Podcasts about Judas Iscariot

Sunday, 11 May 2025   Simon the Cananite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. Matthew 10:4    “Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, the ‘also having betrayed Him'” (CG).   In the previous verse, the list of the twelve named apostles continued with six names. The final two are mentioned next, beginning with, “Simon the Kananaios.”   The name Simon has been explained. The title that is given to him is Kananaios, sometimes translated as a Canaanite. At other times, it is translated as a Zealot or some other word indicating being zealous, like the word Patriot. The word is found only here and in Mark 3:18, again describing the same person. In Luke 6:15 and Acts 1:13, the same person is described with the word zélótés, to be zealous.   The reason for all the variances is that there is a dispute about where the word is derived from. One supposed root is the Hebrew word qanna, which means jealous. It is a word used six times in Exodus and Deuteronomy when referring to the Lord, speaking of His jealous nature. Some apply this root to indicate a zealous nature for the Lord.   That would make sense based on Luke's use of zélótés as a comparable meaning word. However, it is questionable if a title given only to the Lord would later be applied to people. If it were, it would be as an honorific, saying something like, “He has the Lord's jealousy guiding his life.”   However, as noted, others translate the word as Canaanite. This seems to be less preferable because he would have been a Jew, but it could be that he associated himself with the land of Canaan as being the home territory of the Jews and wanted to restore it to Jewish control. However, another word group is used in Greek to indicate Canaan. Thus, this translation is rather unlikely.   Another option is the occasional translation of this word as a Cananaean. That would mean he was from Cana of Galilee. This is not improbable. As it is a transliteration, this rendering doesn't do any harm. It simply gives an Anglicized rendering of the Greek.   Leaving the Greek directly transliterated into English avoids a mistranslation, and so that is what has been done here. Next, it says, “and Judas Iscariot.”   The name Judas is derived from the Hebrew Yehudah, meaning Judah. Judah was the fourth son of Jacob, born to Leah as recorded in Genesis 29:35.  His name means Praise. The name in Greek includes Jude, the author of the book of Jude. It is also translated as Judah in Matthew 1 and Luke 3. Each time, it is in Jesus' genealogy.   The title Iscariot is from the Greek Iskariótés. It is believed to be a transliteration from the Hebrew words ish, man, and qirya, city or town. Thus, he would be a man of the city or a man of Kerioth, a city in Israel noted four times in the Old Testament. If he were from Kerioth, he would be the only non-Galilean apostle because Kerioth was a city found in the territory of Judah. Of him, it next says, “the ‘also having betrayed Him.'”   He is introduced into Scripture with the sad epitaph attached to him. Later, using the word apóleia, meaning destruction, ruin, loss, etc., other than the antichrist, he is the only person called a son of perdition in Scripture –   “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.” John 17:12   “Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.” 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4   It is as if these two notorious men were born to be destroyed. Such is the nature of misusing one's freewill to work against the Lord.   Life application: The names of the apostles are recorded, some with descriptors to give further hints about their nature. From there, some of them will have various things said about them. Peter is recorded as having denied Jesus and been weak in his stand for proper doctrine, as recorded in Galatians 2.   Thomas is forever known as a doubter. He is used as an example of this quality today, such as, “Come on, man! Stop being a Doubting Thomas.” David is known as a man after God's heart. Jeremiah is known as the weeping prophet. Nabal the Carmelite is known as a fool.   We will all be remembered before others and before the Lord for how we conducted our lives. What is it that you want to be remembered for? “He was a faithful Christian.” “He was a loving father.” “He was one greedy dude.” Like the designation of these apostles, we are generally summed up with a very short thought when remembered by others. What few words do you expect people will remember you by?   Lord God, we are living our lives out before others and in Your presence. How will we be remembered when we are gone? Help us to consider this and to do our best to live our lives in a manner that will honor You and reflect the positive qualities of faithful followers of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Send us a textIn this episode, Pastor Tom Brown shares on how to handle toxic church members. We realize that Jesus Himself had a toxic member, Judas Iscariot. We will always have members who will give us problems. But we need to avoid condemnation. Thoughts will come to us how could someone act this way after teaching them the Word of God for a number of years.Don't get under condemnation if there are some church members who are giving you problems and they have not changed by now. It has nothing to do with you, as you are the sower. You can't make the seed grow but it depends on the heart of the recipient how the seed grows and produces fruit. Hebrews 5:12: "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food."Pastor, remember, when people get saved and come to your church, they are babes in Christ and will need milk. Those who are new in Christ are not toxic church members, but instead they need to grow in Christ. 1 Cor. 3:1: "And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ."When you have someone who has been saved for a number of years and they are still acting carnal and like a babe in Christ, we are possibly dealing with a toxic church member. What do you do to help them? As pastors, we need to be patient with church members and give them a chance to grow in Christ. We can't cut people off if they are not contributing to the growth of the church but we need to feed them. All church members should be growing in the Lord. A toxic church member is simply a carnal church member, a worldly church member, one who is letting their flesh gain the ascendancy over their life, rather than the Holy Spirit producing fruits like love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, humility, self-control and faithfulness.  Pastor Tom Brown will share characteristics of a toxic church member, along with Scripture. The most important thing for pastors is to be patient with everyone, but make sure above all things that you as a pastor will guard the unity in your church.

Delivered by Vici from the Parish of Saint John the Baptist in the Archdiocese of Jakarta, Indonesia. Acts of the Apostles 8: 1b-8; Rs psalm 66: 1-3a.4-5.6-7a; John 6: 35-40.TRUSTED PERSONS The title for our meditation today is:Trusted Persons. There was a teenager girl appeared depressed and silent inrecent days. She only wanted to be alone and did not want to talk to anybody.At school she didn't want to say hello to any. At home she spent her time inthe room alone. She disactivated her "online" activities in socialmedia, because she didn't want to be disturbed. There was not a single personwho came to be at her side in those days, except the Lord to whom she sharedeverything. In her prayers, she offered all herpain and disappointment to God. A friend she really trusted lied to her. Somefriends at school who she thought could help her, did not show up. Her motherand father at home and her siblings could not understand her actual situation.So she felt that she was indeed far from them all. Everyone she trusted turnedout to make her suffer so she thought that trust was very costly and should notbe taken for granted. When perhaps we are in the samesituation with that teenager, we really hope that as the believers andfollowers of the Lord Jesus, we must not be like Judas Iscariot who betrayed theMaster Jesus Christ. Whereas if the believers and followers of the Lord are likethe apostles and disciples of Jesus Christ, as described in the today's readingfrom Acts of the Apostles, certainly this is the true Christian testimony thatwe must follow. They were believers of Jesus Christ and members of the early Churchwho went through the whole country to preach the gospel. After their companionStephen was brutally murdered, their effort and enthusiasm as believers becameincreasingly strong and so encouraged. Jesus Christ declared his identity asthe "Bread of Life," and his apostles and disciples listened to it directly.They truly believed in this truth. Jesus asserted that through seeing andbelieving in Him as the one sent from the heavenly Father, they would have life.The apostles and disciples of Jesus listened and understood this teachingcorrectly. This is the true and good Word of God. They were the first faithfulto profes their faith in it. Therefore, when they shared and proclaimed it tomany others, these firsthand testimony of faith became valid and true evidencefor the growth of faith of those who heard and understood later. To become true and good believers, wereally need in the first time to make ourselves true and good people. The trueperson is the one who is credible or can be trusted in words and actions. He orshe is a sincere and honest person about himself or herself and his or herfellow neighbours. A good person is ethically and morally a fellow and friendwhose presence is very necessary to us. Are you included in this category of thetrusted persons? Let's pray. In the name of theFather ... O Lord Jesus Christ, may we be your people of faith in carrying outthe mission that you have entrusted to us in this world. Glory to the Fatherand to the Son and to the Holy Spirit ... In the name of the Father ...

