Untitled Sermon (29)

The Betrayal that Changed Everything

Bible Passage: Lk 22:1–6

Summary: In this passage, we witness the premeditation of Judas' betrayal as he conspires with the religious leaders, revealing the greed and darkness that can overshadow a disciple's heart. It demonstrates the human capacity for betrayal even in the presence of divine truth.

Application: This sermon can inspire Christians to reflect on their own lives and recognize how small compromises can lead to significant betrayals of faith or trust. It prompts self-examination about our loyalties and the price we are willing to pay for our convictions or temptations.

Teaching: The teaching focuses on the dangers of allowing greed and self-interest to guide our actions, contrasting the true discipleship that Jesus calls us to, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to Him, regardless of external pressures.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage serves to highlight how Jesus, fully aware of the betrayal to come, continues to set the stage for redemption. It shows the contrast between Judas' actions driven by greed and Christ’s unwavering purpose to save humanity, underscoring the theme of grace amidst our failures.

Big Idea: Betrayal reveals the depths of the human heart, yet God’s grace abounds to reclaim and redeem even the most wayward souls.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider examining the socio-political context in which Judas made his decision and what it reflects about human nature and ambition. Utilize Logos to study Jewish expectations of the Messiah and how those might have influenced Judas's actions. Investigate the theological implications of betrayal in light of scripture and how redemption is possible even after profound failures.

1. Seeking Sinister Solutions

Luke 22:1–2 ESV

Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread drew near, which is called the Passover. And the chief priests and the scribes were seeking how to put him to death, for they feared the people.

You could emphasize how the chief priests and scribes sought to kill Jesus due to their fear and anger, demonstrating how sin and selfish ambition can make individuals blind to the truth and lead to corrupt decisions. Perhaps this point can serve as a reminder that our own desires and fears can sometimes blind us to God's will, calling us to seek alignment with His purposes.

2. Satan’s Subtle Suggestion

Luke 22:3–4 ESV

Then Satan entered into Judas called Iscariot, who was of the number of the twelve. He went away and conferred with the chief priests and officers how he might betray him to them.

Perhaps you could explore the moment when Satan enters Judas, illustrating the spiritual vulnerability created by unresolved greed and discontent. This could be a moment to encourage self-examination, urging individuals to protect their hearts against influences that draw them away from Christ. Judas's downfall serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of jilting faith for material gain.

3. Selling Sacred Soul

Luke 22:5–6 ESV

And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. So he consented and sought an opportunity to betray him to them in the absence of a crowd.

Maybe you could highlight Judas's willingness to betray Jesus for money as an illustration of how easily loyalty can be compromised. This can serve as a challenge to ensure that our loyalty to Christ is unwavering, even when faced with lucrative or tempting alternatives. It’s in recognizing our own moments of weakness that we can truly appreciate the grace offered by Christ.

Consider…

What does Judas’s betrayal reveal about human nature and our capacity for sin?

2. How can we guard our hearts against the influences that led to Judas's betrayal?

3. What practical steps can we take to ensure our faith remains strong in the face of temptation?