From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.
Matthew 26:16 NIV
The Bible repeatedly urges us to be alert and cautious. It reminds us that an enemy, the devil, actively seeks to undermine our lives. He works tirelessly to lead us astray. Therefore, staying watchful against spiritual deception is not merely a suggestion but a vital biblical command. Furthermore, Scripture records that when the devil failed to tempt Jesus in the wilderness, he simply left, awaiting an opportune time. This highlights a persistent strategy we must recognise.
The Shadow of Betrayal
We see a similar pattern of treachery in Judas, a follower of the Lord Jesus. Matthew chapter 26 details his actions. Judas had been with Jesus, hearing His teachings. He certainly heard Jesus speak about His impending death. Nevertheless, Judas approached the chief priests, asking, “What will you give me if I deliver Him over to you?” (Matthew 26:14). They agreed on thirty pieces of silver. Thus, Judas began to look for an opportunity to betray Jesus (Matthew 26:16).
To the ordinary people and the other disciples, Judas still appeared as one of them. They saw him as part of their group. They remained unaware of the darkness within him. However, Judas’s true mission had changed. He was no longer serving Christ. Instead, he worked for the enemy. His presence among the disciples became purely strategic. He aimed at finding the right moment to betray Jesus. Ultimately, his actions inadvertently fulfilled God’s predetermined purpose, even with his evil motives.
Discerning Hidden Adversaries
We often encounter similar experiences in our lives with people we consider friends. For example, if God opened our spiritual eyes, we might discern their true intentions. Some may appear friendly but are, in fact, adversaries. They do not share our true purpose. Indeed, they may seek opportunities to betray us or lead us astray. Therefore, the Lord Jesus calls us to constant watchfulness. Such individuals have often acted deceptively. We must remain vigilant, always mindful that enemies may be lurking.
Moreover, the enemy’s sole purpose involves finding an opening in our lives. Just as the devil sought opportunity against Jesus, Judas looked to deliver Him. We often assume those around us share our purpose. However, with God’s insight, we can discern that some are not true friends. Instead, they are adversaries. This calls for sincere and deliberate alertness. Not everyone who celebrates our successes truly wishes us well. Therefore, closeness to God is essential for staying watchful against spiritual deception and discerning true friends from hidden adversaries.
Christ’s Grace Amidst Treachery
It is significant that Jesus knew Judas would betray Him. Yet, He still offered Judas an opportunity for repentance. Rather than casting him out, Jesus included Judas at the Last Supper. He spoke directly to Judas, saying one of them would betray Him. This gave Judas a chance to reconsider his actions. Indeed, it could have been an opportunity for Judas to repent and have a change of heart.
Nevertheless, Judas chose not to repent. Jesus stated that it would have been better for the betrayer not to have been born. This clearly highlighted the gravity of Judas’s actions. Still, Judas persisted in his treacherous path despite Christ’s warnings. Whilst we observe Christ’s immense grace, we must not overlook the constant call for watchfulness in our own lives.
Living It Out
Ultimately, we recognise God’s grace even amidst human failure. However, His Word consistently calls us to staying watchful against spiritual deception. We must actively seek discernment from the Holy Spirit. This enables us to recognise hidden adversaries and remain vigilant in our walk. Let us then draw close to God, trusting Him to reveal truth and guide our paths.