Are You Willing To Follow Without Recognition Mark 3:16-19 16These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), 17James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), 18Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot 19and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

Luke 10:38-42 (Verse 42) Matthew 6:32-33; Matthew 6:19-21, 24 (Treasures in Heaven)This brief text underlines two main points: first, that Jesus looks to both men and women to be dedicated disciples; Second, that in our physical, societal lives our goals and priorities are more easily earthly, the heavenly goals are more difficult and ethereal. This is part of our fallen human nature and it's focus that's why the Gospels present such episodes our text where earthly practiced good duties are considered important but we should also include and make room for the spiritual and as difficult as it may be for us fallen humans, Christ's Kingdom and calling should be prioritized not only by full-time ministers, but for every believer and as I emphasized many times before, God promises to provide needed help( Matthew 6:32-33; Luke 11:3) This brief episode in Mary and Martha's (Lazarus sisters), lives demonstrates that what can distract us from our expected devotion to Christ, His calling and Kingdom are good, practical earthly things, in this case a cultural expectations for honorable women to prepare a feast for an honored rabbi; what would be wrong with this? But, this text interprets this good thing being done as a distraction(verse 40) in contrast to Mary's adoration of Jesus “... (sitting at the Lord's feet listening to what He said(His word)? While Martha was covering all the basis of societal, cultural expectations for such an event Mary seemed to not be doing her part for the honored guest and this bothered Martha. And she demanded that He command Martha to “help me”. Jesus' response to Martha is culturally counter intuitive in that society. Martha Martha… you are worried about many good things but compared to them there are more important things, summarized as only “a few or even one.” Mary has come up short for the expected societal demand, but has chosen what is better and even if the soup prepared gets cold, her taking time to worship Jesus will be accepted. This does not mean that Martha, Mary don't also have good earthly duties beyond hospitality and even more important societal responsibilities to family, careers, comfort, upward mobility, but these come also because they are not easily detectable distractions as to our calling from Christ. While we strive to not commit clear heinous sins that are obvious to all, there exist other demons behind the so-called respectable actions that take up too much of our time and energies and they then become a distraction to our relationship with God and our service to Him. Satan's temptation of Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4, Luke 4) included some good practical earthly suggestions for a fasting, starving Jesus: “Jesus turn the stones to bread, for you are physically hungry, this would be a good thing, even a good thing to do, but Jesus said No! (“It is written, humans and even Jesus, shall not live on bread alone (Luke 4:4).” It would have been a good thing but Jesus taking this road would have led to a distraction from His mission. Other stories of women ministry to Jesus make similar points: first, a sinful woman anoints Jesus feet with tears, even pouring expensive perfume on them in the supper at the Pharisee's house. Jesus becomes a display of repentance but for the Pharisee, this was a distraction from holiness and proof that Jesus may not be a true prophet. After all and possibly a waste of something very expensive. Second, possibly the same event in Mark 14:3-9 Jesus becomes was rebuked by those present as a waste of a years wages that could have been sold and given to the poor; but to Jesus it was a “beautiful thing she did to prepare for His burial,” as out of worship, their seeming reasonableness in this situation became a distraction. Judas Iscariot was one of the critics who shortly after the betrayal of Jesus (verses 10-11). Third, a similar strong reprisal in Matthew 26:6-13 Jesus' indignant audience spiritually could not see beyond their legalistic no

Mark 14:1–11 recounts the religious leaders' plot to kill Jesus during the Passover, a woman's bold act of anointing Jesus with expensive perfume as a prophetic preparation for His burial, and Judas Iscariot's decision to betray Jesus to the chief priests in exchange for money.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/lets-talk-scripture/donations

“That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! ‘Peace be with you,’ he said. As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord!” (John 20:19–20 NLT) If we were telling the origin story of the Christian church, this would be a compelling first scene. A handful of Jesus’ followers hiding behind closed doors, shell-shocked, confused, and too scared to show their faces in public. Suddenly the risen Jesus miraculously appears in the flesh, victorious over sin and death, confirming the truth of everything He taught and promised them. At some point, either while Jesus was in the room or after He left, the truth must have dawned on them. If the One they served is more powerful than sin and death, then (1) they had nothing to fear, and (2) the world needed to know. We see their newfound boldness and sense of purpose in the passages that follow. That’s the power of the resurrection. Armed with that power, this small group of believers changed the world. And most of them sacrificed their lives to do it. According to church tradition, Peter took the gospel to Pontus, Galatia, Bithynia, Cappadocia, and Asia. He was crucified upside down because he told his executioners that he wasn’t worthy of being crucified in the same manner as Jesus. Andrew spread the gospel through what is now Russia, Turkey, and Greece. He, too, was crucified. Thomas wasn’t present when Jesus first appeared to the disciples in John 20. And he doubted their story. But when Jesus appeared again, and Thomas saw Him, his doubts disappeared. He took the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection all the way to India. He died after being impaled by the spears of four soldiers. Philip spread the gospel in North Africa and Asia Minor. After he converted the wife of a Roman official, the official had him put to death. Matthew, the tax collector, traveled to Persia and Ethiopia to spread Jesus’ message. He was stabbed to death. Bartholomew accompanied Thomas to India and also shared the gospel in Armenia, Ethiopia, and Southern Arabia. He was crucified. James, the son of Alphaeus, shared the Good News of Christ throughout Syria. He was stoned and then clubbed to death. Simon took the gospel to Persia. He was put to death there when he refused to make a sacrifice to the sun god. Matthias was the man chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. He shared the gospel in Syria, where he was burned to death. John is believed to be the only disciple who died a natural death. He was exiled to the penal colony of Patmos. The apostle Paul traveled extensively to share the gospel. He was beheaded in Rome. The apostle John ended his Gospel with these words: “Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written” (John 21:25 NLT). Among the “many other things” was the impact Jesus had on a small group of ordinary people. He changed their lives forever. And, in turn, they changed the world in His name. As Jesus’ followers, we’re still called to change the world—one life at a time. We have Good News to share—the best news, in fact. If we’re faithful to our calling, we can impact lives for eternity. Reflection question: In what ways would you like to be bolder in sharing your faith with others? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus has a massive following, so much so that when he arrived in Jerusalem people shouted his praise as he entered. The chief priests and the scribes have been rebuked by this new teacher time and again, and are actively looking for a way to murder Jesus to put an end to this growing movement. Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 chosen from among the disciples to be an apostle, decides to betray Jesus to these men. While Judas is plotting evil, Christ celebrates the Passover with the twelve. He breaks the unleavened bread and takes the cup, saying that they are his body and his blood. Finally, Christ predicts that Peter will deny him three times. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Send us a textThis week we look at Judas Iscariot. We will see who he was and why he betrayed Christ and how it is a warning to us.Main Scripture:Matthew 26:14-16Additional Scripture:John 6:60-71John 12:4-8Luke 22:3-6Zechariah 11:7-14Matthew 27:6-8Matthew 27:3-5Deuteronomy 21:22-23Luke 14:25-33

