New International Reader's Version

John 18:5-23 New International Reader's Version (NIRV)

5. "Jesus of Nazareth," they replied. "I am he," Jesus said. Judas, who was going to hand Jesus over, was standing there with them.

6. When Jesus said, "I am he," they moved back. Then they fell to the ground.

7. He asked them again, "Who is it that you want?" They said, "Jesus of Nazareth."

8. "I told you I am he," Jesus answered. "If you are looking for me, then let these men go."

9. This happened so that the words Jesus had spoken would come true. He had said, "I have not lost anyone God has given me." (John 6:39)

10. Simon Peter had a sword and pulled it out. He struck the high priest's servant and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.

11. Jesus commanded Peter, "Put your sword away! Shouldn't I drink the cup of suffering the Father has given me?"

12. Then the group of soldiers, their leader and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They tied him up

13. and brought him first to Annas. He was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest at that time.

14. Caiaphas had advised the Jews that it would be good if one man died for the people.

15. Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. The high priest knew the other disciple. So that disciple went with Jesus into the high priest's courtyard.

16. But Peter had to wait outside by the door. The other disciple came back. He was the one the high priest knew. He spoke to the woman who was on duty there. Then he brought Peter in.

17. The woman at the door spoke to Peter. "You are not one of Jesus' disciples, are you?" she asked him. "I am not," he replied.

18. It was cold. The servants and officials stood around a fire. They had made it to keep warm. Peter was also standing with them. He was warming himself.

19. Meanwhile, the high priest questioned Jesus. He asked him about his disciples and his teaching.

20. "I have spoken openly to the world," Jesus replied. "I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I didn't say anything in secret.

21. Why question me? Ask the people who heard me. They certainly know what I said."

22. When Jesus said that, one of the officials nearby hit him in the face. "Is this any way to answer the high priest?" he asked.

23. "Have I said something wrong?" Jesus replied. "If I have, give witness to it. But if I spoke the truth, why did you hit me?"