Few figures in Scripture trouble us like Judas Iscariot. His name once carried honor—many Jewish boys were named after Judas Maccabaeus, the hero of Jewish independence. But Judas Iscariot’s story took a darker path. He may have expected Jesus to lead a revolution, and when Jesus made it clear He would suffer rather than overthrow Rome, Judas’ hopes collapsed. Scripture also tells us he was a thief, the only Judean among the Twelve, and at times influenced by evil. Much about him remains unknown. Yet Jesus knew all of this and still called him friend. He must have seen something in Judas—perhaps even something redeemable.
Christians have long wrestled with Judas’ place in the story. Some traditions condemn him harshly; others acknowledge the mystery. Scripture does not reveal his eternal fate. What we do know is that Judas’ betrayal fulfilled prophecy and played a crucial role in Holy Week. And so we ask: Why did God choose even Judas?
Scripture Summary
John 13:18
“I know those I have chosen.”
Isaiah 50:4–9a
The Servant remains obedient despite rejection, trusting God’s vindication—foreshadowing Jesus’ willingness to face betrayal.
Matthew 26:14–25
Judas agrees to betray Jesus, and at the Last Supper Jesus reveals that one of His own will hand Him over—fully aware of what is unfolding.
John 6:71
Jesus identifies Judas as His betrayer, showing Judas’ presence among the Twelve was intentional, not accidental.
John 12:5–6
Judas criticizes Mary’s devotion, revealing his divided heart and his habit of stealing from the money bag.
Psalm 41:9
A prophetic lament about betrayal by a close friend, anticipating Jesus’ experience.
John 13:18–22
Jesus quotes Psalm 41:9 and affirms that Scripture will be fulfilled through His betrayal. Even in darkness, He remains in control.
Message: There is a quiet ache in Judas’ story. Jesus chose him—fully aware of his weaknesses, divided loyalties, and eventual betrayal. Yet Jesus welcomed him into the Twelve, entrusted him with responsibility, washed his feet, and gave him a place of honor at the table. Judas reminds us that being near Jesus is not the same as surrendering to Him, and that even those who walk closely with Christ can harbor hidden resistance. Still, Jesus loved him to the end. But why would Jesus choose someone who would wound Him so deeply? Scripture reveals several layers of grace. Jesus chose Judas to fulfill what had been foretold, showing that God’s plan is never derailed by human sin. He chose Judas to expose the reality of brokenness—even among the religious—and to teach that discipleship is more than activity; it is the surrender of the heart. He chose Judas to demonstrate that God’s love extends even to those who oppose Him, and that the path to the cross—the path of our redemption—would run straight through betrayal. Judas’ presence is no accident. His story reminds us that Jesus is not afraid of messy people or complicated hearts. He steps into our brokenness not to condemn but to call us to life. And He shows us that even the darkest moments can become the doorway through which God brings salvation.
And So, together, these passages show that Jesus’ betrayal was foreseen, Judas’ character was known, and Jesus chose him as part of God’s larger redemptive plan—one that reveals both the depth of human brokenness and the steadfast love of Christ.
Pray that we never betray Jesus. Pray that we see clearly and resist greed. Pray that we trust God to deal with our enemies—especially the ones within us. Pray that we cling to Jesus, who holds all things together when life feels like it is falling apart. Pray that we walk in the light and live in the hope of resurrection. Pray that God helps us love others with the same patient, steadfast love Jesus showed—even to Judas.
Blessings,
John Lawson
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