Transition Video: Doubting Thomas skit guys!
Series: Jesus 12 Disciples
Sermon: The final 4 faithful Disciples of Jesus
The final five will take us through the journey of doubt – to less and being less – to a fierce zealot who was use to using the dagger to speak – to the disciple with three names – and finally to the Traitor!
Scriptures:
Matthew 10:2-4:
These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
Mark 3:14–19
13 Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve—designating them apostlesa—that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach 15 and to have authority to drive out demons. 16 These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); 17 James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means Sons of Thunder); 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot 19 and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
Luke 6:12–16
12 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. 13 When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles: 14 Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called the Zealot, 16 Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.
The Holy Bible: New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1984), Lk 6:12–16.
Acts 1:13
When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James.
Thesis: This last group of disciples reveal ordinary men who gave up everything to follow Jesus and each one impacted entire regions for the Kingdom of Heaven– we see the final 4 faithful disciples and the One designated in Scripture as Judas the traitor.
Introduction:
Historical Setting and the Calling of the Twelve
The designation “disciples” refers to a group of followers personally chosen by Jesus. While the Gospels mention numerous “disciples,” the term “the Twelve” specifically denotes those whom Jesus selected to represent Him in a special apostolic ministry. According to archaeological studies of Galilean sites such as Capernaum (notably extensive excavations revealing first-century foundations consistent with the timelines presented in the Gospels), their calling took place early in Christ’s public ministry. The consistent textual witness across ancient Gospel manuscripts (such as Papyrus P64 and Codex Vaticanus) underscores that these accounts of the chosen Twelve have been preserved reliably.
Names of the Twelve in Matthew 10:2-4
Matthew presents his listing immediately after Jesus instructs these closest followers to go out and preach. In the Berean Standard Bible, Matthew 10:2-4 reads:
“These are the names of the twelve apostles:
1. First Simon, who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew;
2. James son of Zebedee, and his brother John;
3. Philip and Bartholomew;
4. Thomas and Matthew the tax collector;
5. James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;
6. Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him.”
Names of the Twelve in Luke 6:13-16
Luke’s account places the formal choice of the Twelve after Jesus spends an entire night in prayer (Luke 6:12). The Berean Standard Bible records the list as follows in Luke 6:13-16:
“When daylight came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also designated as apostles:
1. Simon, whom He named Peter,
2. and his brother Andrew,
3. James and John,
4. Philip and Bartholomew,
5. Matthew and Thomas,
6. James son of Alphaeus,
7. Simon called the Zealot,
8. Judas son of James,
9. and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.”
Comparing Matthew and Luke
In examining both passages, the names appear mostly in the same order, with only slight variances in the middle of the lists. Two terms, “Thaddaeus” (in Matthew) and “Judas son of James” (in Luke), are the most notable difference. In Mark 3:18, the person is listed as “Thaddaeus,” consistent with Matthew’s account, whereas Luke identifies him as “Judas son of James.”
Though at first glance this might appear to be a contradiction, historical and linguistic studies shed light on why the same man might be referred to by different names or nicknames. Ancient Jewish practice often involved alternate names (e.g., Saul also called Paul). Early Church writings (e.g., in some references by Eusebius and surviving fragments of apostolic traditions) also acknowledge that “Thaddaeus” and “Judas son of James” refer to the same individual.
The Full Roster of the Twelve
Drawing these lists together, the twelve disciples/apostles are generally recognized as:
