The Tragedy of Judas

Charles Spurgeon, et al.

(You will find it helpful to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Luke 22:48, "Jesus asked him: Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?"

The name Judas chills the heart. His story is one of the most tragic in all of Scripture. Here was a man who walked with the Lord of Glory, beheld His miracles, heard His gracious words, and yet ended up in Hell. His life is a solemn warning to all who profess the name of Christ, but whose hearts remain unchanged by grace. Judas was a devil from the beginning, though he pretended to be a saint.

The life of Judas warns us that it is possible to be near Jesus, yet never truly know Him. External religion, without inward regeneration, is damning. Many serve in ministries, and even carry the name "Christian"--but have never truly been born again. Judas reminds us that one can be near to the Light, and yet love darkness still. Hell is full of people who regularly sat in churches!

The life of Judas also warns us of the danger of a divided heart. Though he followed Jesus outwardly, he loved money in his heart. The money-loving traitor sold his Master for the price of a slave. How cheaply men sell their souls, when they love the world! His love of money, gradually choked out all love for Jesus. So it is with all sin. What begins as a small indulgence, if left unchecked, hardens the heart and blinds the eyes.

Finally, Judas is a dreadful picture of remorse without genuine repentance. After his betrayal, "he was seized with remorse... and returned the thirty silver coins." But remorse is not repentance. Feeling sorry for sin, is not the same as fleeing to the Savior. Many weep over the consequences of sin, but never grieve over offending a holy God.

"Woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born." Matthew 26:24

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