Articles
Betraying Jesus - Luke 22:1-3
Betraying Jesus - Luke 22:1-3
(1) Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which is called the Passover, was approaching. (2) The chief priests and the scribes were seeking how they might put Him to death; for they were afraid of the people. (3) And Satan entered into Judas who was called Iscariot, belonging to the number of the twelve. (Luke 22:1-3)
Reading this still brings a sense of sadness, anger, and wonder. HOW could he do this? Over the years many others have had the same reaction. Some want to exonerate Judas and attribute unto him some higher motives such as ‘just trying to help Jesus accomplish His mission’, or some such.
There are several other scriptures that make this untenable. First, he was greedy even as he traveled with and listened to the teaching of Jesus. Though he was chosen and had his part in this ministry (cp. Acts 1:17), yet he stole from his close companions ( John 12:6)
Second, the record states that this decision was at least influenced by giving way to the temptations of Satan. I believe that he could have done what we all are exhorted to do – resist the devil and he will flee from you (cp. 1 Peter 5:8-9).
Third, the stated end of Judas is one of condemnation and ruin (read Mark 14.20-21; Acts 1:16-20).
Yet, I also read this with a sense of some fear and dread, for such betrayal occurs yet today. Many people will ‘sell out’ Jesus and often for much less ‘reward’ including fleeting fame, temporary ease of life, or even money. I can happen to us!
We need the basics in our lives: constantly feeding our mind with the story and teachings of Jesus (1Peter 2:2-3; Col. 3:16-17), constant fellowship and encouragement for trusted brothers (Hebrews 10:23-25), and constant prayer ( 1 Thess. 5:17; Luke 18:1; 21:36).
On this last concept of prayer, I am persuaded that a prayer for greater strength and an increasing of my trust (faith in action) is to be preferred to a prayer for God to take away the problem / test. So, what would it take for you to betray Jesus? How are you protecting yourself from such temptation? Be CAREFUL.
Hugh DeLong