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comJohn 13 Jesus gathers with His twelve Apostles for a Passover meal just hours before He is arrested. He begins by washing the feet of each of the men. Peter is reluctant to allow this, but Jesus insists. Jesus teaches them that the service of others is at the center of His kingdom. Jesus then tells them that one of His own will betray Him. No one knows that He is referring to Judas Iscariot. Satan fills Judas' heart, and he flees. Jesus then explains that His time of departure and glorification has come. He tells them the most important thing they can do is to love each other. Peter insists on going with Jesus, but he is told that He is not ready and that he will deny Jesus that very night.  This is the night in which Jesus would be betrayed and arrested, and yet His focus is on teaching His disciples to care for one another. By washing their feet and later teaching them about the crucial need for love, He is demonstrating what makes His kingdom strong in the face of any trial. In our shared walk, there will be betrayers who give in to this world. There will be ignorance, like the Apostles who had no idea who would betray Jesus. There will be disappointment, like Peter's predicted denial of Jesus. God's people can remain united and strong if we sacrificially serve, deeply love, and tirelessly support one another. That is the kingdom of believers Jesus died to establish.   Great Father, we praise Your glorified Son, and we lament that He was subjected to betrayal, suffering, and death on our behalf. We know He now rules in glory because of His incredible sacrifice. It endears us to Him to see Him washing feet and teaching love in the moments before His arrest. Help us to have a spirit like His. Teach us how to serve one another so that the world may know us by our love. Like Peter, we often fall short due to a lack of understanding and pride. Forgive us and help us to grow together.    Thought Questions: -       Jesus said disciples “ought to wash one another's feet.” What should that look like in your life and relationship with Christians?  -       Judas was so crafty that no one, except Jesus, knew of his sins.  If only Jesus knows of your sins, is that enough reason to repent? -       Peter wanted to die with Jesus, but he was not yet ready. How are you developing the kind of faith that would give your life for Jesus?    

This message, focusing on the events leading up to Jesus' betrayal, specifically Judas Iscariot's plan to turn Jesus over and the Last Supper preparations. Jesus' actions demonstrate God's willingness to be "uncomfortably close," even to those who are distant or planning betrayal, emphasizing a "plan of love" that includes everyone. The piece also emphasizes the disciples' reaction to the announcement of betrayal, noting their introspection and the importance of self-examination when facing sin or failure.

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ TELL SOMEONE ABOUT THE MORNING MINDSET - Your personal recommendation can make an eternal difference in the lives of the people you know! STEP ONE: Go to http://YourMorningMindset.com STEP TWO: Share that page with someone you know! ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Mark 3:13–19 - [13] And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him. [14] And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach [15] and have authority to cast out demons. [16] He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); [17] James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); [18] Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Zealot, [19] and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

Scripture: John 12:1-8 Jesus Anointed at Bethany 12 Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 Here a dinner was given in Jesus' honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 3 Then Mary took about a pint[a] of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4 But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 5 “Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages.[b]” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. 7 “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. 8 You will always have the poor among you,[c] but you will not always have me.”

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ Get a copy of the MM Companion Journal: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/journal ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:   ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate. To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ Get a copy of the MM Companion Journal: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/journal ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Mark 3:13–19 - [13] And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him. [14] And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach [15] and have authority to cast out demons. [16] He appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); [17] James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); [18] Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Zealot, [19] and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

Just like all those involved in the Easter story, we've been given the opportunity to participate with Jesus in His Kingdom. In this sermon, Pastor Allen Jackson discusses four characters involved with Jesus' trial and crucifixion who missed the invitation to a better future: the high priest Caiaphas, Pontius Pilate, Judas Iscariot, and the Roman soldiers. They all believed something else, like money, power, or status, was more important than God's invitation. We have the same choice to make. Will we be deceived by the world, or will we have the courage to answer Jesus' call on our lives?   To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world, visit this link: allenjackson.com/podcastdonate

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comJohn 12 Jesus and His disciples come to Bethany to dine with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Mary anoints His feet with costly perfume. Judas Iscariot grumbles about this because he is a thief and hopes to plunder money from the sale of the perfume. A large crowd gathers to see Jesus and the resurrected Lazarus. This infuriates the Jewish leaders, who plan to kill Lazarus. Jesus then enters Jerusalem, and His followers worship Him as King. Many come to Jesus, including Greeks who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover feast. Jesus teaches them that personal sacrifice is needed to be in His kingdom. The people then hear God, from heaven, proclaim Jesus and His glory! Some follow Him, while others who believe are silenced by their fear of the Jews.  The approval of men, and fear of others, are serious tests of faith. To believe in Jesus is to follow His teachings, leaving darkness for light, no matter what anyone thinks. The world, in so many ways, tries to weaken and silence believers. Judas was weakened by greed, and he betrayed the Lord. The Pharisees were blinded by jealousy and selfishness. Though God from heaven pronounced Jesus as worthy, others feared the actions of men and would not confess Jesus as King. In all of this, there are servants like Mary, who poured her expensive oil on Jesus' feet with no concern for what anyone thought about it. Only those who believe like Mary will be saved on the last day.  Holy God, we love You and desire to grow in our service to You and Your Son. Help us to see how that must resemble Mary pouring oil on Jesus' feet. Help us to see ourselves bowed down to worship Jesus as He rides in on a colt. This world and its darkness seek to overwhelm us and make us ashamed of Jesus. Give us the strength to fight against greed and jealousy. Help us develop the courage to live out a sacrificial faith in Christ, regardless of what anyone says or does. We know “that His commandment is eternal life.” Thought Questions: -       We cannot replicate Mary pouring expensive oil on Jesus' feet. But what does it look like for you to be more like her? -       Jewish leaders rejected Jesus, while Greeks sought to speak with Him. What does that say about where faith might be found? -       Jesus had to “be lifted up” in death to save us from our sins. Might you also have to face public ridicule in following Jesus?

12:1 Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead. 12:2 There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him. 12:3 Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment. 12:4 Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him, 12:5 Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? 12:6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein. 12:7 Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this. 12:8 For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always. 12:9 Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.

JUDAS ISCARIOT … FACE OF THE BETRAYERJohn 12:5-6; John 6:66-71; Matthew 10:1-8; Luke 22:1-6; Matthew 26:14-16; John 13:27-30; Matthew 26:47-50 and finally Matthew 27:1-7. It has always amazed me that Judas Iscariot followed when others deserted Christ. And though he heard every message that Jesus preached and saw every miracle —he did not believe in Jesus as the Son of God who could forgive sins. There is much that we can learn from the one who betrayed Christ.

Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”(English Standard Version)

“And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins.” (1 Corinthians 15:17 NLT) The day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday is known as Silent Saturday. Silent because the Bible has little to say about it, aside from a passage in Matthew 27 in which the leading priests and Pharisees ask Pilate to post guards at Jesus’ tomb to keep His disciples from stealing His body and claiming that He rose from the dead. Silent because Jesus’ lifeless corpse had been sealed in a tomb. Silent because it seemed there was nothing left to say. Death, it appeared, had gotten the final word. Think about where Jesus’ disciples were on Silent Saturday—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. Judas Iscariot was dead. After he learned that Jesus was going to be put to death, he tried to return the thirty pieces of silver he’d been paid to betray Him. And then, unable to live with his guilt, he hanged himself. Peter was disgraced and demoralized. After all his bold talk, he had hidden in the shadows while Jesus faced His accusers. Three times people had recognized him as one of Jesus’ disciples. And three times had Peter denied knowing Him. John was taking care of Mary, as per Jesus’ instructions on the cross. The other disciples were scattered, hiding out in their safe houses. They were dumbfounded, terrified, and wondering whether they had wasted the previous three years of their lives. Think about where the rest of the world was on Silent Saturday. The religious leaders and Roman authorities were congratulating themselves for taking care of their Jesus problem once and for all. No doubt they were looking forward to a return to normalcy. The people of Israel were looking for the next would-be messiah they could celebrate and then abandon. The world was a place with no hope. A place where sin and death still reigned supreme. A place where Jesus, His teachings, and His miracles would soon fade from memory and be lost to history. The apostle Paul wrote, “And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world” (1 Corinthians 15:17–19 NLT). If the cross was the end for Jesus, we would have no hope for reconciling with God, no hope for eternal life, and nothing to look forward to beyond our brief time in this world. And the people to be pitied on Silent Saturday are the ones who understood those implications. Silent Saturday was a dark day. And they say it’s always darkest before the dawn. Nowhere was it darker than inside Jesus’ tomb. But as the first lights appeared in the sky on Sunday morning, there was a stirring in that tomb, a rustling of grave clothes, as the promise of eternal life became a glorious reality. Reflection question: In the silence of this Saturday before Easter, what is on your heart?Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good FridayText: John 18:28--19:37Access the Order of Service here

