A lesson from Judas
Once, in the time when Jesus walked the earth, there was a man named Judas Iscariot. He was chosen by Jesus Himself to be one of His twelve disciples, entrusted with the privilege of being close to the Son of God.
Matthew 10:4 - “Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.”
Judas witnessed countless miracles, heard profound teachings, and was part of a dynamic community of believers led by Jesus, the greatest Pastor the world has ever known. However, despite being in the midst of such spiritual richness, Judas’ heart was not fully committed to the Lord.
Scripture reference: John 12:4-6 - “But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, ‘Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?’ He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it.”
Judas allowed greed and deception to take root in his heart, leading him down a path of betrayal. Despite being in the presence of divine wisdom and love, his inner motives were corrupted, making him susceptible to becoming a friend of the Devil.
John 13:2 - “During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him.”
Judas’ story serves as a poignant reminder that outward appearances and even participation in a vibrant church community led by an amazing pastor are not enough if our hearts are not fully surrendered to the Lord. The condition of our hearts determines the course of our lives and whether we align with God’s will or fall prey to the enemy’s schemes.
Matthew 7:21-23 - “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”
The story of Judas Iscariot serves as a stark reminder that mere proximity to spiritual greatness does not guarantee true devotion. Despite being part of a dynamic church led by Jesus Himself, Judas’ heart was not fully committed to the Lord. This challenges us to examine our own hearts and ensure that our faith is genuine and our devotion unwavering, seeking to honor and follow God wholeheartedly in all aspects of our lives.
Fifty years ago, I committed my life to serving the Lord. I hold an associate degree in Christian education and a bachelor’s degree in Christian counseling. In my retirement, I focus on studying and sharing the teachings of God’s Word with others. I maintain three Facebook pages dedicated to spreading the Word of God. To contact me or share your thoughts, email hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com.
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service (1 Timothy 1:12)