View source for Judas Iscariot - Matthew 26:47-56

== LESSON NOTES AND QUESTIONS ==

'''Summary:''' Last week our story ended with Jesus in distress and His closest friends couldn’t even stay awake to pray with Him. Tonight our story tells of another betrayal Jesus faced. In this passage, we witness the pivotal moment of Jesus' arrest, where betrayal is not only personal but also the climax of a divine plan. Judas arrives with a multitude, demonstrating that human instruments can be used in God's sovereign purpose, ultimately leading to the fulfillment of prophecy and salvation for humanity. In the face of betrayal and adversity, Christ's commitment to His mission underscores the transformative power of grace and faithfulness.

'''Application:''' Understanding this passage helps Christians navigate feelings of betrayal and moments of fear. It teaches us to trust in God's plan even when circumstances seem dire and we face opposition. It invites us to view our struggles through the lens of God's sovereignty, empowering them to respond with faith instead of fear. This passage also demonstrates how Jesus responds with grace despite the actions of those around Him, leading us to reflect on our own loyalties to Christ.

=== 1. Betrayed by a Friend ===
'''Mt 26:47-50'''

Judas Iscariot, one of the chosen 12, approached Jesus with a kiss and called Him Rabbi. Yet, even in a moment of betrayal, Jesus still displays love and calls Judas friend. Jesus' calm acceptance of this moment reflects His commitment to God's plan, reminding us that even our deepest wounds can become a part of God's redemptive work. This point suggests that despite the pain of betrayal, followers of Christ can find solace in their purpose and calling. Judas’s betrayal during this meal is especially poignant. While Jesus institutes the New Covenant through the symbols of bread and wine, Judas chooses to break covenantal loyalty. The contrast between Jesus offering Himself as the Passover Lamb and Judas’s treachery highlights the depth of human sin and the magnitude of divine grace.

'''QUESTION:'''  
* Judas’s betrayal was a significant part of God’s redemptive plan. How does this perspective change the way you view painful experiences or betrayals in your own life?  
* How does trusting in God’s sovereignty help you navigate moments of betrayal or broken relationships?  
* How might God use your experiences of hurt to bring healing or redemption to others?  
* Can you think of a time when a difficult situation led to spiritual growth or a deeper understanding of God’s purpose?

=== 2. Defiant Yet Divinely Directed ===
'''Mt 26:51-54'''  
'''John 18:10'''

This is one of Peter’s acts that made him known as impulsive when he draws his sword in an attempt to defend Jesus. This moment demonstrates the human instinct to retaliate in fear and confusion. However, Jesus' response highlights His peace and submission to God's will, teaching us to find strength not in force, but in faith and obedience. Jesus responds that He could call on 12 legions of angels to defend Him. A Roman legion was about 6,000 soldiers, 12 legions of angels could have been about 72,000 angels. Yet, as Jesus stated, it was not God’s will for Him to be rescued. Jesus’ response suggests that true spiritual strength lies in trusting God’s plans rather than relying on our own understanding.

'''QUESTION:'''  
* Can you identify situations in your life where you’ve reacted impulsively rather than prayerfully?  
* How might trusting in God’s plan help you respond with faith and obedience instead of fear or retaliation?  
* Jesus chose not to be rescued because it was not God’s will. How can you discern when to act and when to surrender to God’s plan in challenging circumstances?  
* Share an example of a time when you wanted immediate deliverance, but waiting on God’s will brought a better outcome.

=== 3. Composed in Crisis ===
'''Mt 26:55-56'''

Jesus acknowledged that these events fulfill Scripture, which demonstrated that God’s plan is unfolding precisely as intended. His confidence in God's overarching plan despite facing hostility challenges us to maintain our faith in God's sovereignty amid trials. This point suggests embracing a Christ-like spirit of courage and submission in our struggles, knowing they contribute to a greater purpose. Perhaps remind Christians that their struggles, when aligned with God's purpose, lead to ultimate restoration.

'''QUESTION:'''  
* Jesus faced hostility with calm assurance, knowing it was part of God’s plan. How can you remain confident in God’s sovereignty when facing opposition or trials?  
* What practical steps can you take to remind yourself that God’s plan is unfolding, even in difficult seasons?  
* In what ways can embracing a Christ-like attitude of courage and submission strengthen your faith during trials?  
* Reflect on a current or past struggle in your life. How might God be using it to refine you or contribute to His greater plan?  
* What Scriptures or promises of God can you meditate on to strengthen your faith when life feels overwhelming?