Judas: The Epilogue
I don't know anyone by the name, "Judas." It seems that no one wants to be associated in any way with the man who betrayed Jesus. This being the case, I wonder why so many try to save Judas posthumously by excusing his behavior with claims that he was politically confused or emotionally depressed.
In the book of Acts, Luke records several references concerning Judas that put his conduct and judgment beyond doubt.
For he was counted among us and received his share in this ministry.”
- Acts 1:17
Here Peter confirms the fact that Judas was indeed a legitimate and fully equal Apostle who had served in apostolic ministry with the twelve. Judas was given the same opportunities and gifts as the others.
(Now this man acquired a field with the price of his wickedness, and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his intestines gushed out.
- Acts 1:18
Luke settles once and for all the nature of Judas' action in betraying Christ. It wasn't political confusion or great disappointment but his own wickedness that drove him to betray the Son of God.
24And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two You have chosen 25to occupy this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.”
- Acts 1:24-25
In Peter's prayer, we see the evidence of Judas' final condemnation. Judas purposefully chose to deny the Lord and the ministry he was given and the place he went to was damnation.
We do ourselves no favor when we become apologists for people God has already judged. Let us instead be careful that while avoiding his name we don't repeat his sin in being unfaithful and receive the same judgment.