1. Simon Peter - Called “Peter” by Jesus. Former fisherman.
2. Andrew - Brother of Simon Peter, also a fisherman.
3. James son of Zebedee - Often called “James the Greater.” Part of Jesus’ inner circle.
4. John - Brother of James, son of Zebedee, writer of the Gospel of John and Revelation.
5. Philip - Instrumental in introducing others (like Nathanael) to Jesus.
6. Bartholomew - Widely identified with Nathanael of John’s Gospel (John 1:45-49).
7. Thomas - Known for initially doubting the resurrection (John 20:24-29), later a bold witness.
8. Matthew (Levi) - Former tax collector, author of the Gospel of Matthew.
9. James son of Alphaeus - Sometimes called “James the Younger.”
10. Thaddaeus (Judas son of James) - Referred to as “Judas (not Iscariot)” in John 14:22.
11. Simon the Zealot - Called “the Zealot” for his zealous convictions.
12. Judas Iscariot - The disciple who betrayed Jesus; replaced by Matthias after the Resurrection (Acts 1:26).
Explanation of Naming Variations
1. Thaddaeus and Judas Son of James:
• “Thaddaeus” likely derived from a term meaning “heart” or “courageous,” while “Judas” is simply the Greek form of Judah or Jude.
• Luke’s designation “Judas son of James” is further clarified by John 14:22, where the apostle is identified as “Judas (not Iscariot).”
2. Bartholomew and Nathanael:
• Bartholomew derives from “Bar-Tolmai,” meaning “son of Tolmai.”
• The Fourth Gospel only mentions Nathanael, but church tradition and scholarly research generally treat Nathanael and Bartholomew as the same individual (because Nathanael is consistently listed where Bartholomew appears in the Synoptic Gospels).
3. Simon the Zealot:
• Called “the Zealot” (Luke 6:15) or “the Canaanite” (in some translations of Matthew 10:4, referencing the Hebrew/Aramaic term qanai, meaning “zealous”).
• The label underscores an impassioned devotion, whether to a patriotic group or personal fervor for righteousness.
Manuscript Reliability and Textual Consistency
The oldest extant Gospel manuscripts (such as P66, P75, and Codex Sinaiticus) show remarkable consistency in listing these names. Scribal traditions across centuries have preserved the same essential roster, providing internal evidence that the minor naming variations come from legitimate alternate names or descriptors, rather than any error in the text. Scholars who have evaluated these manuscripts (including numerous papyri and early codices) routinely cite the high level of uniformity between them.
Archaeological and Historical Corroboration
• Excavations in areas around Galilee and Judea attest to first-century settings (e.g., fishing trade evidence in Bethsaida and Capernaum) consistent with the backgrounds of some disciples like Peter, Andrew, James, and John.
• Extra-biblical mentions (including Josephus and early non-canonical Christian writings) corroborate the growth and ministry of the post-resurrection Christian community that these apostles led, supporting the historicity of their roles.
Why Two Different Lists for the Same Twelve?
Matthew, Mark, and Luke each detail the same group with only minor variations, largely due to brevity, audience focus, or the use of Aramaic, Hebrew, or Greek second names. Such naming differences were common in a culture where individuals often had multiple designations (personal name, family name, and a descriptor or nickname). This is not only typical for the era but also resonates with other historical sources documenting people of the time.
Significance of the Twelve Disciples
The Twelve played a foundational role in spreading the message of Jesus and establishing the early believing community. Their cultural backgrounds-fishermen, tax collector, zealot, etc.-illustrate the diverse tapestry of first-century society that was united under Jesus’ teaching. Their willingness to follow Jesus unto persecution, and in most cases martyrdom, underscores their conviction that He was indeed risen from the dead.
Summary
Matthew 10:2-4 and Luke 6:13-16 provide two parallel lists of the same core group of twelve disciples. The only major naming divergence-Thaddaeus vs. Judas son of James-reflects different designations for the same individual, something well-documented in first-century contexts. Alongside Mark’s Gospel and corroborative historical writings, these names remain a consistent thread throughout all branches of Gospel tradition. Supported by archaeological evidence, manuscript data, and historical records, the identity of these twelve men stands firmly attested. Their legacy remains central to understanding the formation and spread of early Christian belief.
