47 But one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant[1] of the high priest and cut off his ear.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Mark 14:47

Commentary on Mark 14:43-52

(Read Mark 14:43-52)

Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.