He Shall Be Called - Day 14

Life and Death Prophecy: The Messiah would be betrayed by a friend
Scripture: Read the prophecy – Psalm 41:9
Read the fulfillment – Matthew 26:47 – 50; Mark 14:43 – 50; Luke 22:47 – 48

Matthew, Mark, and Luke all record the incident where Jesus was betrayed by Judas in the garden of Gethsemane. The betrayal of the Messiah had been prophesied centuries before. It was expected but it was still a surprise. How could someone who you thought was a friend do something so despicable? A death by crucifixion was bad enough. It was made just that much worse when it was initiated by someone who was perceived to be a friend. Jesus had every right to expect more from Judas. He had spent much of the last three years working with Judas. They travelled, fellow- shipped and taught together.

Q1. How could someone live and work so closely with the Messiah and yet betray Him so cruelly? Did none of the Lord’s love and compassion break thru to his evil and cold heart? How did he live so close to the Lord and so completely miss who He was? What evil motivation could prompt someone to betray the Savior of the world?

Q2. Most of us want to be liked and supported by everyone – especially our friends. Why does it hurt so much when a relationship with a close friend is damaged? Have you ever experienced a betrayal by a close friend? How did you handle the betrayal? How did Jesus handle the betrayal?

Q3. Have you ever betrayed or damaged a relationship with a friend? If you are still estranged, how do you think the Lord might want you to handle it? What first step toward reconciliation could you take?

From the squalor of a borrowed stable, by the Spirit and a virgin’s faith;
to the anguish and the shame of scandal, came the Savior of the human race.
Through the kisses of a friend’s betrayal, He was lifted on a cruel cross;
He was punished for a world’s transgressions, He was suffering to save the lost.

PRAYER FOCUS: Lord, I realize that every time I sin, I betray my best friend. Thanks for forgiving me when I fail. Thank You for wiping out my sin and remembering it no more. Help me to forgive others who have hurt and betrayed me. I know that one day I will meet You face to face. Help me to live as if that meeting was today.