1. Thomas – the glass is ½ empty guy. The last guy in the 2nd group of 4
a. THOMAS, THE PESSIMIST The final apostle in the second group of four is also a familiar name: Thomas. He is usually nicknamed "Doubting Thomas, " but that may not be the most fitting label for him. He was a better man than the popular lore would indicate. It probably is fair, however, to say that Thomas was a somewhat negative person. He was a worrywart. He was a brooder. He tended to be anxious and angst-ridden. He was like Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh. He anticipated the worst all the time. Pessimism, rather than doubt, seems to have been his besetting sin. Thomas, according to John 11:16 (KJV), was also called "Didymus, " which means "the twin." Apparently he had a twin brother or a twin sister, but his twin is never identified in Scriptures. Like Nathanael, Thomas is mentioned only once each in the three synoptic Gospels.
i. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 157). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
ii. The situation of a then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” they assumption of what would happen o return to their sick friend Lazarus and the danger of going to help him; John 11:16
1. Here is the positive twist on a pessimist – Seeing his pessimistic statement reveals his willingness to die for the cause of Jesus!
a. We usually pair the concept of pessimism with that of optimism in order to compare them, as if they're two opposites.,
b. Rather than seeing them as "opposites," though, it may be helpful to see them simply as two different ways of thinking, just as walking and riding a bike are two different ways of getting to a destination. The major difference is the quality of the journey--the optimist goes through life creating, filled with and surrounded by positive energy, while the pessimist tends to create negative energy that fills his or her life and keeps the person focused on the negative.
The pessimist will argue that he or she isn't a pessimist, but a "realist." After all, many negative things happen in life, and this person thinks that it's justified to focus on the bad as a way of life, as a way to shape and form his or her own perspective on life. Their version of reality, though, includes only a very small portion of what truly goes on in the world and ignores all the positive things done every day. Pessimists view the good in life as exceptions rather than the norm, and by maintaining this perspective, they guarantee that they will continue to be pessimists.,
i. From https://www.livinglifefully.com/pessimism.htm
2. He was not alone in his thoughts: The disciples thought this was crazy. They said, "Rabbi, lately the Jews sought to stone You, and are You going there again?" (v. 8). They frankly did not want to go back to Jerusalem. The ministry in the wilderness was phenomenal. In Jerusalem they all risked being stoned. Now was not a good time for a visit to Bethany, which was virtually within sight of the temple, where Jesus' bitterest enemies had their headquarters.
a. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 159). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
b. Their fears were valid – it was dangerous to go to Lazarus!
c. "However, Jesus' spoke of his death, but they thought that He was speaking about taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus said to them plainly, 'Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless, let us go to him'" (vv. 13—15). Now they understood. Jesus had to go back. He was determined to do so. There would be no talking Him out of it. To them, it must have seemed like the worst possible disaster. They were floundering in fear. They were convinced that if Jesus returned to Bethany, He would be killed. But He had made up His mind. It was at this point that Thomas spoke up. Here is where we meet him for the first time in all the Gospel records. "Then Thomas, who is called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, 'Let us also go, that we may die with Him'" (v. 16). Now that is pessimistic, and that's typical for Thomas. But it is a heroic pessimism.
i. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 160). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
3. Thomas was devoted to Christ. He may have been the equal to John in this regard. When we think about someone who loved Jesus and was intimate with Him, we usually think of John, because he was always near Jesus. But it is clear from this account that Thomas did not want to live without Jesus. If Jesus was going to die, Thomas was prepared to die
a. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 161). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
b. The pessimist – the one who looks at the glass ½ empty – the one who sees the worst-case scenario! Do you know one?
i. The one who has to see it to believe it!
1. Thats Thomas – his most famous name is “Doubting Thomas” which came to him when he missed Jesus first appearance of Jesus to the disciples – he missed it! But refused to believe he appeared to them all!
ii. John 20:24-29
1. "The other disciples therefore said to him, 'We have seen the Lord'" (v. 25).They were exuberant. They were ecstatic. They were eager to share the good news with Thomas. But someone in the kind of mood Thomas was in was not going to be cheered up so easily. He was still being a hopeless pessimist. All he could see was the bad side of things, and this was just too good to be true. "So he said to them, 'Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe'" (v. 25). It is because of that statement that he has been nicknamed "Doubting Thomas." But don't be too hard on Thomas. Remember, the other disciples did not believe in the resurrection until they saw Jesus, either.
2. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 163). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
c. No one needed to tell Jesus what Thomas had said, of course. He looked right at Thomas and said, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing" (v. 27).The Lord was amazingly gentle with him. Thomas had erred because he was more or less wired to be a pessimist. But it was the error of a profound love. It was provoked by grief, broken heartedness, uncertainty, and the pain of loneliness. No one could feel the way Thomas felt unless he loved Jesus the way Thomas loved Him. So Jesus was tender with him. He understands our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15). So He understands our doubt. He sympathizes with our uncertainty. He is patient with our pessimism.
i. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (pp. 163-164). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
d. Where did he go?
i. India to spread the Gospel
ii. Was martyred by having a sword driven through him.
e. Here are some key lessons we can learn from the story of Doubting Thomas:
i. Don't be afraid of your doubts: Instead of hiding or feeling ashamed of doubts, Thomas's story shows that it's okay to have them. The Risen Christ didn't rebuke Thomas; rather, he appeared to him and offered the proof he needed.
ii. Take your doubts to Jesus: Thomas's honest declaration of needing tangible proof is a model for how to bring our own struggles and questions directly to God.
iii. Doubt can lead to a deeper faith: Rather than ending his faith, Thomas's encounter with Jesus transformed his skepticism into a powerful confession: "My Lord and my God!" Doubt, when brought to God, can be a catalyst for stronger, more personal belief.
iv. The importance of faith oversight: Jesus's final words to Thomas, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed," remind us of the blessing of faith for those who trust in Christ even without physical evidence, a lesson that applies to believers today.
v. Jesus's Grace and Compassion: Jesus met Thomas at his point of need, offering understanding and grace rather than condemnation. This shows that God is compassionate and willing to meet us where we are, even in our moments of disbelief.
f. We are not defined by our doubts: While Thomas is known as "Doubting Thomas," his story reveals a much more complex and ultimately faithful individual. His full commitment to Jesus, even in the face of doubt, demonstrates a heart that ultimately sought and found Him.
2. James son of Alphaeus, The less – in size or age?
a. James the Less was one of the Twelve Apostles, distinguished from the more prominent James (James the Greater, son of Zebedee) by the title "Less" or "Younger," referring to his stature, age, or the order of his calling. Identified in the Gospels as James, son of Alphaeus, he is mentioned in listings of the apostles in the Synoptic Gospels and Acts of the Apostles. While the Bible rarely highlights his individual actions, he was present with the other apostles at key events and remained an active member of the early Christian community in Jerusalem.
b. Key Characteristics :
i. Identity: He is identified as James, son of Alphaeus, in the biblical lists of apostles.
ii. Distinction: The title "the Less" or "the Younger" was given to him to distinguish him from James, the brother of John, and son of Zebedee.
iii. Biblical Mentions: He is listed in Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, Luke 6:13-16, and Acts 1:13.
iv. Role in the Early Church: James the Less was an early witness to Jesus' resurrection and a part of the community in Jerusalem, though his direct actions are not detailed.
c. Significance and Legacy
i. Example of Devotion: His presence and role within the early church exemplify devotion and humility for believers today.
ii. Spiritual Impact: Although a less prominent figure in the Gospels, his unwavering faith and commitment to Christ serve as an inspiration to many.
d. Lessons from the life of James the Less, an apostle often overlooked, include the importance of unseen faithfulness and humble service, demonstrating that true greatness in God's kingdom is found in consistent action rather than worldly fame. His life teaches that God sees and values quiet dedication, and that genuine faith motivates action, prayer, and a spirit of selflessness. He serves as an inspiration for those whose service to God and others may go unnoticed by the world.
i. Lessons on Faithfulness and Service
1. Humble Service: James the Less is a model of humble and devout service. He dedicated himself to Christ and his ministry in Jerusalem without seeking attention or glory for himself.