John 13:1–15, 34-35Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet[1] Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. [2] During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him, [3] Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, [4] rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. [5] Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. [6] He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” [7] Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” [8] Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” [9] Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” [10] Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” [11] For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”[12] When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? [13] You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. [14] If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. [15] For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. [34] A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. [35] By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (ESV)

A meditation preached at Kintore College on April 15, 2025, Holy Wednesday. Matt 26, 25: One of the Twelve, the man called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What are you prepared to give me if I hand him over to you?' They paid him thirty silver pieces, and from that moment he looked for an opportunity to betray him. Such painful words, at an agonizing time for our Lord. He was chosen as one of the apostles. One for who he had dreams. The most painful realities are not physical. It is the weight of abandonment, betrayal and rejection.Music: Michael Lee, of TorontoThumbnail: Giotto, Betrayal of Jesus, fresco in Padua, Scrovegni chapel 1304.

Did Jesus really wash his disciples feet?Christian apologists like to make a point of the gospels being written by eye witnesses and that being written close to the original events makes then less likely to be polluted by the passage of time. The issue with this is that we don't know who wrote any of the gospels. That aside, using the logic that earlier is better, we should expect to see progression of the story, we should expect to see addition of details in the later accounts.Mark's account of the last supper is in chapter 14.A couple of things stand out in this passage, firstly, there is mention of the Festival of unleavened bread, it starts on the 15th day of Nissan, the day after Passover. How come they haven't had Passover yet? Why are they only now preparing for it? This seems odd.It has the very familiar account of Jesus predicting his betrayal, and the breaking of bread. Judas is not identified, even though the preceding passage is about judas agreeing the betrayal.Matthews's account of the last supper is in chapter 26.Matthew is almost identical to Mark. The same details, the same phrases and the same order. Some scholars do say that Matthew copied from Mark, and reading this I can see why. Notice too the extra detail. Verse 15 has the extra detail of Judas asking and Jesus responding. Reading this, and knowing that Matthew was written after Mark, and probably copied from Mark, this verse does indeed feel like a later addition, a piece of conversation that never happened but was inserted for the benefit of readers with a short memory.Luke's account of the last supper is in chapter 22.A new fact, but it's wrong. The festival of Unleavened bread is not the same as the Passover. It's almost as if this was written by someone who was not a practising jew, or who didn't pay attention to detail.This time, instead of just instructing his disciples, Jesus now instructs a specific pair. The story is evolving.Notice how this account has the bread and wine being shared out twice, and the part about betrayal isn't there.Even as an English translation, this version is more awkward to read, it doesn't flow and feels like it's had cuts and edits. Weird.The bit about swords, is plain odd. As if the next bit of the chapter requires a sword, and the editor realised that no one had one so they had to explain the presence of a sword so that the incident on the mount of Olives made sense.We also lost the singing of hymns.Then finally we get to John's account of the last supper, which is in chapter 13.This version feels a whole lot darker than the previous three. It's very different. As though it has had a longer period of time to evolve before getting written down.Little details like sending the disciples to find the room are lost, along with bigger details like the breaking of bread and sharing of wine. Instead there is a version of the judas scene, with judas now leaving the meal.What's odd for me is the rest of the chapter is Jesus preaching and interacting with the disciples, this goes on for so long that it extends into the next chapter, don't worry, I won't be reading it all, but there is a bit I want to draw attention to. Chapter 14, verse 22, Judas asks a question. But Judas has already left. Ah, this bit in parenthesis saying not Judas Iscariot. Did a later editor have an oh shit moment and hurriedly cover up the mistake. This is exactly what I'd expect from narratives that evolve over time, been subject to multiple embellishments from multiple contributors. I know that apologists have an explanation for this, and they have to explain it because on face value it is a problem, there is no other disciple called Judas. Invent an explanation they must. Any explanation is better than admitting it is fiction.The four versions evolve, progress, get darker and show clear signs of editing and embellishment. This is why I can't believe the bible is true and why I can't take Christianity seriously.

 1 Before the festival day of the pasch, Jesus knowing that his hour was come, that he should pass out of this world to the Father: having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them unto the end.Ante diem festum Paschae, sciens Jesus quia venit hora ejus ut transeat ex hoc mundo ad Patrem : cum dilexisset suos, qui erant in mundo, in finem dilexit eos. 2 And when supper was done, (the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to betray him,)Et coena facta, cum diabolus jam misisset in cor ut traderet eum Judas Simonis Iscariotae : 3 Knowing that the Father had given him all things into his hands, and that he came from God, and goeth to God;sciens quia omnia dedit ei Pater in manus, et quia a Deo exivit, et ad Deum vadit : 4 He riseth from supper, and layeth aside his garments, and having taken a towel, girded himself.surgit a coena, et ponit vestimenta sua, et cum accepisset linteum, praecinxit se. 5 After that, he putteth water into a basin, and began to wash the feet of the disciples, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.Deinde mittit aquam in pelvim, et coepit lavare pedes discipulorum, et extergere linteo, quo erat praecinctus. 6 He cometh therefore to Simon Peter. And Peter saith to him: Lord, dost thou wash my feet?Venit ergo ad Simonem Petrum. Et dicit ei Petrus : Domine, tu mihi lavas pedes? 7 Jesus answered, and said to him: What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.Respondit Jesus, et dixit ei : Quod ego facio, tu nescis modo : scies autem postea. 8 Peter saith to him: Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him: If I wash thee not, thou shalt have no part with me.Dicit ei Petrus : Non lavabis mihi pedes in aeternum. Respondit ei Jesus : Si non lavero te, non habebis partem mecum. 9 Simon Peter saith to him: Lord, not only my feet, but also my hands and my head.Dicit ei Simon Petrus : Domine, non tantum pedes meos, sed et manus, et caput. 10 Jesus saith to him: He that is washed, needeth not but to wash his feet, but is clean wholly. And you are clean, but not all.Dicit ei Jesus : Qui lotus est, non indiget nisi ut pedes lavet, sed est mundus totus. Et vos mundi estis, sed non omnes. 11 For he knew who he was that would betray him; therefore he said: You are not all clean.Sciebat enim quisnam esset qui traderet eum; propterea dixit : Non estis mundi omnes. 12 Then after he had washed their feet, and taken his garments, being set down again, he said to them: Know you what I have done to you?Postquam ergo lavit pedes eorum, et accepit vestimenta sua : cum recubuisset iterum, dixit eis : Scitis quid fecerim vobis? 13 You call me Master, and Lord; and you say well, for so I am.Vos vocatis me Magister et Domine, et bene dicitis : sum etenim. 14 If then I being your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one another's feet.Si ergo ego lavi pedes vestros, Dominus et Magister, et vos debetis alter alterutrum lavare pedes. 15 For I have given you an example, that as I have done to you, so you do also.Exemplum enim dedi vobis, ut quemadmodum ego feci vobis, ita et vos faciatis.

