Knowing The Word in Luke 22:3-6

Judas to Betray Jesus

22:3 Then Satan entered into Judas called Iscariot, who was of the number of the twelve. 4 He went away and conferred with the chief priests and officers how he might betray him to them. 5 And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. 6 So he consented and sought an opportunity to betray him to them in the absence of a crowd.

Comments

Luke explains Judas’ treachery as the action of Satan, which puts him in agreement with John’s gospel. Judas now takes the initiative. He is not sought out, but he goes to the chief priests and betrays the trust of Jesus, who had made him part of the inner circle. Judas solved their problem and was rewarded. Yet they will need to wait, because arresting Jesus away from the crowd is most important to the chief priests.

Application

Do you think Jesus was surprised by Judas’s actions or did he know all along that Judas would betray him? The history of the church includes many betrayals. Is there something in this passage that can inform us on how to react to betrayal in the church?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, in spite of knowing his future betrayal, you keep Judas party of your inner circle. Guard my heart and mind such that I will never betray you.