‘Judas’  – The name is synonymous with ‘betrayal’.  This shows that not all those who follow the crowd are part of that crowd.  Judas was not some kind of salivating maniac foaming at the mouth.  He was a disillusioned follower who had a love of money.  We see all the time that divided loyalties lead people away from the truth.  In this case the Jewish leaders receive an opportunity that they had not anticipated.

Luke 22:1-6

¹ Now the Festival of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching, ² and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people. ³ Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. ⁴ And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. ⁵ They were delighted and agreed to give him money. ⁶ He consented, and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present.

Questions

1. Which festival was approaching?
2. How did the Jewish leaders feel about Judas’ proposal?
3. What was Judas’ motive?
4. How have divided loyalties ruined churches, relationships, and careers?
5. How does one remain faithful to Jesus when there are so many other important things to focus on?