A Lenten Spiritual Journey with Discerning Hearts: From Ashes to Glory – Discerning Hearts Podcast Day 43: The Price of Betrayal Scripture Reading: (Jerusalem Bible) Matthew 26:14–25  One of the Twelve, the man called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What are you prepared to give me if I hand him over ... Read more The post Day 43: The Price of Betrayal – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Today's Topics: 1) Gospel - Matthew 26:14-25 - One of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, "What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?" They paid him thirty pieces of silver, and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand Him over. On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples approached Jesus and said, "Where do you want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?" He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The Teacher says, "My appointed time draws near; in your house I shall celebrate the Passover with My disciples.""' The disciples then did as Jesus had ordered, and prepared the Passover. When it was evening, He reclined at table with the Twelve. And while they were eating, He said, "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray Me." Deeply distressed at this, they began to say to Him one after another, "Surely it is not I, Lord?" He said in reply, "He who has dipped his hand into the dish with Me is the one who will betray Me. The Son of Man indeed goes, as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed. It would be better for that man if he had never been born." Then Judas, his betrayer, said in reply, "Surely it is not I, Rabbi?" He answered, "You have said so." Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2) There can be no altering of the faith or scripture https://www.knightsrepublic.com/single-post/there-can-be-no-altering-of-the-faith-or-scripture 3) Archbishop Vigano exposes why Pope Francis is pushing back on President Trump's immigration polices: It's all about money https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/02/archbishop-vigano-exposes-why-pope-francis-is-pushing/ 4) The spy mission of Judas Iscariot https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/the-spy-mission-of-judas-iscariot

Thank you for tuning in for another episode of Life's Best Medicine. This is a special Easter episode! Do you know who Judas Iscariot is? He is one of the most tragic characters in all of Scripture and literature generally. How could a person who walked with Jesus and saw his miracles turn against him and betray him in the end for a few silver coins? What can we learn from his story? For more information, please see the links below. Thank you for listening! Links: Dr. Brian Lenzkes:  Arizona Metabolic Health: https://arizonametabolichealth.com/ Low Carb MD Podcast: https://www.lowcarbmd.com/ HLTH Code: HLTH Code Promo Code: METHEALTH • • HLTH Code Website: https://gethlth.com

Welcome to Day 4 of our Passion Week series. Today we reflect on Silent Wednesday, a day where the surface seems calm, but two powerful stories unfold behind the scenes: Judas' betrayal of Jesus and Mary's extravagant act of worship.In this short devotional, we explore Matthew 26 and John 12, where we contrast Judas Iscariot's betrayal for 30 pieces of silver with Mary of Bethany's costly offering. What does it mean to truly worship Jesus—even when it costs us everything? When following Jesus gets difficult, do we lean into surrender, or do we pull away in self-preservation?Join us for this reflection as we prepare our hearts during Holy Week to walk closely with Jesus on the road to the cross.

In this video, we'll delve into the intriguing story of Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' twelve apostles, and explore the circumstances that led him to betray Jesus. What drove Judas to open the door to Satan, and what can we learn from his tragic fall? Join us as we examine the biblical account and uncover the motivations behind Judas' fateful decision.

It was the day before Maundy Thursday that Judas Iscariot went and asked, "What will you give me if I deliver Him over to you?" And for 30 pieces of silver, Jesus was sold to the religious leaders. How about you? How much do you want?

Read OnlineOne of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?” They paid him thirty pieces of silver, and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand him over. Matthew 26:14–16The desire for money can become a powerful incentive to betray our Lord. In this Gospel passage, it seems clear that Judas' betrayal was based on his desire for money. He most likely had some level of faith in our Lord, or he wouldn't have become His disciple. But even if Judas did have some level of faith, his desire for money appeared to overshadow the faith he may have had.One of the central lessons we can learn from Judas is that the desire for money is a powerful incentive for the decisions we make. So many of the great saints have taught us that the path to holiness consists, first, in a purification of all our disordered affections. And since one of the most powerful attachments that many struggle with is an attachment to money, this is an important desire to purify in all of our lives.It's true that material possessions are not evil when they are used for the fulfillment of God's will. But the desire for more, for an excess, will always cloud our ability to see clearly the will of God and live for His glory alone.Once Judas had betrayed our Lord and Jesus was arrested, recall that Judas “deeply regretted what he had done.” And during Jesus' trial, Judas went back to the chief priests and said “I have sinned in betraying innocent blood” in an apparent attempt to stop the trial. But Jesus' death was set in motion and could not be stopped. As a result, Judas returned the money and sadly went off to hang himself (See Matthew 27:3–5).The desire Judas had for money clouded his thinking. And his sin did to him what sin always does. As soon as his sin of betrayal was done, Judas saw the consequences of that choice. And the consequences grieved him deeply. He learned that choosing sin ends with an empty promise. He realized that thirty pieces of silver was not worth the value of his soul. But of course, even then Judas could have repented and received the mercy of God. But he didn't. He simply ended his life in ultimate despair. Reflect, today, upon the witness of Judas. Use him as a source of meditation and self-examination this Holy Week. What is it in your life that you desire more than our Lord? What temptation clouds your thinking and leads you to choices that you know will end in emptiness? Strive to eradicate every disordered desire within you this day and choose wisely the will of God instead. Do not let yourself continue to believe the lies that keep you from making Jesus and His holy will the one and only focus of your life. My divine Lord, You and You alone must become the focus of my life. You and You alone are of the greatest value in life. Help me to shed all earthly desires in life so that I will not fall into the temptations that lead to empty promises and so that I will embrace the true and fulfilling promises that come from You. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Giotto, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Friends of the Rosary,In today's Gospel reading (John 13:21-33, 36-38), we see Christ, the Suffering Servant of the Lord, in the Last Supper with Judas Iscariot present, when Satan entered the betrayer.Jesus, deeply troubled, announces that one of the Twelve will betray Him and that even Peter will repeatedly disown Him. (“I say to you, the cock will not crowbefore you deny me three times.”)When Judas had left, Jesus said,“Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him.If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself,and he will glorify him at once.”This passage shows the striking contrast between Judas' rejection of the light of the world and Peter's repentance, which brings forgiveness.As with the prodigal son, his filial dignity is restored, and the outpouring of the Divine Mercy turns him into the rock on which the Church of the Risen One is built.Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will. Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot | RosaryNetwork.com, New York• ⁠April 15, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

The frozen heart of hell. Today, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Mr. Evan Amato to discuss the frozen wastes of the 9th Circle of Hell - the damned guilty of treachery (or complex fraud).Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for other great books to read!A few questions from our guide to Dante's Inferno:78. What happens in the ninth circle of hell: Treachery (Complex Fraud) (Canto 34)?Pressing onward, Virgil leads the Pilgrim to “Judecca”—named after Judas Iscariot—in which those souls that have betrayed their benefactors or their lords are frozen completely in the ice.[1] The Pilgrim notes the distorted figures, saying: “To me they looked like straws worked into glass.”[2] Finally, the Pilgrim sees the gigantic figure of Satan. The figure of Lucifer, the arch-traitor against his Benefactor and Lord, God, is frozen in the ice to the waist as his six bat-like wings eternally beating—thus, causing the wind that freezes all in the pit of hell.[3] The Pilgrim observes, Satan, who has three faces on his head, “wept from his six eyes, and down three chins were dripping tears mixed with bloody slaver.”[4] Each one of Satan's faces bears a distinct color—red, yellow, and black—and in each mouth Lucifer “crunched a sinner.”[5] In the mouth of the central red face, Judas, who “suffers most of all,” and is inserted headfirst.[6] The other two souls are inserted legs first and they are Brutus in the black face—“see how he squirms in silent desperation”—and Cassius in the yellow face."[7] Bringing their journey to an end, Virgil, with the Pilgrim on his back, first climbs down the hairy shanks of Satan, and second, after passing the center of the earth, climbs up the legs of Satan.[8] Heading out toward the Mount of Purgatory, the Pilgrim and Virgil exit the earth and behold the stars in the sky.[9] 79. Why does Dante the Poet use ice to describe the bottom of hell?In Aristotle's Metaphysics, when he must answer how does the Unmoved Mover move all things if the Unmoved Mover does not move, he answers: love (eros). God is Pure Act, and all things are drawn to him by love—in other words, though unmoved himself, he is the source of all movement in the cosmos. As such, the pit of hell would be the furthest from God; thus, evil, as a type of anti-movement and anti-love finds a poetic home in the imagery of ice. Furthermore, evil is a privation of the good. Evil is not something real but rather something unreal, a lack. Evil is like a hole in the ground or like darkness is to light. Similarly, evil is like cold is the heat. Coldness is not necessarily real per se but is rather the absence of heat. Evil is the absence of good. As such, ice again makes a good image of evil and a fitting pit to a hell structured according to love.80. Why is the...

