THE MISTAKE OF JUDAS (1)

Judas’ betrayal of Jesus is surely one of the saddest narratives in all of human history. Let us ask some questions about this series of events. What brought it about? Was Judas a traitor from the beginning? Did Jesus deliberately invite a thief and a turncoat into the circle of His closest companions? Judas’ tragedy is both a mystery and a common occurrence; for it arose out of the conception, birth, and growth of evil in a man’s heart even as he lived and walked with Jesus.

The Son of God—who knows the hearts of all men—chose Judas and eleven other men to become His apostles (Luke 6:13–16). After a night of prayer, He selected these men from His disciples because, in His eyes, they possessed the qualities He needed in the men whom he would prepare to assist Him in fulfilling His mission. In His selection, Jesus did not overlook a character flaw or a diseased heart in Judas. He saw in him potential and dedication, and He knew what He was doing when He picked Him. In addition, Judas accepted his post as an ambassador of Christ with gladness, enthusiasm, and a sincere commitment. No one in the apostolic band doubted his sincerity or questioned his ability. They even trusted him to be in charge of handling the group’s funds (John 13:29).

How did Judas descend from a talented, aspiring apostle to a crafty, deceptive traitor—from a sincere, confident devotee of Christ to a conniving devil? The Scriptures suggest that he did it by moving down a road that at first only diverged somewhat from Christ but gradually split off farther and farther from Him. The departure occurred subtly, with numerous little decisions preparing him for the ultimate, devastating betrayal. He cracked the door of his heart a little to a dark passion, later allowed the evil aspiration to enter his heart for brief visits, and finally offered the awful passion a permanent place in his spirit.

Here, then, are the signposts that are scattered along Judas’ road to ruin. He did not check the inordinate interest in money that developed within him. He permitted the love of riches to enter him; then, slowly but surely, it did its deadly work within him. He apparently did not realize that any man who loves money—even an apostle of Christ—is in serious danger.

Judas never learned how to listen fully to the truth. He had the privilege of hearing Christ speak and teach, but he did not let the Lord’s words captivate his heart. He heard them, yet he did not hear them. We say, “The words went in one ear and went out the other.” Judas heard Jesus declare, “Truly I say to you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:23).

Word Affirmation: “ Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the LORD, as in the days of old, and as in former years." - Malachi 3:4 (Don't just say it, mean it!)

“ Judas never learned how to listen fully to the truth. "

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