Learning from Judas

Matthew 10:4 NASB

(4) Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Him.

God can use even an apostate like Judas to teach us some important lessons.

Judas is history's greatest human tragedy. He had opportunities and privileges known only to the other disciples, but he turned from them to pursue a course of destruction. Yet even from his foolishness, there are important lessons.

Judas is the world's greatest example of lost opportunity. He ministered for three years with Jesus Himself but was content merely to associate with Him, never submitting to Him in saving faith.

John 13:26-27 NASB

(26) Jesus then answered, "That is the one for whom I shall dip the morsel and give it to him." So when He had dipped the morsel, He *took and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot.

(27) After the morsel, Satan then entered into him. Therefore Jesus said to him, "What you do, do quickly."

 Millions of people have followed his example by hearing the gospel and associating with Christians, yet rejecting Christ. Tragically, like Judas, once death comes they too are damned for all eternity.

Judas is also the world's greatest example of wasted privileges. He could have had the riches of an eternal inheritance but instead chose thirty pieces of silver. In that respect, he is also the greatest illustration of the destructiveness and damnation greed can bring. He did an unthinkable thing, yet he has many contemporary counterparts in those who place wealth and pleasure above godliness.

On the positive side, Judas is the world's greatest illustration of the forbearing, patient love of God. Knowing what Judas would do, Jesus tolerated him for three years. Beyond that, He constantly reached out to him and even called him "friend" after his kiss of betrayal.

Matthew 26:50 NASB

(50) And Jesus said to him, "Friend, do what you have come for." Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and seized Him.

If a friend has ever betrayed you, you know the pain it can bring. However, the Lord's pain was compounded many times over because He knew He would be betrayed, and because the consequences were so serious. Yet He endured the pain because He loved Judas and knew that His betrayal was a necessary part of the redemptive plan.

The sins that destroyed Judas are common sins that we must avoid at all costs! We should use every opportunity and privilege God gives us, and never take advantage of His patience.

  Grove Oak Church