Topical Encyclopedia Judas Iscariot, one of the most enigmatic figures in the New Testament, is known primarily for his role as the betrayer of Jesus Christ. His surname, "Iscariot," is often thought to indicate his place of origin, possibly referring to Kerioth, a town in Judea. This distinguishes him from the other Judas among the Twelve Apostles, Judas son of James, also known as Thaddeus.Chosen as an Apostle Judas Iscariot was chosen by Jesus to be one of the Twelve Apostles, a group of close disciples who were entrusted with spreading the message of the Kingdom of God. This selection is recorded in the synoptic Gospels, where Jesus calls each of the apostles by name. In the Gospel of Mark, it is written: "He appointed twelve, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons" (Mark 3:14-15). Judas Iscariot is listed among these chosen few, indicating that he was initially a trusted member of Jesus' inner circle. Role and Responsibilities As an apostle, Judas shared in the responsibilities and privileges of the group. He was present for many of Jesus' teachings and miracles, witnessing firsthand the power and compassion of the Messiah. The Gospel of John notes that Judas was entrusted with the group's finances, serving as the keeper of the money bag (John 12:6). This role suggests a level of trust and responsibility placed upon him by Jesus and the other disciples. The Betrayal Despite his close association with Jesus, Judas Iscariot is most infamously known for his betrayal. The Gospels recount how Judas agreed to betray Jesus to the religious authorities in exchange for thirty pieces of silver. This act of treachery was foretold in the Scriptures, fulfilling prophecies such as those found in Psalm 41:9: "Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me" . The betrayal culminated in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Judas identified Jesus to the arresting soldiers with a kiss, a gesture of friendship that became a symbol of his duplicity. This event set in motion the series of trials and crucifixion of Jesus, central to the Christian narrative of redemption. Aftermath and Legacy The aftermath of Judas' betrayal is marked by his deep remorse and tragic end. According to the Gospel of Matthew, Judas attempted to return the silver to the chief priests and elders, declaring, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood" (Matthew 27:4). Overcome with guilt, Judas took his own life, a somber conclusion to his story. Judas Iscariot's legacy is complex, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed, betrayal, and the human capacity for sin. His actions, while leading to the crucifixion, also played a part in the divine plan of salvation, as Jesus' death and resurrection are central to Christian belief. In Christian theology, Judas remains a figure of profound moral and spiritual lessons, reminding believers of the importance of faithfulness, repentance, and the grace of God. His story is a poignant reminder of the potential for redemption, even in the face of grave sin, and the enduring hope offered through Christ. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 10:4Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. Nave's Topical Index Mark 3:19 Luke 6:16 Acts 1:17 Library After Prayer Jesus Selects Twelve Apostles. Causes of Corruption Chiefly Intentional. List of Writers. From all Thy Saints in Warfare, for all Thy Saints at Rest The Choice of the Twelve The Foundation of the Church. Introduction The Disciples of Our Saviour. Letter vi. Temptation. The Disciples of Jesus. Resources Who was Judas Iscariot? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Judas betray Jesus? | GotQuestions.org How did Judas die? | GotQuestions.org Judas: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Judas (Jude): A Disciple Who Hosted Paul Judas (Jude): An Apostle, Probably Identical With Lebbaeus, or Thaddaeus Judas (Jude): of Galilee, Who Stirred up a Sedition Among the Jews Soon After the Birth of Jesus Judas (Jude): One of the Physical Half-Brothers of Jesus Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Barsabas": A Christian Sent to Antioch of Syria With Paul and Barnabas Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot" by his Bargaining to Betray Jesus for a Sum of Money Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot" by his Protest Against the Breaking of the Container of Ointment Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Betrays the Lord Jesus Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Chosen As an Apostle Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Hangs Himself Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": His Apostasy Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Prophecies Concerning Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": Returns the Money to the Rulers of the Jews Judas (Jude): Surnamed "Iscariot": The Treasurer of the Disciples Judas (Jude): The Brother of James and Probably the Writer of the Epistle of Jude Related Terms |
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