“When Jesus had said these things, He was troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.” Then the disciples looked at one another, perplexed about whom He spoke. Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask who it was of whom He spoke. Then, leaning back on Jesus’ breast, he said to Him, “Lord, who is it?” Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it. ” And having dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. Now after the piece of bread, Satan entered him. Then Jesus said to him, “What you do, do quickly.” But no one at the table knew for what reason He said this to him. For some thought, because Judas had the money box, that Jesus had said to him, “Buy those things we need for the feast,” or that he should give something to the poor. Having received the piece of bread, he then went out immediately. And it was night.”
John 13:21-30 NKJV
Judas Iscariot walked with Jesus, witnessed His miracles, and heard His teachings, prophecies, and warnings. Yet Judas did not belong to Jesus. Jesus knew Judas’ heart and knew His betrayal would fulfill Old Testament prophecy. Although Judas regretted his decision to betray Jesus, regret is not repentance. Judas did not seek forgiveness for his sin and reconciliation with God. His refusal to repent demonstrated his disbelief in Jesus as the Messiah and living Son of God.
To what lengths will you go to know Jesus? To what lengths will you go to share Jesus? When we draw near to Jesus, we will gain a humble clarity about ourselves and our desperate need for Him.
Father God, I thank You for Your love and passionate pursuit of me. Lord, help me to keep You elevated as the source of my love and devotion. Give me a hunger and a thirst to know You more through Your Word and to humbly obey Your commands. In Jesus’ name. Amen.