"Then Jesus, knowing everything that was about to happen to Him, went out and said to them, 'Who is it you’re looking for?'”
The Lord Jesus is bold. He knows the time has come to glorify the Father and to save His own people.
First, let us be encouraged by the boldness of Jesus. He prayed through the cross to the throne, and we suffer likewise, knowing that we'll gain. We enter the battle with victory assured. 1 Chronicles 14:15, “When you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, then march out to battle, for God will have marched out ahead of you to attack the camp of the Philistines.” Oh, the confidence, boldness, and assurance, when we know that God is with us. Oh, how we can overcome anything, when we have the promises.
Not only will we endure, but we'll be rewarded, because God is righteous. When Ahasuerus was unable to sleep, he remembered nothing had been done for Mordechai, who saved his life [Esther 6:1-2]. God will always honor the one who trusts in Him. Philippians 2:9 "For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name." Therefore, face any battle victoriously. Do not rely on silly bravado, but believe God's faithfulness. He won't let us down.
Secondly, Christ was bold because there was no other way to save His people. He had to go forward so we'd escape. Love compelled Him and so did the glory of God. He had to obey the Father and get His reward.
Ah, what a matchless plan: the death of one saves many, and God is glorified in grace, having chosen us and redeemed us from the horrors of sin, so that He can give us the inheritance. Delight in God, oh believer! You've received the reconciliation! Romans 5:11 "And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ. We have now received this reconciliation through Him." We have a good relationship by faith in Christ.
Thirdly, Jesus' boldness assures judgment to come. He's coming back just as boldly as He went to the cross, breaking through the atmosphere with a great shout. He's coming to execute His enemies. 2 Thessalonians, “1:8 taking vengeance with flaming fire on those who don’t know God and on those who don’t obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.”
Let's get on His good side. Do not think of Him as a coward. He will fulfill His words - all of the warnings and threats. He'll execute vengeance. Flee from the wrath to come. Hide yourself in Christ. In a little while, the Lion will slay. Isaiah 26:20, “Go, my people, enter your rooms and close your doors behind you. Hide for a little while until the wrath has passed." Trust in Him, oh ye people. He will save.
Finally, Christ's boldness encourages us in all our duties. We can be bold, because He took our place!