Now no one at the table knew why [Jesus] said this to [Judas]. John 13:28
I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 13:21-30, where Jesus shares how Judas will betray Him. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: Jesus loves all of His creation and it troubles Him when someone does not believe, follow Him, and surrender his life to Him be saved. V21 shares (emphasizing His authority via the words "[t]ruly, truly" at the same time) how Jesus was troubled as He prophecies that one of the disciples will betray Him. When asked by one of the disciples who will betray Him, Jesus does not specifically name Judas as His betrayer, but in vv26-27, He gives them an obvious clue tipping off the disciples that His betrayer will be Judas. Then, in v27, the text shares that "Satan entered into [Judas]", and Jesus tells Judas "[w]hat you are going to do, do quickly." Jesus does not stop Judas from what He was going to do and He allows or orchestrates Satan influence and actions.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: The disciples at first do not know who will betray Jesus, but even though Jesus helps them understand that it will be Judas, their understanding of how this betrayal should work is incomplete - see vv28-29. Believers should know that God is in everything, including allowing sin and brokenness' existence. Judas was part of God's plan - but not in a positive way. This is the mystery of God - why some are saved and why some are not - all in control by God (Ephesians 2:8). What is not a mystery is that (1) God uses sinful and broken people as part of His plan, (2) every single one of us, believer or not, are sinful and broken, and (3) God knows all and we can trust that what He says will come to pass - He is faithful and He is Truth. We don't know how God works (Isaiah 55:8) but we do know He is control of all details and nothing can stop His promises or plan.
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid sinful influences (and Satan entering you) in your life by understanding sin (read scripture). Claim the promise that God is in everything, His Word is Truth, He is faithful, and what He says will come to pass. Follow the example of Jesus to save as many as possible (all the disciples except Judas) and use a troubled spirit to urge you into action (Jude 22-23). Know and follow the voice of the Good Shepherd (vs Satan who is real).
My Prayer: Father God You are an awesome God who loves and saves. Thank You for saving me - I know this is not of my own doing. Thank You for also protecting me from sinful influences. I am not deserving of how You save and provide refuge. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
