How could he
It was because of his pride.
Have you ever wondered why Judas betrayed Jesus?
Judas was the son of a rich Pharisee named Simon. Simon was the man Jesus healed of leprosy.
While Jesus was in Bethanyin the home of Simon the LeperMatthew 26:6 New International Version
Because Simon was a leper he could not enter his house or any land. That meant that Judas was responsible for taking care of the estate. While his father was away Judas ripped him off. The father decided he needed to learn how to behave so he was sent to Jesus. There he became Jesus’ treasurer and continued in his thieving ways.
Simon decided to give a banquet in honour of Jesus for healing him.
When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” Luke 7:39 New International Version
Enter Mary.
During the meal Mary anointed Jesus with the expensive oil. Judas became upset and was critical of Mary. This is the Mary that was a prostitute in Jerusalem and it was well known at the dinner who she was.
The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out Luke 8:2New International Version
Now after Mary’s beautiful act Judas became angry at her extravagance and criticized her.
But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” John 12:4-5. New International Version
Jesus puts him in his place in front of his father, the household, the guests and the other disciples.
“Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.” John 12:7-8 New International Version
Of course you can imagine Judas loses a lot of face and his pride is hurt especially him being a Pharisees son and in that culture. Now he wants revenge, and what is the ultimate shame in those days? Maybe a good beating by the Pharisees!! He knows the Pharisees are out to get Jesus and being a Pharisees son would have easy access to them, especially if it is to betray him. So he slithers of with injured pride for revenge. He will arrange the time and place for him to give what Judas believes is Jesus his due.
The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. John 13:.2 New International Version
Afterwards, he returns as if nothing had happened. Now being a disciple he knew where Jesus went to pray when in Jerusalem, so arranged it there because it was in a quiet place away from crowds that would protect Jesus. Being dark the guards from the Pharisees wanted to make sure they got the right man. Who would know who the right man was except Judas? So he gave the ultimate insult to Jesus, a kiss, which was a show of love and affection between friends and family.
Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. And Judas the traitor was standing there with them. John 18:2-3 New International Version
Can you imagine Judas with hate filled eyes sneering at Jesus? Of course being a Pharisees son he would be privileged to watch the kangaroo court, maybe laughing at Jesus. What did he think would happen to Jesus a beating and thrown out? Do you think he believed Jesus would face the extreme punishment?
When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.” “What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.” So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself. Matthew 27:3-5 New International Version Judas paid the ultimate price for his betrayal:hell. He could have gone back after Jesus' resurrection and asked for forgiveness like Peter did. Why don't you think he did? Could it have been pride?
Do you know that place still exists today?
Now think about yourself.
Is there somebody you want to get back at? Maybe they insulted you (perhaps even unknowingly).Are you angry because someone stole your boyfriend or girlfriend? Are you angry because someone is more popular than you or got better grades or a promotion or job you wanted?
Whatever the reason, you believe they must be punished and you are going to arrange it. Then when your revenge by another is being carried out by another you realize what a horrible mistake it was, but by then it is too late.
Maybe that will haunt you the rest of your life. Maybe it will ruin an innocent person’s life.
Is your revenge worth it then?
Be careful, your revenge may cost you more than your victim Joseph- Anthony: Green
Prayer: Please Holy Spirit; guide my heart away from the destruction pride and of wanting revenge. Help me be humble and to leave justice in Your righteous hands. In the name of the great judge, Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
May the sunshine of Jesus’ sweet love bless you today and every day.
