Betrayal

 N.T.#208 "Betrayal"

Dec. 21, 2023 

Matthew 17-Part 11

LET IT GLOW

Have you ever been betrayed? It seems the ultimate sin against you. A person you think you can trust gossips and tells others. It hurts, deeply hurts. Heart wrenching; cuts out your heart. So you learn who not to trust. Sometimes you go into a shell and do not share problems with others. Jesus was betrayed by one of His own disciples-Judas.

In verses 22-23, Jesus tells His disciples a second time what was about to happen to Him:

• He would be betrayed (yield up; to surrender; give (over, up).
• They would kill Him.
• The third day He shall be raised again.

Not only did Judas betray Jesus, but the priests betrayed Him, turning Jesus over to the Romans. There was no tenderness or pity, no honor or gratitude, but rage and hate shown toward Jesus. 

Jesus understood the direction that His life was taking. He knew His fate. It was no surprise to Him but under His sovereign control. It was in God's plan to provide salvation for believers back then and us today. His shedding of blood was the only way for atonement. Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin. No other way. Through it all, Jesus did not sin, so He was our perfect sacrifice for our sins. Isn't it amazing that Jesus could endure all the suffering and remain the sinless! 

LET IT GROW 

How did the disciples react? The were exceeding (in the high degree; much; greatly) sorry (distress; to be sad; grieve).

The disciples were greatly distressed and shocked, don't you know. However, His resurrection didn't register with them. Their love, loss, and grief was real for their friend. They would realize that it was their sin that caused Jesus to go through it. 

How about you, friend? Have you asked Jesus to forgive your sins and be your Lord and Savior? 

LET IT GO

Joy unto the world, the Lord has come. May people receive their King.

Help us trust You with all things.