Scripture Union Daily Guide 27 March 2021, Saturday Message
Topic: Betrayal by a Friend
Opening Prayer: Lord, let the light of your word shine into my life as I meditate on your word.
Scripture: Matthew 26:47-56
Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow? • Is there any warning for me to heed?
In vs.14-16, Judas Iscariot voluntarily went to the chief priests and offered to betray Jesus to them for money. Other reasons have been given as to why he decided to betray Jesus, but the reality in this passage is that he did it for money.
In John 12:1-5, he expressed his disapproval of Mary’s act of appreciation of Jesus and John in v.6 uncovers the real reason for his opposition. Judas loved money and was willing not only to steal but to betray his Lord and Master with a kiss, a token normally of friendship and love. Notice that Jesus said, “Friend why have you come in v. 50? Did Jesus not know that the kiss was a sign of betrayal? Jesus knew that the kiss was a sign of betrayal and not friendship, hence, His question to Judas in Luke 22: 48 cf. Prov. 27: 6.
In the end Judas threw away the wages of his treachery and went on to commit suicide. The bible warns against the love of money (See 1 Timothy 6:10). We live in an age where the love of money is destroying many lives. In many parts of Africa, people in their desire to get rich engage in kidnapping, money laudary, kill children for rituals, consult witch doctors and engage in all sorts of occult practices. Many are falling away from the faith because of the love of money. Let us beware and take Paul’s admonition to Timothy seriously.
Practice/Word Application
• And so: Warning! The love of money can derail our faith and destroy our soul in eternal hell fire.
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Father, help me to love you above all things. • Thank God for your place of work/business/study.
Prayer for the week
Pray for Christians to render selfless services and true love in our land. Pray that the church will place her priorities right, remain focused and keep appreciating God’s word and His grace. Pray for Presbyterian Church of Nigeria.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with
• Prov. 10-12; Titus 1
Scripture Union Daily Guide 27 March 2021. Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.