One of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests. . . . — Matthew 26:14 Sometimes I like watching TV shows about police, lawyers, investigators, and criminals. It can be intriguing to try to figure out a person's motive for committing a crime. Sometimes, even long after you can tell who the villain is, the motive is unclear till the very end of the story. I wonder sometimes what motivated Judas to betray Jesus. Was it greed? Was it power? Had he been hoping for an important place in Jesus' kingdom, then learned that Jesus wasn't about worldly power, and then decided to switch sides and join Jesus' enemies for a chance at power instead? Or was his motive maybe altruistic, as in knowing what Jesus had to do—go to the cross and die—and then trying to help that along? Or did Judas perhaps simply not like Jesus and the other disciples and decide he was done with it all? We don't really know. Sometimes I wonder about my own motivations too. Why do I follow Jesus? Why do I do anything that I do on a daily basis? It's important for all of us to examine our motivations from time to time. We need to look at the things we do and make sure we are doing them for the right reasons. Being motivated by love, care, compassion, or purpose is good. Being motivated by greed, personal ambition, or hate is not. What motivates you? Dear God, help us to identify and understand our motives. Help us to act in line with your love in everything we do. Amen.

Mark 14:1-11Now the Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread were only two days away, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were scheming to arrest Jesus secretly and kill him. 2 “But not during the festival,” they said, “or the people may riot.”3 While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.4 Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, “Why this waste of perfume? 5 It could have been sold for more than a year's wages[a] and the money given to the poor.” And they rebuked her harshly. “Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 The poor you will always have with you,[b] and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. 8 She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. 9 Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”10 Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. 11 They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So he watched for an opportunity to hand him over.

Welcome to The Daily, where we go through the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are taking a short break from Ecclesiastes this week to celebrate Easter with some special devotionals aimed at preparing our hearts for this week in history. Our text today is Matthew 26:14-15 Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. — Matthew 26:14-15 The Price of a Savior Thirty pieces of silver. That was the cost of betraying the Son of God. The price of a slave. The value Judas placed on Jesus. Judas had walked with Jesus for three years. He had seen miracles, heard the teachings, and even broken bread with Him. Yet in the end, he sold the Savior for pocket change. It's easy to condemn Judas. But before we do, we must ask ourselves—have we ever traded Jesus for less? When we compromise faith for comfort, are we not betraying Him? When we choose sin over obedience, do we not exchange Him for temporary gain? When we remain silent when we should stand for truth, do we not sell Him out to avoid rejection? Betrayal isn't just Judas' story—it's ours too. A Heart That Sells Out Judas didn't betray Jesus in a moment. His heart had been drifting long before that night. In John 12:6, we learn that Judas had been stealing from the disciples' money bag. His love for money had been growing in secret, and eventually, it overpowered his love for Christ. Betrayal always begins in the heart. It starts small—unconfessed sin, divided loyalty, a love for the world. Then one day, the moment comes when we must choose between Jesus and something else. Judas chose silver. What about us? What are the “thirty pieces of silver” that tempt you? Success? Approval? Comfort? Hidden sin? If we're not careful, we will trade what is eternal for what is temporary—just like Judas. The Tragic End of Betrayal Judas thought silver would satisfy him. But sin never delivers what it promises. When he realized the weight of his betrayal, he tried to undo it (Matthew 27:3-5). But guilt without repentance leads to despair. Instead of running to Jesus for mercy, Judas ran to the grave. Yet contrast this with Peter, who also betrayed Jesus that same night. Peter denied Jesus three times—but instead of running from Christ, he ran back to Him. And Jesus restored him. The difference? Judas regretted his sin. Peter repented of it. The good news? No betrayal is too great for Jesus to forgive. If we bring our failures to Him, we don't have to end like Judas. Instead, we can be restored like Peter. Where Is My Loyalty? Judas shows us that proximity to Jesus doesn't equal faithfulness. You can be near Christ and still betray Him. Faithfulness isn't about knowing Jesus' words—it's about treasuring Him above all else. So today, ask yourself: What competes for my loyalty to Christ? Where do I need to confess and turn back before small compromises become full betrayals? Am I running from Jesus in guilt or to Jesus in repentance? If you've felt the weight of compromise, the pull of temptation, or the sting of regret—know this: Jesus is still calling you back. Judas walked away. Peter ran back. You have the same choice today. No matter how far you've drifted, His grace is greater. His arms are open. His mercy is new. Will you come back to Him? Take a moment now—confess, surrender, and turn to the One who gave everything for you. #Easter #Forgiven #RunToJesus ASK THIS: What are the “thirty pieces of silver” in my life that tempt me to compromise my faith? Have I ever traded Jesus for comfort, approval, or hidden sin? When I fail, do I run away in guilt or back to Jesus in repentance? What steps can I take today to ensure my heart stays faithful to Christ? DO THIS: Take a moment to reflect on any area where you have compromised your faith, confess it to Jesus, and choose to run back to Him today. PRAY THIS: Lord, reveal any area where my heart has drifted from You, and give me the strength to turn back in repentance. Thank You for Your mercy that never runs out and for calling me back to You. Amen. PLAY THIS: Truth Be Told.

In chapter 14 of his gospel, Mark assembles three stories in a row to show a shocking contrast of the way Jesus was treated. While the religious elites and Judas Iscariot wanted Jesus captured and eliminated, Mary worshipped Jesus with overflowing love and the most expensive perfume. How does this shocking drama unfold, and what relevant applications can you make to your life today? 

Easter falls on 4/20 this year so we've got HIPPY JESUS and SPACE JESUS with JESUS CHRIST SUPER STAR (1973) and THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL (1951). We've got Hippy Jesus screaming in the desert and Space Jesus getting shot at by jittery soldiers in Cold War Washington D.C. All this plus Carl Anderson delivering the performance of a lifetime as Judas Iscariot and GORT, the giant silver robot, melting tanks and cannons. This episode has Philena singing "I Don't Know How to Love Him" and Bob saying "Gort Klaatu Barada Nikto" to make her stop. What's the Buzz? We are buzzed. Before we get into the High Holiday weed pairings, Bob reviews FREAKY TALES, a movie that's hopefully still playing somewhere, because you should get really high and see it. Cory fills us in on his big move to Arkansas where he has found a wonderland of storied fast food chains that we do not have in California, Philena fills us in on the new build your own icecream sandwich joint in the Valley, and Bob recounts playing for a dive bar filled with Nazi skinheads with the Disneyland fireworks going off in the distance. And if that wasn't enough, we are joined by Sage, who has thoughts on JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR. Come back in May for The PhilenApocalypse III in Super 3D with TO WONG FOO, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING! JULIE NEWMAR (1995) and HURRICANE BIANCA (2016). Subscribe on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss it. Hosts: Cory Sklar, Bob Calhoun & Greg Franklin Special appearance by Sage Porter courtesy of Sage Porter Enterprises, LLC Greg Franklin is on assignment Old Movies for Young Stoners Theme by Chaki the Funk Wizard. Used with permission. "Come to My Seminar" by Count Dante and the Black Dragon Fighting Society used with permission. Handel's "Messiah," "It Was a Time" by Track Tribe and "The Quantum Realm" by The Whole Other courtesy of YouTube Audio Library Trailer and archival audio via of Archive.org. Web: www.oldmoviesforyoungstoners.com Bluesky: @oldmoviesystoners.bsky.social Instagram/Facebook (Meta): oldmoviesforyoungstoners TikTok: @oldmoviesforyoungstoners Contact: oldmoviesforyoungstoners AT gmail DOT com

