Judas' Deceitful Greeting
Greetings. For our study today, read Mt. 26:14-16,
46-50 and the other accounts in Mk. 14 and Lk. 22. I would like for
us to consider the ways in which Judas was dishonest and do some
self examination to be sure we do not fall into this same character.
Judas was dishonest, not just in the words he may have said, but his
entire life was a lie. He pretended to be a disciple when he was
really a thief.
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Judas was a thief (Jn 12:6). Without saying a
word, a person’s actions can be a lie.
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Judas was secretive in his actions. He met with
the Jewish leaders privately, he betrayed Christ with a kiss. He
would not even make a direct accusation. When he wanted to steal
money, he implied that Mary misused precious ointment (Jn. 12:4-6).
Have you ever noticed that when you and I are being secretive, we
are often saying or doing something that belies our profession of
Christianity.
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We can use the appearance of good to accomplish
devious ends. Judas betrayed Christ with a kiss. We can dig at
people through a joke. Paul was encouraging honesty when he said,
"Greet one another with a holy kiss" (Rom. 16:16).
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Judas went through life as a disciple, but he was
living a lie. We should examine ourselves.