In verse 22, Jesus proclaims, "The Son of Man goes as it has been determined; but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!" This statement marks a pivotal moment, as Jesus specifically pronounces judgment on Judas, the betrayer. This is the first instance of a direct woe spoken to an individual in the Scriptures, contrasting with previous warnings given to groups or about broader circumstances, such as those directed at the Pharisees or the offenses in general.
Jesus emphasizes that Judas had many opportunities to recant or repent. If Judas had chosen to seek forgiveness, the outcome might have still led to Jesus' arrest, but the act of betrayal could have unfolded differently. Like Peter, who denied Jesus but later found forgiveness, Judas could have been redeemed. However, the tragic truth is that Judas was never truly part of Christ’s fold.
In verse 23, the disciples begin to inquire among themselves who among them would betray Jesus. Matthew 26:22 elaborates on their sorrow, as each disciple asks, "Lord, is it I?" This moment reveals that no one suspected Judas, highlighting that outward appearances can be deceptive. Jesus, however, sees beyond the outer persona to the heart of a person. No matter how well one presents themselves to the church or the world, God knows the true state of the heart.
Judas's error was in not recognizing Jesus as the divine Son of God; instead, he viewed Him merely as a good man. This flawed perception contributed to his betrayal. Afterward, when he realized the gravity of his actions, he admitted, "I have betrayed innocent blood," yet his understanding of who Jesus truly was remained limited. This lack of reverence and acknowledgment of Christ resulted in Judas taking actions that displayed a profound misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and purpose.
Moreover, Judas’s criticism of Mary for anointing Jesus with expensive oil exemplifies this disconnect. He chastised her for what he perceived as wastefulness, revealing his own priorities and material concerns over true devotion. Judas, like other religious opportunists who do not genuinely know Jesus, ultimately turned away when faced with challenges, demonstrating that true faith is rooted in understanding and relationship, rather than mere association or external performance. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the danger of superficial faith and the consequences of betrayal.
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