When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles: Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.
Luke 6:13, 16 NIV
In Luke 6, we read the names of the twelve disciples. The list begins with Simon and ends in verse 16 with two men called Judas—Judas, the son of James, and Judas Iscariot. Scripture concludes with a striking phrase: “who became a traitor.” That single line highlights a profound truth—the power of choice. Judas wasn’t born a traitor; he chose that path. Like the others, Jesus called him with a purpose, yet Judas made a different decision.
Meanwhile, to better understand this, we can see from several Bible translations. The Passion Translation says, “who later betrayed Jesus.” The Amplified Bible states, “who became a traitor,” and the New King James Version says, “who also became a traitor.” All three reveal the same idea: Judas became what he chose to become. No one forced him. The power of choice shaped his outcome.
Jesus selected each of the twelve disciples with the intention of forming something eternal in them. However, He did not strip away their ability to choose. Jesus chose them for a purpose, but their legacy came from their responses. Judas chose betrayal. That act wasn’t inevitable; it was deliberate. Although prophecy had foretold that one disciple would betray Jesus, it did not mention a name. Judas stepped into that role of his own accord.
This realisation stirred something in me. God has a glorious plan for each of us. So, He calls us, equips us, and invites us into a life of purpose. Still, He does not impose His will. He honours our decisions. What we become hinges on how we use the power of choice He has given us.
So many times, we focus on being called—but forget that becoming is a process shaped by daily decisions. Just like the other disciples, Judas was chosen. But what he became was determined by his repeated choices to walk away from truth and embrace self-interest.
In conclusion, this sobering truth reminds us to reflect on our own choices. Are you embracing God’s calling or drifting from it? Do your responses align with His will, or are you resisting His shaping hand? God’s grace is always available, but you must respond to it intentionally.
Living It Out
What will you become with the life God has given you?
Each day presents the opportunity to align with God’s purpose or to drift from it. Reflect on how you’re using the power of choice in your decisions, relationships, and walk with Christ. Will you choose surrender and transformation, or will you resist and go your own way?
You were created for more. Therefore, embrace the path God set before you. Choose obedience and holiness. Choose to become what He has destined you to be.