jesus willingly submitted to the events that would lead to His atoning death on the cross.