How can we apply the lesson of Judas' selection to our spiritual communities? Setting the Scene: John 6:70 “Jesus answered them, ‘Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!’ ” (John 6:70) TRuth 1: Christ Chooses for His Own Purposes • Scripture repeatedly shows God accomplishing His plan through both faithful servants and those who ultimately reject Him (Romans 9:17). • Judas’ presence fulfilled prophecy (John 13:18; Acts 1:16–17). • Awareness that the Lord may allow difficult people in our fellowship guards us from surprise or disillusionment. TRuth 2: Proximity to Jesus Does Not Guarantee Genuine Faith • Judas heard every sermon and witnessed every miracle, yet his heart remained unchanged. • John 6:64 notes that “from the beginning Jesus knew who did not believe.” • Application: spiritual activity and leadership roles never substitute for a transformed heart (Matthew 7:21-23). TRuth 3: False Disciples Reveal Themselves Over Time • Judas’ betrayal unfolded gradually—first greed (John 12:4-6), then secret dealings (Matthew 26:14-15). • 1 John 2:19 describes similar departures: “They went out from us, but they did not belong to us.” • Application: patient vigilance allows time for true character to surface; immediate judgment is not always possible. TRuth 4: A Mixed Community Tests and Strengthens the Faithful • Jesus kept Judas among the Twelve, teaching the others to rely on Him, not on perfect human company. • The parable of the weeds underscores this principle: “Let both grow together until the harvest” (Matthew 13:30). • Application: when faults emerge in the body, believers can grow in discernment, grace, and perseverance. Practical Applications for Today • Cultivate discernment through steady intake of Scripture (Hebrews 5:14). • Prioritize heart transformation over mere activity; leaders model repentance and accountability. • Establish transparent stewardship practices, remembering Judas carried the moneybag without oversight (John 12:6). • Practice church discipline biblically and lovingly when sin becomes evident (Matthew 18:15-17). • Anchor hope in Christ’s sovereignty; the existence of a Judas never thwarts God’s plan (Genesis 50:20). Encouraging One Another in Watchfulness • Regular self-examination: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Mutual encouragement: “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). • Alert prayerfulness: “Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion” (1 Peter 5:8). • Continual gospel focus keeps affection for Christ fresh, reducing the lure of betrayal for temporary gain. Remembering Judas’ selection helps spiritual communities remain humble, vigilant, and confident that even imperfect fellowships can glorify God when they cling to the faithful Savior who knows the end from the beginning. |
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