Chaplain Don Moldstad was preacher for this service. John 12:1-8, 12-15: Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead. There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him. Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil. But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, who would betray Him, said, “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. But Jesus said, “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always.” ... The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out: “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' The King of Israel!” Then Jesus, when He had found a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written: “Fear not, daughter of Zion; Behold, your King is coming, Sitting on a donkey's colt.”

1 Jesus therefore, six days before the pasch, came to Bethania, where Lazarus had been dead, whom Jesus raised to life.Jesus ergo ante sex dies Paschae venit Bethaniam, ubi Lazarus fuerat mortuus, quem suscitavit Jesus. 2 And they made him a supper there: and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that were at table with him.Fecerunt autem ei coenam ibi, et Martha ministrabat, Lazarus vero unus erat ex discumbentibus cum eo. 3 Mary therefore took a pound of ointment of right spikenard, of great price, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.Maria ergo accepit libram unguenti nardi pistici pretiosi, et unxit pedes Jesu, et extersit pedes ejus capillis suis : et domus impleta est ex odore unguenti. 4 Then one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, he that was about to betray him, said:Dixit ergo unus ex discipulis ejus, Judas Iscariotes, qui erat eum traditurus : 5 Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?Quare hoc unguentum non veniit trecentis denariis, et datum est egenis? 6 Now he said this, not because he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and having the purse, carried the things that were put therein.Dixit autem hoc, non quia de egenis pertinebat ad eum, sed quia fur erat, et loculos habens, ea quae mittebantur, portabat. 7 Jesus therefore said: Let her alone, that she may keep it against the day of my burial.Dixit ergo Jesus : Sinite illam ut in diem sepulturae meae servet illud. 8 For the poor you have always with you; but me you have not always.Pauperes enim semper habetis vobiscum : me autem non semper habetis. 9 A great multitude therefore of the Jews knew that he was there; and they came, not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.Cognovit ergo turba multa ex Judaeis quia illic est, et venerunt, non propter Jesum tantum, sed ut Lazarum viderent, quem suscitavit a mortuis

Order of Service: - Prelude - Hymn 280 - Ride On, Ride On in Majesty: vv. 1 - 3 - John 12:1-8, 12-15: Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead. There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him. Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil. But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, who would betray Him, said, “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. But Jesus said, “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always.” ... The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out: “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' The King of Israel!” Then Jesus, when He had found a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written: “Fear not, daughter of Zion; Behold, your King is coming, Sitting on a donkey's colt.” - Devotion - Prayer - Hymn 280 - Ride On, Ride On in Majesty: vv. 4, 5 - Blessing - Postlude Service Participants: Chaplain Don Moldstad (Preacher), Peter Estrem (Organist)

Fr. Mike points out the secrecy in Judas' life, and highlights Jesus' words of conviction to the disciples before his death on the cross. He also explains how important it is to bring Jesus into our temptation, and to not hide our hearts from him like Judas did. Today's readings are John 13-15 and Proverbs 6:6-11. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

“Then Jesus spoke to the leading priests, the captains of the Temple guard, and the elders who had come for him. ‘Am I some dangerous revolutionary,’ he asked, ‘that you come with swords and clubs to arrest me?’” (Luke 22:52 NLT) The scene in Gethsemane when Jesus was arrested is chaotic and confusing in the Gospel account. Imagine how much more chaotic and confusing it was in person. Judas Iscariot, who knew Gethsemane well because of the time he’d spent with Jesus, led the arresting party. With him was an odd mix of characters: Roman soldiers, temple guards, Jewish officials, and assorted servants. Strange bedfellows, to say the least. John 18:4 says, “Jesus fully realized all that was going to happen to him, so he stepped forward to meet them” (NLT). It must have been a little unsettling for Judas and his cohorts to plan Jesus’ surprise arrest, only to find that He was expecting them. That may explain why “they all drew back and fell to the ground” when He identified Himself (verse 6 NLT). By taking control of the situation, Jesus aimed to avoid a violent confrontation. But Peter didn’t get the memo. He drew his sword and took a wild swing. He missed the armed soldiers and guards but managed to cut off the ear of Malchus, the high priest’s slave. Jesus healed the injured man and then helped Peter recognize who was really pulling the strings. “Don’t you realize that I could ask my Father for thousands of angels to protect us, and he would send them instantly? But if I did, how would the Scriptures be fulfilled that describe what must happen now?” (Matthew 26:53–54 NLT). There’s our takeaway from this story. Despite the chaotic nature of the scene and despite the unpredictability of human nature, there was never a moment when the Lord wasn’t in control. When did Judas and his cronies show up? After Jesus had finished praying. They didn’t catch Him by surprise. They didn’t interrupt His conversation with His Father. They made their entrance when they were supposed to. They didn’t disrupt the plan that was unfolding; they were part of it. They played the roles God intended them to play. The disciples didn’t see it that way—not in that moment, at least. Matthew wrote, “At that point, all the disciples deserted him and fled” (Matthew 26:56 NLT). He should know; he was one of them. Jesus was abandoned in the garden by all His closest friends—except, of course, for the one who betrayed Him. Yet, despite the optics of the situation, Jesus was still in control. And that’s important for us to remember today. Because if we face a situation that seems to be beyond the Lord’s control, we should look at it from a different perspective. Reflection question: What’s an area of your life that you need to remind yourself is under the Lord’s complete control, even though it may not appear that way? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicodemus was “the teacher in Israel.” What an impact Jesus was now having among the people!  Obviously Nicodemus was so affected that he felt compelled to come to talk with Jesus, but he comes by night!  He declares, “no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him” [John 3 v.3].  A fascinating conversation follows.  John is to mention him twice again, first when he is questioning the Pharisees about Jesus (7 v.50) and then, remarkably, when he associates with Joseph of Arimathea, in binding the body of Jesus and placing it in the tomb. [19 v.39]God's inspired word intrigues us so many times, the more we read the more we want to read and pull together as much as we can the “hidden” stories; there are always fresh insights to be gained.Jesus challenges Nicodemus, “Unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”  “See” can be understood in the present tense – a person's eyes are opened when they are “born again.”    When is this rebirth? “How can a man be born when he is old?” asks Nicodemus.It is a challenge to understand what Jesus means, when he answers, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he (or she) cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.””[3 v.5,6]One is born of water by baptism and both John the Baptist and Jesus' disciples are now baptising many (4 v.1,2)  But baptism is of no value unless there is also a rebirth of the person's spirit, a new way of thinking and outlook on life   “Baptism,” Peter was to later write “is an appeal to God for a good conscience “ (1 Peter 3 v.21)So we understand that baptism in water is of no value on its own.  But, says Jesus, this rebirth of the spirit is like the wind, it is only seen by the affect it has on a person's life.  The wind cannot be seen, only its affects can be seen.  The last verse in John 3 tells us, “whoever believes in the Son has eternal life” – that is – their names are “in the book of life”   Yet those who falter after their spiritual rebirth are in danger of having their names blotted out of the book of life. (Rev. 3 v.5)  Judas Iscariot is the glaring example.Returning to John 3 we note that Jesus says that “being born again” creates for us a relationship with “the light of the world” and “whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his (her) deeds have been carried out in God.”  [v.21] Let us all make sure that is true of us.

