Who Betrayed Jesus
Share
Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.
Please briefly explain why you feel this question should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this answer should be reported.
Please briefly explain why you feel this user should be reported.
The Gospels of the New Testament are filled with stories of Jesus and his ministry. One of the most relevant and poignant stories from the Gospels is that of Jesus’ betrayal by Judas, one of his own chosen disciples. It is a story of loyalty and betrayal, of courage and cowardice, and of faith and treachery.
Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve Apostles selected by Jesus to carry out his mission, is typically seen as the betrayer of Jesus. There are several accounts of Judas’ betrayal in the Gospels. According to the Gospels, after a Passover meal, Jesus and his disciples made their way to a Garden of Gethsemane where Judas agreed to hand him over to the authorities in exchange for money.
The Gospel of John identifies Judas as the one who betrayed Jesus. In the book of Matthew, Judas is described as one who was “filled with regret” and ultimately went and hanged himself. It is not explicitly said why Judas betrayed Jesus, but according to some biblical scholars, it could have been for money or even for political reasons.
At the moment of Jesus’ arrest, Judas is said to have kissed him in order to identify Jesus to the authorities. This act of betrayal was not only an act of disloyalty, but also an act of tremendous cowardice and lack of faith. Judas may have thought that he was doing the right thing, but it ultimately ended up being the worst act that could be done to his beloved master.
While Judas may be remembered as the betrayer of Jesus, it is important to also remember that he was one of Jesus’ own disciples. Jesus, in knowing of Judas’ impending betrayal, said to the other disciples “One of you is a devil”. While Judas’ betrayal was a great betrayal, what Jesus did in the face of that betrayal was much greater. He demonstrated unconditional love and forgiveness towards Judas, and the other disciples, even in His darkest hour.
As we reflect on Jesus’ betrayal by Judas, we should be reminded of the selflessness and grace of Jesus, who even in his greatest time of suffering, was still capable of loving and forgiving. We should also remember Judas and his own failings, but honour him for the courage he showed in attempting to give up Jesus for an uncertain motive.