2. Unseen Deeds: Many Christians, like James, will not have their deeds recorded in history. However, faithful, patient, and humble service is not forgotten by God, and He will reward it.
3. Faith in Action: His life embodies the idea that true faith is not just a belief but something that motivates action, affecting how a person lives, talks, and thinks.
ii. Martyrdom (Traditional): Tradition holds that James the Less was martyred. He is sometimes depicted with a club or saw, symbolizing the instruments of his traditional death.
3. Thaddaeus: also known as Judas son of James
a. Thaddeus was one of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus to follow him, and is also known as Judas, son of James. He is often distinguished from the traitorous Judas Iscariot by the name "Thaddeus," a name found in the Gospel accounts of Matthew and Mark. He is recorded asking a question at the Last Supper and is believed to have faithfully spread the Gospel after Jesus' resurrection, though details are scarce in the Bible.
b. Thaddeus was one of Jesus' twelve disciples, who were the closest followers to him. Confusion with Judas Iscariot: He was given the name Thaddeus (or sometimes Lebbaeus) to prevent confusion with Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus.
c. Biblical Mentions
i. Gospel of Matthew: Matthew lists Thaddeus among the twelve apostles (Matthew 10:3).
ii. Gospel of Mark: Mark's Gospel also includes Thaddeus in its list of the twelve (Mark 3:18).
iii. Last Supper: Thaddeus is the disciple who asks Jesus a question about the nature of love and the Father's presence during the Last Supper (John 14:22).
d. Legacy
i. Faithful Service:
ii. Tradition holds that Thaddeus was a devoted follower who served Jesus faithfully.
e. Apostolic Ministry:
i. After Jesus' resurrection, he continued to spread the message of Christ,
ii. Death: Thaddeus (also known as Jude the Apostle) was martyred, likely around 66 AD, by being killed with an axe in Beirut, Lebanon, alongside another apostle, Simon the Zealot. demonstrating courage and steadfast faith.
iii. Lessons from the life of Thaddeus:
1. Include the importance of quiet faithfulness, courage in the face of challenges, humble service, and a compassionate desire to spread the Gospel to the world.
2. Though less documented than other apostles, his life, marked by his earnest questions to Jesus and his devoted missionary work, serves as an example that even seemingly ordinary individuals with steadfast faith can play significant roles in God's plan and inspire others.
iv. Quiet Faith and Courage
1. Steadfast Commitment: Thaddeus, despite not being in Jesus' inner circle, demonstrated unwavering loyalty and commitment to Jesus' mission.
2. Hidden Strength: His life shows that one does not need to be in the spotlight to be a faithful follower, highlighting the value of quiet strength and perseverance in faith, according to Jesus.net.
3. Humble Service and Compassion
a. Desire for Understanding: Thaddeus' question to Jesus about why He would only reveal himself to the disciples and not the world demonstrates his genuine desire to understand Jesus' mission more deeply and his compassion for the world.
4. God Uses the Ordinary: He exemplifies how God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes, showing that even those without titles or great riches can be instruments of His will.
4. Simon the Zealot
a. Simon the Zealot was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus, a passionate follower known for his strong convictions. He is distinguished from Simon Peter by the epithet "Zealot," which suggests he may have belonged to the Zealot political movement, a radical group opposing Roman occupation of the Holy Land. While the New Testament scriptures provide few details about his life, tradition states he was a fervent preacher of the gospel and was martyred for his faith.
b. His Identity and Name
i. One of the Twelve:
1. Simon is listed among Jesus' apostles in the Gospel of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, as well as in the Book of Acts.
ii. Zealot or Canaanite:
1. His epithet appears in the Gospels as "Zealot" (or "Zelotes") or "Canaanite" (or "Kananaios"). Both terms are derived from the Hebrew word qanai, meaning "zealous," indicating his strong dedication, which may have stemmed from a connection to the Zealot political faction.
