How should believers respond to betrayal, following Jesus' example in Luke 22:21? The Setting at the Passover Table “Indeed, the Son of Man will go as it has been determined. But woe to that man who betrays Him.” (Luke 22:22) Recognizing Betrayal • Judas was not an outsider; he was part of the inner circle, sharing bread with Jesus (Psalm 41:9). • Betrayal hurts precisely because it comes from someone close. Scripture presents it as a real, historical event, reminding us that believers will face similar wounds (2 Timothy 3:12). Jesus’ Response in the Moment • Calm awareness—Jesus names the betrayal without rage: “Behold, the hand of him who betrays Me is with Me on the table.” (Luke 22:21) • Continued fellowship—He does not eject Judas; love remained open until the end (John 13:1). • Submission to the Father’s plan—He views the betrayal through the lens of divine purpose, not personal vindication (Acts 2:23). Principles for Our Response • Acknowledge the hurt honestly; Scripture never minimizes sin. • Refuse retaliation. “Do not repay anyone evil for evil.” (Romans 12:17) • Trust God’s justice. “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay.” (Romans 12:19) • Keep loving. “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:28) • Stay mission-focused. Betrayal must not pull us off the path God assigns (Hebrews 12:2-3). Practical Steps Today 1. Speak truth, not gossip—address the issue privately when possible (Matthew 18:15). 2. Guard your heart—reject bitterness; “Let all bitterness … be put away from you” (Ephesians 4:31). 3. Extend forgiveness—an act of obedience, not feeling (Colossians 3:13). 4. Pray for the betrayer—aligns your heart with Christ’s (Luke 23:34). 5. Maintain wise boundaries—Jesus no longer entrusted Himself to Judas once the deed was set in motion (John 13:27-30). Strength for the Journey • 1 Peter 2:21-23—Christ “entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” • Proverbs 20:22—“Do not say, ‘I will avenge this evil!’ Wait on the LORD.” • Matthew 5:44-45—love and prayer mark children of the Father. Living It Out Betrayal may pierce deeply, yet believers, following Jesus, respond with truth, love, and unwavering trust in the Father’s righteous plan. |
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