Lessons from Judas one who Betrayed Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Fourteenth Week :  Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 10:1-7*

*First Reading : Gn 41:55-57; 42:5-7a, 17-24a*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 33:2-3, 10-11, 18-19*

*Lessons from Judas one who Betrayed Jesus*

*1) Who Was Judas Iscariot?*

Judas was one of the 12 apostles (Matthew 10:4), chosen by Jesus Himself.

He acted as the group’s treasurer (John 12:6).

He is infamous for betraying Jesus for 30 pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14–16).

*2) Why Is Judas’s Betrayal Included in Scripture?*

*Fulfillment of Prophecy* : Judas’s betrayal was not a surprise to Jesus—it was part of God's plan foretold in Scripture.

Zechariah 11:12–13 – Predicts the 30 pieces of silver and its later use to buy a potter’s field (fulfilled in Matthew 27:3–10).

God’s sovereignty works even through human failure. Judas’s actions, though wicked, did not derail God’s plan—they revealed it.

*3) A Warning Against Hypocrisy and Hidden Sin*

Judas walked with Jesus, heard His teachings, saw His miracles—yet he never truly believed (John 6:64).

He kept up appearances, but harbored greed (John 12:6).

Ultimately, he chose money over the Messiah.

External closeness to Jesus is not the same as internal surrender. 

Judas reminds us that a religious life without a transformed heart is empty—and dangerous.

*4) The Reality of Human Free Will*

Judas was not forced to betray Jesus. He made choices—gradually.

He allowed sin to grow.

He opened the door for Satan (Luke 22:3).

Sin grows when left unchecked. Judas didn't fall suddenly—he slid into betrayal through small compromises.

*5) Contrast Between Judas and Peter*

Both failed Jesus. Judas betrayed Him; Peter denied Him.

But Peter wept and repented (Luke 22:62; John 21:15–19).

Judas, full of guilt, despaired without turning to God (Matthew 27:3–5).

The difference wasn’t in the depth of sin, but in their response to grace. 

Forgiveness is available, but it must be accepted.

*6) Spiritual Lessons from Judas’s Life*

God’s plan is not defeated by human sin

Sin is often subtle before it is scandalous : Judas’s love of money and dishonesty were small sins that grew. We must guard our hearts and confess sin early (Proverbs 4:23)

Grace must be received, not just offered : Judas felt remorse but never turned to Jesus for mercy. Guilt without repentance leads to death; guilt with repentance leads to healing (2 Cor. 7:10).

No position or ministry protects from spiritual ruin : Judas reminds us that being "in ministry" or "in church" doesn’t guarantee salvation. True discipleship means surrendering the heart, not just playing a role.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*