2. JESUS IS BETRAYED

Verses

Jesus said, “My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for.”

Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him.
— Matthew 26:50 (NLT)

He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies. He will be killed, but three days later he will rise from the dead.”
— Mark 9:31(NLT)

Matthew 26:14–16

Questions

What are other words or phrases that describe betrayal?
What are the ingredients that make up betrayal?
What does betrayal feel like?
Are you surprised or not that Jesus was betrayed by a close friend? Why?

Meditation

The path to betrayal often begins quietly.

In the Gospels there is a moment when a woman pours expensive perfume over Jesus’ head in an act of devotion. Some of the disciples are moved by the beauty of the moment. Others see only waste. They begin to question the direction Jesus is taking.

Shortly afterward, Judas goes to the authorities and asks what they will give him if he hands Jesus over. The price is thirty pieces of silver.

It does not take much for disappointment to turn into betrayal.

Many who followed Jesus expected a Messiah who would seize power, overthrow Rome, and restore Israel’s political strength. They hoped for victory that looked like wealth, security, and control.

Instead, Jesus spoke of loving enemies, forgiving sinners, and laying down His life.

When the kingdom of God did not look the way some expected, faith began to unravel.

Jesus partook in not being what others wanted Him to be.

The betrayal of Judas reveals something about the human heart. People often follow God as long as His purposes align with their own expectations. But when His ways lead toward humility, sacrifice, and surrender rather than power, the temptation arises to turn away.

Yet even in this moment Jesus does not resist the path before Him. He receives the betrayal and continues toward the cross.

The apostle Peter later reflected on Christ’s example:

“He never sinned,

    nor ever deceived anyone.”

 — 1 Peter 2:22 (NLT)

In the betrayal of Judas, the obedience of Christ remains unshaken.

The Church remembers the suffering of Christ with this prayer:

“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, we pray you to set your passion, cross, and death between your judgment and our souls.”
— Book of Common Prayer, p. 281