What can we learn about discernment from Jesus choosing the twelve, including Judas? Setting the Scene: Jesus and the Twelve • Luke 6:12-13 sets the backdrop: “In those days, Jesus went out to the mountain to pray, and He spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also designated apostles.” • From the outset, the selection of the Twelve is saturated in prayer and guided by the Father’s will, demonstrating that discernment is birthed in communion with God. • Among those chosen is Judas Iscariot—fully known to Jesus, yet still appointed. Key Verse: John 6:70 “Jesus answered them, ‘Did I not choose you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!’” Discernment Lesson 1: Divine Sovereignty Over Human Choices • Jesus’ words affirm His deliberate, informed choice; there is no mistake or oversight in God’s plan. • Acts 1:16 underscores this: “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through the mouth of David concerning Judas…” • Discernment starts with acknowledging that God’s wisdom surpasses our own (Proverbs 3:5-6). Even when we cannot see the full tapestry, He is weaving His purposes perfectly. Discernment Lesson 2: Recognizing Hidden Realities • Jesus saw beneath appearances: “I know whom I have chosen” (John 13:18). • True discernment involves distinguishing between outward allegiance and inward reality (2 Timothy 3:5). • 1 John 2:19 reminds us that not everyone who begins with us will finish with us, and their departure clarifies the truth: “Their departure made it clear that none of them belonged to us.” Discernment Lesson 3: Patience in Process • Jesus allowed Judas to remain for three years, sharing ministry, miracles, and meals. • Discernment is not always swift exposure; sometimes it means waiting for fruit to appear. Matthew 13:30’s parable principle—“Let both grow together until the harvest”—is modeled here. • Patience guards us from rash judgments while keeping us alert to eventual outcomes. Discernment Lesson 4: Purpose in Allowing Opposition • Judas’ betrayal fulfills prophecy (Psalm 41:9; John 13:18) and propels the redemptive plan (Matthew 26:24). • God can use even a traitor to accomplish salvation’s story; discernment therefore recognizes that opposition may carry divine purpose. • Romans 8:28 is vividly illustrated: “all things” truly do work together for good—even the darkest acts. Practical Takeaways for Today • Pray first, decide second. If Jesus spent the night in prayer before selecting leaders, we should soak every decision in the same dependence (James 1:5). • Test character over time. Look for enduring fruit, not momentary flashes (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Trust God’s bigger picture. When someone disappoints or betrays, remember that the Lord is neither surprised nor hindered. • Stay humble. Jesus’ foreknowledge did not make Him cynical; He continued to love, teach, and serve Judas. Discerning truth never excuses withholding grace. |
    |