The Kiss of Betrayal
by Rev. Kirby Williams
Judas betrays Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane with a kiss.
Text: Mark 14:43-46
Date: 04/06/2012, the Good Friday service.
Series: "Good Friday" Part 3
Occasion: Good Friday
Description:
Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane is one of the most dramatic scenes of Christ's Passion. Through the years, Judas' choice to identify and betray Jesus with a kiss has been the subject of countless questions. Why did he betray Christ? What significance does the kiss have? Was Judas culpable for his actions even though it was part of God's irrevocable plan? Even though this message will touch on some of these questions, they should not be our primary focus. We should rather look closely at our Lord and how He handles one of the most difficult situations any human has faced. Far from reacting negatively-- as most of us would, He became a shining example of His own teaching. The Living and Incarnate Word continued to reveal the glory of God as He radiated His profound love-- even in the face of the kiss of betrayal.
View:
Options:
I. Introduction
II. Exposition of the texts, Matt. 26:47-50, Mark 14:43-45, Luke 22:47-48, John 18:2-3.
A. Context
B. Why did Judas betray Jesus?
1. Considering various theories.
2. Drawing our own conclusion, John 6:70-71, Luke 22:3, John 13:27.
C. Viewing the betrayal from all perspectives.
1. A great crowd approaches.
2. Judas' kiss of betrayal.
3. Christ's response.
a. Luke's version.
b. Matthew's version.
III. Application
A. An awesome act of love.
B. Forgiveness that knows no bounds.
1. Avoiding Judas' silence, 1John 1:9.
2. Marveling at a love so deep.
IV. Conclusion
