Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - John 18:6
They went backward ... - The cause of their retiring in this manner is not mentioned. Various things might have produced it. The frank, open, and fearless manner in which Jesus addressed them may have convinced them of his innocence, and deterred them from prosecuting their wicked attempt. His disclosure of himself was sudden and unexpected; and while they perhaps anticipated that he would make an effort to escape, they were amazed at his open and bold profession. Their consciences reproved... read more
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - John 18:3
A band - See the notes at Matthew 26:47; Matthew 27:27. John passes over the agony of Jesus in the garden, probably because it was so fully described by the other evangelists.Lanterns ... - This was the time of the full moon, but it might have been cloudy, and their taking lights with them shows their determination to find him. read more