Lessons from Judas' false greeting?
What can we learn about false intentions from Judas' greeting, "Greetings, Rabbi"?

The Scene in the Garden

“Going directly to Jesus, he said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed Him.” (Matthew 26:49)


A Polite Greeting, Poisoned Motive

• Judas approaches with the standard Jewish salutation—warm, respectful, familiar.

• The title “Rabbi” acknowledges Jesus as teacher but sidesteps the deeper confession of “Lord” (cf. Matthew 26:22,25).

• The kiss, normally a sign of affection, becomes a signal to arrest. (Luke 22:48)


What False Intentions Look Like

• Friendly words can cloak hostility.

– “His speech is smooth as butter, but war is in his heart.” (Psalm 55:21)

• Actions that appear loving may serve self-interest.

– “The kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” (Proverbs 27:6)

• Flattery distracts from hidden agendas.

– “A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.” (Proverbs 29:5)

• Public closeness to Jesus does not guarantee private loyalty. Judas was in the inner circle.

• Using correct religious language (“Rabbi”) is no substitute for genuine surrender. (Matthew 7:21)


Clues That Expose a False Heart

• Consistent refusal to call Jesus “Lord.” Judas never does; the other disciples do.

• Sudden demonstrations of affection when advantage can be gained.

• Speech that sounds honorable yet leads to sin for someone else.

• Patterns of secrecy—Judas had already arranged the betrayal in private (Matthew 26:14-16).


Why the Lord Allows Such Moments

• To reveal what is already in a person’s heart. (Proverbs 26:24-26)

• To warn the faithful that betrayal can come from the familiar.

• To contrast counterfeit love with Christ’s genuine, sacrificial love.


Guarding Our Own Hearts

• Let words and obedience match. “If anyone says, ‘I know Him,’ but does not keep His commandments, he is a liar.” (1 John 2:4)

• Refuse to use spiritual language as camouflage; submit to Jesus as “Lord,” not merely “Teacher.”

• Ask the Spirit to expose mixed motives before they mature into betrayal.

• Value honest rebuke from true friends over flattering kisses from hidden enemies. (Proverbs 27:6)


Living the Lesson

Judas’ “Greetings, Rabbi!” reminds us that sincerity is measured not by tone, gesture, or title but by a heart surrendered to Christ. May our greetings—and every other word—spring from undivided loyalty to the One who already knows what is in man.

How does Judas' betrayal in Matthew 26:49 challenge your understanding of loyalty?
Top of Page
Top of Page