Text: Luke 22:1-7, John 13:1-2, Luke 4:13, Matthew 26:1-16.
How does someone like Judas Iscariot become a betrayer? He probably left a good job to follow Jesus. Luke 22:1-7 says that satan entered Judas. There had to be steps in between that led to this terrible end.
We usually talk about the types of soil in terms of planting good seed (God's Word). However, the enemy can also plant seed in good soil. When satan left Jesus, he planned to come back at an opportune time. Yes, satan is keenly aware of opportunities. He doesn't have to create them. Life gives opportunities.
In Matthew 26:1-16, we see the story of the woman pouring the alabaster box of ointment on Jesus' head. All the disciples saw it, but one spoke out his displeasure - Judas Iscariot. Wrong seed can be sown in good ground without satan entering. I Peter 5:8 says, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." Satan jumps at the opportunity.
What reason did Judas Iscariot have to be dissatisfied?
He had the best shepherd (Jesus).
He had responsibility (was the ministry's treasurer).
He received the best teaching (from Jesus).
His needs were met.
He had ministry opportunities.
What did he lack?
A place to call home. (They constantly traveled.)
Someone to follow his plans. (He had his ideas of how Jesus should come into his kingdom.)
He probably made more money before following Jesus.
Others received more attention than him.
Ungrateful, unthankful thoughts accelerate the growth of bad seed. As faith gets God's attention, ungratefulness gets the devil's attention.
To hear the full message, check out the website. You can listen via the sermon player, download it to your MP3, or podcast. Please note: It might take some time for the message to appear on the site.
1 comment:
Please look again at the text, for there is more going on than meets the eye. For example Paul let's us know in 1st Cor. that Judas is still alive with the other disciples at table, along with Jesus. This is coroborrated by comparing the 2nd and 4th Gospels. Additionally, the story of Judas, one of a brotherhood of 12 who was rejected by his brethren, mirrors the story of Joseph, in Genesis. Can we get a rethink on Judas?
Post a Comment