How did Jesus respond to betrayal? Join Pastor Scott as he explores the story of Judas. Betrayal is painful, but it’s something we all face. Discover how to stand firm when trust is broken, and learn how God can use even betrayal for your good. See you there!
This Is My Story
March 30, 2025 | Pastor Scott George
Judas - A Story of Betrayal
Betrayal is one of the deepest wounds a person can experience, and no betrayal was greater than that of Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ own disciples. In Matthew 26:45-50, we see the heartbreaking moment when Judas, once a close companion, hands Jesus over with a kiss. This act serves as a powerful reminder that betrayal often comes from those we trust the most. How do we respond when we face betrayal? How do we stand firm in our faith when hurt by those closest to us?
Matthew 26:45-50,
45 Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”
47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” 49 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.
50 Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.” Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.
Judas – He shall be praised
What Others Are Saying About Betrayal
- “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken.” - C. S. Lewis
- “There is nothing worse than a friend betrayed. Not even an enemy can bring such pain.” - Euripides
- “True friends stab you in the front.” - Oscar Wilde
- “Be aware of your friends, not your enemies.” - Jean de La Fontaine
- "Each betrayal begins with trust." - Martin Luther
How to Stand Firm in the Face of Betrayal
1. Betrayal happens to everyone.
- Matthew 5:45, … that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
2. Betrayal happens by the people who praise you the most.
- Matthew 21:9, The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
Judah – Judas
3. Betrayal is meant to knock you off course.
- 2 Timothy 4:7, I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
4. Betrayal tries to shatter your faith in God and yourself.
- Hebrews 10:34-36, 34 You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. 35 So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. 36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.
5. Betrayal will disqualify you from accomplishing your mission.
- Revelation 21:14, The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
6. Betrayal can be used for good.
- Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Discussion Questions
- Have you ever been betrayed by someone you trusted? How did you respond?
- How can you find strength in God when facing betrayal?
- In what ways might God be using your pain for a greater purpose?
Final Thoughts
Judas’ story is a tragic one, but it serves as a lesson for us all. While betrayal is painful, it does not have to define us. Jesus endured the ultimate betrayal, yet He remained faithful to His mission. If you have experienced betrayal, take heart—God sees your pain and can use it to refine and strengthen you.
