Read: Matthew 26:17-29
Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me. (v. 21)
Imagine the scene: Jesus had his friends around him. They were his beloved disciples, including Peter, full of fire and impulse. Peter’s brother Andrew was present as well, along with two brothers, James and John. Phillip, Bartholomew, Matthew the tax collector, Thomas the twin, Little James, Judas the Greater, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot also joined them that day. All dear friends and students of Jesus whom he had taught and trained. Constant companions for almost three years. Trusted. Cherished. Loved.
It was his final night on earth. He knew it but the disciples didn’t. Suddenly, the conversation took a dark turn. “As they were eating, [Jesus] said, ‘Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me’” (Matt. 26:21). The disciples were in disbelief. But not Jesus. He knew what had been foretold: “Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me” (Ps. 41:9; see John 13:18). Judas Iscariot, whom the Gospels say “Satan entered” (Luke 22:3; John 13:27), thus betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matt. 26:14-16). And yet, his betrayal teaches us an important lesson: nothing stops God’s plan of salvation for his people or ultimately separates us from his love in Christ (Rom. 8:38-39).
Rest assured that God’s love for you is steadfast. And when you place your eternity in the hands of his Son, that guarantees that your salvation is secure.
As you pray, be assured of God’s promise of salvation in Jesus.
About the Author
Lou Bury is the pastor at Downers Grove Community Church in Illinois. He has the pleasure of serving the Lord alongside a congregation committed to being “the hands and feet of Jesus in the community.” He and his wife Judy have two adult children and two granddogs.