“Then Jesus left them a second time and prayed, ‘My Father! If this cup cannot be taken away unless I drink it, your will be done.’” (Matthew 26:42 NLT) Jesus’ last stop before His arrest was the Garden of Gethsemane. The garden was located on a slope of the Mount of Olives, just across the Kidron Valley from Jerusalem. When the events of Jesus’ arrest took place, the garden was likely an olive grove surrounded by walls. Some scholars believe it was owned by a wealthy follower of Jesus who allowed Him and His disciples to use it when they were in Jerusalem. Jesus likely chose this familiar spot because He felt the enormity of what was about to happen. The sins of every person who ever lived—and every person who ever will live—were about to be placed on Him. He was about to face God’s full wrath—alone. He was about to suffer as no one had ever suffered. He needed a place to pray, to spend time with His heavenly Father before He endured His Father’s punishment. All the disciples except Judas Iscariot accompanied Him to Gethsemane (although Judas would show up soon enough). At some point, Jesus asked Peter, James, and John to go with Him to a remote part of the garden. He asked them to keep watch so that He wouldn’t be interrupted while He prayed. But even that simple request proved to be too difficult for them. Three times during His three-hour prayer session, Jesus returned to His trio of “watchers.” Three times He found them all asleep. The Bible’s description of Jesus’ prayer time makes it clear that His suffering started long before He was tortured and crucified. Hebrews 5:7 says, “While Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death” (NLT). Luke 22:44 says, “He was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood” (NLT). Jesus begged His heavenly Father to take the cup of suffering from Him. He wanted to know if there was another way for God’s plan of salvation to be fulfilled. God heard Jesus’ prayers. He sent an angel to comfort and strengthen Him (see Luke 22:43). And then He said no to His Son’s request. There was no other way. Jesus was the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Him (see John 14:6). His Father’s answer was all Jesus needed. “I want your will to be done, not mine,” He said (Luke 22:42 NLT). Submitting to God’s will renewed His strength and sense of purpose. That’s why, in the chaos that followed, Jesus was the calmest person in the garden. He knew He was doing God’s will. Refreshed and ready for what lay ahead, Jesus woke His sleepy friends and went out to meet the men who had come to arrest and kill Him. But in those hours in the garden, He revealed three life-changing truths about prayer. One, talking to God gives us the strength, courage, wisdom, and comfort we need to face any situation. Two, God sometimes says no because He has something else planned for us. Three, “Your will be done” is the perfect way to end every conversation with our heavenly Father. Reflection question: What important truths about prayer do you see in the story of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This sermon explores the life of Judas Iscariot as a warning against apostasy. It emphasizes the importance of persevering in faith and the danger of abandoning Christ. Pastor Joe Fant examines Judas's betrayal, his motivations, and the consequences of his actions, ultimately using his story as a cautionary tale for believers. The sermon underscores that genuine faith perseveres to the end and that physically following Jesus or participating in religious activities does not guarantee salvation.

“When Jesus had finished saying all these things, he said to his disciples, ‘As you know, Passover begins in two days, and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.’” (Matthew 26:1–2 NLT) At the same time Jesus was breaking the news of His imminent death to His disciples, the leading priests and elders plotting His death were trying to work around a snag in their plans. Jesus was still popular with the Jewish people. (Their meeting was taking place only three days after Jesus’ triumphant arrival on Palm Sunday.) Complicating things even further was the fact that Passover was one of the holiest celebrations on the Jewish calendar. Executing someone many people believed to be the Messiah during Passover was a good way to start a riot. And a riot was the last thing the Jewish religious leaders wanted. Their goal was to maintain the status quo. The Romans were extremely tolerant of Jewish worship practices. Roman leaders understood that respecting the religious traditions and customs of conquered territories promoted stability in the empire. As long as things remained peaceful and orderly—and taxes were paid, of course—the Romans were content to let the Jewish priests and elders lead as they saw fit. Jesus threatened not only the status quo with Rome but also the leadership of the priests and elders. Throughout His ministry, He challenged their authority and exposed their hypocrisy. As He neared the end of His earthly ministry, Jesus became bolder in His challenges. He was forcing their hand so that they had no choice but to kill Him. Their task was made easier by the help of someone in Jesus’ inner circle. “Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priests and asked, ‘How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?’ And they gave him thirty pieces of silver. From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus” (Matthew 26:14–16 NLT). The Bible doesn’t say why Judas betrayed Jesus—only that “Satan entered into” him. What we do know is that Judas regretted his decision. When he heard that Jesus had been condemned to death, he hanged himself. The blood money he received was used to buy a potter’s field. Judas’ betrayal may seem like the ultimate surprise plot twist—the blindside that no one saw coming. But there’s one problem with that interpretation: His betrayal was prophesied centuries before it happened. David wrote, “Even my best friend, the one I trusted completely, the one who shared my food, has turned against me” (Psalm 41:9 NLT). The prophet Zechariah wrote, “And I said to them, ‘If you like, give me my wages, whatever I am worth; but only if you want to.’ So they counted out for my wages thirty pieces of silver. And the Lord said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter’—this magnificent sum at which they valued me! So I took the thirty coins and threw them to the potter in the Temple of the Lord” (Zechariah 11:12–13 NLT). Everything that led to Jesus’ death on the cross was carefully orchestrated by God. It was all part of His perfect plan of salvation. And it was driven by His amazing love for us. Reflection question: Why is it sometimes hard to see God’s plan at work? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Passion Sunday, 2025. We rely exclusively on your support: https://mostholytrinityseminary.org/donate/

What's the truth about Judas Iscariot? Has he truly been misunderstood all this time? Pastor Greg Laurie makes a biblical case for just how evil Judas actually was. Notes: Focus verse - Matthew 26 Judas Iscariot was perhaps the most paradoxical and wicked man in the Bible. Was Judas Iscariot misunderstood? Satan put the idea into Judas’s mind to betray Christ.John 13:2 Judas could have resisted that temptation. Judas initiated the betrayal of Christ.Matthew 26:14–16 Judas was a pretender, an actor, a performer. Don’t let someone else’s inconsistency keep you away from following the only one who is consistent, Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ was the perfect example. Read Matthew 26:21–24 Even though Jesus knew what Judas was up to, He demonstrated love to Judas to the very end. Read Matthew 26:39–50 Jesus was considering the load of sin He would bear. Jesus cried out "Abba, Father,"Mark 14:36 When worry causes you to choke, cry out to God. Jesus was a model of what to do in times of uncertainty. Jesus demonstrated His divine power and gave a glimpse of His glory when the Roman soldiers came to arrest Him. Jesus was in complete control of everything.He was going to the cross as a Victor, not as a Victim. Judas ignored all the warnings that Jesus gave. The way Judas betrayed Christ was so abhorrent.Matthew 26:49 Judas was a hypocrite. Jesus reached out to Judas with love.Matthew 26:50 Jesus offered Judas one last chance to repent. Read Matthew 27:2–5 Judas did not have a friend in the world except for Jesus whom he just betrayed. Judas was remorseful.Matthew 27:3 God will not violate the will of man.He will affirm us in the decisions we make. But a true child of God will not continue to live in a pattern of sin.1 John 3:9–10 Two men failed Jesus on one night, Judas and Peter. Judas Iscariot turned away and walked into eternal remorse.Simon Peter walked into the open arms of God. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.