c. His Background
i. A Radical Patriot: The Zealots were a Jewish resistance movement committed to overthrowing Roman rule and restoring Jewish independence. Simon's background in this group suggests he was passionate about his nationalistic cause.
ii. A Transformation: His journey to becoming a disciple of Jesus involved a transformation of his fervent passion from a nationalistic cause to serving the spiritual kingdom of God.
d. His Ministry and Legacy
i. Few Biblical Details: Aside from being listed among the apostles, very little is written about Simon the Zealot in the New Testament.
e. Traditional Accounts: Christian traditions from early centuries provide more details. These include that he preached the gospel in various locations, including Egypt, Africa, and Persia.
f. Martyrdom: Some traditions suggest he was martyred for his faith, often by crucifixion.
5. Judas Iscariot – The traitor:
a. Then Judas, who was betraying Him, answered and said, "Rabbi, is it I?" —MATTHEW 26:25
b. THE MOST NOTORIOUS AND UNIVERSALLY SCORNED of all the disciples is Judas Iscariot, the betrayer. His name appears last in every biblical list of apostles, except for the list in Acts 1, where it doesn't appear at all. Every time Judas is mentioned in Scripture, we also find a notation about his being a traitor. He is the most colossal failure in all of human history. He committed the most horrible, heinous act of any individual, ever. He betrayed the perfect, sinless, holy Son of God for a handful of money. His dark story is a poignant example of the depths to which the human heart is capable of sinking. He spent three years with Jesus Christ, but for all that time his heart was only growing hard and hateful. The other eleven apostles are all great encouragements to us because they exemplify how common people with typical failings can be used by God in uncommon, remarkable ways. Judas, on the other hand, stands as a warning about the evil potential of spiritual carelessness, squandered opportunity, sinful lusts, and hardness of the heart. Here was a man who drew as close to the Savior as it is humanly possible to be. He enjoyed every privilege Christ affords. He was intimately familiar with everything Jesus taught. Yet he remained in unbelief and went into a hopeless eternity.
i. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (pp. 181-182). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
ii. Judas was ordinary in every way, just like the others. It is significant that when Jesus predicted one of them would betray Him, no one pointed the finger of suspicion at Judas (Matthew 26:22-23). He was so expert in his hypocrisy that no one seemed to distrust him. But Jesus knew his heart from the beginning (John 6:64).
1. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 183). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
c. It is equally obvious, however, that Judas was not attracted to Christ on a spiritual level. He followed Jesus out of a desire for selfish gain, worldly ambition, avarice, and greed. He sensed Jesus' power, and he wanted power like that for himself. He was not interested in the kingdom for salvation's sake or for Christ's sake. He was interested only in what he could get out of it. Wealth, power, and prestige were what fueled his ambitions. It is clear, on the one hand, that he chose to follow. He continued following even when following became difficult. He persisted in following even though it required him to be a more clever hypocrite in order to cover up the reality of what he really was.
i. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 184). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
d. Psalm 41:9, a messianic prophecy, says, "Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." Jesus cited that verse in John 13:18 and said its fulfillment would come in His own betrayal. Psalm 55:12-14 says, "For it is not an enemy who reproaches me; then I could bear it. Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me; then I could hide from him. But it was you, a man my equal, my companion and my acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked to the house of God in the throng." That passage also foretold the treachery of Judas. Zechariah 11:12—13 says, "They weighed out for my wages thirty pieces of silver. And the LORD said to me, 'Throw it to the potter'; that princely price they set on me. So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the LORD for the potter." Matthew 27:9—10 identifies that as another prophecy about Judas. So Judas's role was foreordained. Scripture even says that when Jesus chose Judas, He knew Judas would be the one to fulfill the prophecies of betrayal. He knowingly chose him to fulfill the plan. And yet Judas was in no sense coerced into doing what he did.
i. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (pp. 184-185). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
1. Judas did what he did because his heart was evil. God, who works all things according to the counsel of His own will (Ephesians 1:11), had foreordained that Jesus would be betrayed and that He would die for the sins of the world. Jesus Himself affirmed both truths in Luke 22:22:"Truly the Son of Man goes as it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!"
