iWitness: Judas
Lent has begun, the 40 days (excluding Sundays) of preparation before Easter. During this season, we will explore some of the eyewitnesses to the cross, including some of the very first evangelists. Through their examples, we’ll learn more about what it means to be a witness for Christ and his Good News.
This week, we explore Judas. As one of Christ’s 12 disciples, his infamous betrayal of Jesus arguably made him one of the best-known Bible characters of all time. Even people not familiar with the Bible reference him as an example of treacherous behavior. In examining Judas, we will examine ourselves — we might not have decided to betray Jesus the way Judas did, but all of us are betrayers of Jesus, in thought, word, and deed, by what we’ve done and left undone at some point in our lives.
Sermon Reflections:
- Do you see any part of yourself in Judas? If so, in what ways? The sermon explores the idea that we all have a little bit of Judas in us, where our values and desires sometimes conflict with Jesus’ teachings. Reflect on your own life and identify areas where you struggle with temptation or putting Jesus in a box.
- How do you deal with conflict between your values and Jesus’ teachings? We all face moments where our personal views clash with Jesus’ message. Consider how you typically handle these situations. Do you compromise, dismiss your own desires, or seek a deeper understanding of the teachings?
- What does Judas’ story teach us about forgiveness and redemption? While Judas ultimately took his own life, what might have happened if he had waited and experienced Jesus’ forgiveness? This raises questions about God’s grace and the potential for redemption even after mistakes.
- Do you believe Judas went to heaven? Why or why not? There is no way for us to know of Judas’ ultimate fate. This question, left unanswered in Scripture, allows us to reflect on God’s ultimate love and forgiveness. Consider your own beliefs about judgement and the possibility of redemption after significant wrongdoing.
- How can we apply the lessons from Judas’ story to our own lives? How can you learn from Judas’ mistakes and choices? Think about how understanding his struggles can help you cultivate stronger faith, avoid personal betrayal, and embrace forgiveness in your own life.
- What does the story of Judas tell us about the complexities of human nature and faith? Judas’ character is multifaceted, with elements of ambition, disillusionment, and ultimately, despair. Reflect on the complexities of human motivations and how faith can navigate the challenges we face.