How does Luke 22:5 illustrate the power of greed and betrayal? Scripture Focus “ They were delighted and agreed to give him money.” ‑ Luke 22:5 Backdrop of the Conspiracy • Judas Iscariot seeks out the chief priests (vv. 3-4). • The religious leaders, already plotting murder (Luke 22:2), find in Judas the perfect accomplice. • A simple transaction—silver for a soul—sets the betrayal in motion (cf. Matthew 26:14-16; Zechariah 11:12-13). Greed’s Gripping Influence • Love of money opens the door to Satan (1 Timothy 6:10; compare Luke 22:3). • Judas had nursed covetousness long before this night (John 12:4-6). • The priests, too, reveal their own greed—protecting privilege and power rather than embracing Messiah (John 11:48). From Covetous Thought to Treacherous Act 1. Desire takes root: Judas “kept” the money bag and “helped himself” (John 12:6). 2. Opportunity appears: leaders “were delighted” (Greek: chairō—rejoiced) to find a willing traitor. 3. Agreement is struck: thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15). 4. Betrayal unfolds: a kiss in the garden (Luke 22:47-48). 5. Consequences crash in: remorse without repentance, ending in suicide (Matthew 27:3-5; Acts 1:18). Warning Lights for Our Hearts • Small compromises can snowball into catastrophic sin (James 1:14-15). • Religious activity does not immunize against greed (Mark 12:40). • Hidden idols enslave: “You cannot serve God and money” (Luke 16:13). Christ’s Response to Betrayal • Foreknows yet submits (Luke 22:21-22). • Offers final appeals—“Friend, do what you came for” (Matthew 26:50). • Uses evil for redemptive purpose: the cross, salvation, and ultimate victory (Acts 2:23-24). Hope for the Greedy and Betrayer • Peter denies yet is restored (John 21:15-17)—proof that repentance is welcomed. • Zacchaeus turns from extortion to generosity (Luke 19:8-10). • The gospel breaks greed’s chains, filling hearts with Christ Himself (Philippians 3:8). Luke 22:5 shows that when greed partners with hardened hearts, betrayal follows—yet even this dark moment is woven into God’s saving plan, calling each of us to examine our motives, turn from covetousness, and cling to the Faithful One who never betrays. |
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