2. From a human perspective, Judas had the same potential as the others. The difference is that he was never really drawn to the Person of Christ. He saw Him only as a means to an end. Judas's secret goal was personal prosperity—gain for himself. He never embraced Jesus' teaching by faith. He never had an ounce of true love for Christ.
3. Judas had every opportunity to turn from his sin—as much opportunity as was ever afforded anyone. He heard numerous appeals from Christ urging him not to do the deed he was planning to do. He heard every lesson Jesus taught during His ministry. Many of those lessons applied directly to him: the parable of the unjust steward (Luke 16:1-13); the message of the wedding garment (Matthew 22:11-14); and Jesus' preaching against the love of money (Matthew 6:19-34), against greed (Luke 13:13-21), and against pride (Matthew 23:1-12). Jesus had even candidly told the Twelve, "One of you is a devil" (John 6:70). He cautioned them about the woe that would come to the person who betrayed him (Matthew 26:24).Judas listened to all of that unmoved. He never applied the lessons. He just kept up his deceit.
a. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 186). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
e. His irritation with Jesus' anointing for burial:
i. Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil." This act was shocking in its extravagance. Not only was it an overt act of worship, but it also had the appearance of wastefulness. Obviously perfume—especially such an expensive fragrance—is designed to be used in small amounts. Once poured out, it cannot be reused. To pour out a pound of expensive oil and use it to anoint someone's feet gave the appearance of gross excess. "Then one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, who would betray Him, said, 'Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?'" (vv. 4-5).Three hundred denarii was a lot of money for perfume by any measure. Remember, a denarius was basically a working man's daily wage (Matthew 20:2). Three hundred denarii is a full year's wages (allowing for Sabbaths and holidays off).
1. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (pp. 188-189). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
2. The contrast is staggering: Our Lord is anointed with overwhelming love by Mary and betrayed with overwhelming hate by Judas at the same time. Notice that this is the first time Judas had ever exposed himself in any way.
3. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 190). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
f. Last Supper:
i. The day of salvation closed for Judas. Divine mercy gave way to divine judgement. Judas was in essence handed over to Satan. Sin had triumphed in his heart. Satan moved in. Notice, however, that even though Jesus had just spoken of the betrayer and had given Judas the morsel to identify him, it still did not compute in the minds of the apostles. No one seemed to anticipate that Judas would be the traitor. So expert was he in his hypocrisy that he fooled everyone but Jesus, right up to the very end. Jesus sent him away. That is easy to understand. Jesus is pure, sinless, spotless, and holy. Here was this wretched, evil presence into whom Satan had literally entered. Jesus was not about to have the first communion service with the devil and Judas present in the room. Get out.
1. MacArthur, John F.. Twelve Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness, and What He Wants to Do with You (p. 192). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
Conclusion:
What do we need to know from this message:
God uses ordinary men and women to build the kIngdom of Heaven and spread the Gospel!
Why do we need to know this?
God does not look for the most educated, the flashy preacher or pastor – or even for a celebrity pastor he looks for ordinary people who Love him with their whole heart and mind and then he does supernatural things through these ordinary people. Yes, he uses people like you and me!
What do they need to do?
We need to be all in with Jesus – we must follow him even it cost us everything – even our life. Why – Let me quote Romans 123:1 from the Contemporary Version of the Bible “Romans 12:1 Dear friends, God is good. So I beg you to offer your bodies to him as a living sacrifice, pure and pleasing. That's the most sensible way to serve God. “
Why do they need to do it?
I guarantee you the disciples have not regretted their decision to be all in with Jesus and to sacrifice all for the Kingdom.
How can I help them remember?
