Judas (Luke 22:1-6)

Luke 22:3 is a terrifying verse. Judas, one of the chosen 12 disciples, someone who had sat at Jesus’ feet for three years and been sent out, one who had healed the sick, proclaimed the gospel, and CAST OUT DEMONS, is possessed by Satan! How is this possible?

Of course, we know that God is in control and Judas had a role to play. We also know that Satan and Judas were exercising their free will and making decisions that God was bending to His purposes. That still does not negate the truth that someone close to Jesus could turn to the side of evil. That proximity to Christ is not a guarantee against choosing sin.

We have seen hints in the Gospels before now that Judas was prone to sins and disbelief. His is a good warning for all who want to follow Jesus. True faith is proven in its remaining. Toying with cherished sins and dangerous passions is not something we want to do. Our salvation does not depend on our own merits or actions, but we do not want to work against it either.