Tuesday, March 14th The Judas Plot

… and [Judas] asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver.

Matthew 26:15

Read Luke 22:1-6

It has been said that “everyone has their price.” Money can be a very motivating factor in the behavior of people. For Judas this was especially true. He was the designated treasurer of the small band of disciples who followed Jesus. It was Judas’ responsibility to purchase the needed supplies and pay the temple taxes. The contributions of those who supported Jesus were placed into Judas’ care.

It was known among the disciples that Judas would sometimes pilfer funds from the treasury box, but no one expected his greed to go as far as it did. The years of following Christ did not protect Judas from his own sin.

Away from the rest of the faithful followers and close to the heart of the enemy, Judas struck a deal with the chief priests. For the price of a slave, 30 pieces of silver, Judas would arrange a meeting and identify the One who claimed to be the Messiah. For just a small bag of change, Judas betrayed his Master.

The price to betray the Lamb of God was paid for from the temple money used to purchase sacrificial lambs. Without knowing it, the chief priests were preparing for the greatest sacrifice of all.

For each of us, the tempter is waiting to take advantage of our sinful choices. What would the enemy use to tempt you to betray your Savior?

Something to think about

1. How does money tempt people away from the Lord?

2. How did Judas make himself open to the enemy?

3. What temptation can you confess today?