Mark 14:1-2, 10-21

The Betrayal of Judas

The account of Judas is infamous (so much so that he ruined an entire name!) -> we need to see the dangers this account warns us of

There was a progression that led to Judas’ betrayal of Jesus, and it started with greed (Jn. 12:4-6)

Greed is never viewed as a good thing, but it is also rarely discussed as the evil that it truly is (Heb. 13:5; Col. 3:5)

It is among the worst sins we could commit, and it is as common as telling a “white lie” (alongside pride, the catalyst for most sins)

This greed opened Judas’ heart for evil, ultimately leading to more temptation and ultimately demonic possession (Jn. 13:2, 27)

Judas was not forced into betraying Jesus, nor was he a victim in the matter -> his pursuit of greed and idolatrous self-worship led to this

Judas was not a Christian who lost his salvation, nor was he a backslidden Christian -> all signs indicate that his pursuit of Christ was selfish and never genuine

As a point of emphasis, we once again must note that the account of Judas is warning against many things, greed being at the top of the list

The Preparation of the Passover Meal

This account is very similar to the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem -> this is another supernatural display from Jesus

The timing of the passover is of great significance -> Jesus is our passover lamb

When the eternal judgment of God comes our way, it passes over all to whom the blood of the Lamb is applied, just like in Egypt

Not by merit, nor any individual trait of the individual, but entirely because of the blood of the Lamb

Sharing a meal in their culture was a very intimate experience, and the Passover was even more so -> it is the most celebrated Jewish custom

vv. 17-20 highlight just how heinous the actions of Judas were -> it was the betrayal of a friend (Ps. 41:6-9)

We think of Judas as more of a figure and type than a person -> this was someone Jesus counted as a friend -> real emotional distress here!

The betrayal of Judas was not expected by anyone except Jesus Himself -> the news that betrayal was afoot was a complete and terrifying shock

In their questioning, a beautiful display of humility is seen -> it is one we need to learn from!

When sin is within grasp, we have to seek our refuge in the Lord and never assume ourselves immune to its influence -> Peter forgot this lesson quickly!

It would be better for Judas to have never been born -> an eternal non-existence is far better than eternal condemnation

It is this reason why the lost seek total destruction as opposed to the wrath of God in the day of judgement!

This shows the full accountability that Judas wears for his actions

The betrayal of Christ at the hands of Judas is a tale of extreme heartache caused by one with extreme greed,

It adds a layer of depth to the suffering of Jesus, and it is cemented in God’s word as our warning!