Judas had always been a thief (John 12:6). When Jesus first appeared on the scene, Judas must have been very excited. Here was an opportunity beyond his wild imagination. This man was healing the diseased, casting out devils, raising the dead and doing mind boggling miracles. People naturally gave to that kind of ministry. And then there was the possibility that this prophet would actually come to be king. Imagine if he were the treasurer of the entire kingdom (Lk 9:46).
But as the final Passover came near, Jesus began to talk about being crucified. Now Judas must have panicked. It was becoming increasingly obvious that to be associated with this man meant death. Perhaps the rest of the disciples were willing to die, but he certainly was not (John 11:16). Everyone knew he was associated with this rabbi. How was he going to escape with his life?
Then it dawns on him. The Pharisees and chief priests wanted to kill him, didn’t they? Perhaps he could save his own skin and make some money on the side (Mathew 26:14-16). He makes his offer to the rulers and receives 30 pieces of silver in advance. The betrayal is set.
Every heart is eventually exposed.
