He Shall Be Called - Day 16

Life and Death Prophecy: The 30 silver pieces that betrayed the Messiah would be used to buy a potter’s field.

*Scripture: Read the prophecy – Zechariah 11:12 - 13
Read the fulfillment – Matthew 27:1 – 10

Most likely, Judas was initially pleased with his decision to betray Jesus and pick up 30 pieces of silver for his trouble. Perhaps Judas thought the Chief Priest and Pharisees would praise him and consider him a national hero. Judas grew to regret his decision as the guilt and shame of what he had actually done overtook his mind. Judas attempted to distance himself from his terrible act by giving the money back. Even the religious leaders didn’t want to take the money back and in fulfillment of the O.T. prophecy given centuries before, they purchased a potter’s field for the future burial of the indigent and poor.

The world is full of folks living in rebellion from the Lord. They refuse to submit to His plan for their life and betray Him every day they live in sin and fail to repent. Giving the money back was a futile attempt by Judas to relieve the guilt he felt. Perhaps the Chief Priest felt a tinge of guilt also for his part and thought he could make himself feel better by giving the money to charity. Even today, many folks attempt to reduce the rebellion and guilt they feel in their heart by doing good works. God says no amount of charity giving or good works can restore the relationship He wants for us. The only thing God can accept from us is when we acknowledge His son as our savior and accept His sacrifice for us on the cross.

Q1. What do you think changed Judas from a willing betrayer to a remorseful sinner who regretted what he had done to the point of taking his own life?

Q2. Sometimes in the Christian life we allow sin to affect our relationship with the Lord. What should we do to restore the close relationship that God wants to maintain with each of us?

Q3. Describe the attributes of a close, healthy relationship with God. What are the key ingredients that we need to do to stay close to our Lord?

Lord I come to You, let my heart be changed, renewed Flowing from the grace, that I found in You.
And Lord I’ve come to know, the weaknesses I see in me will be stripped away, by the power of Your love.

PRAYER FOCUS: Lord, not by works of righteousness that we have done but according to Your mercy You saved us. Thank You for the mercy You have shown me. Help me show grace and mercy to others and to live a life that convinces others to know more. Help me live the kind of life that draws people to Your Gospel.