4/6/11 John 13:27-30 Judas Left

 So Jesus told him, “What you are about to do, do quickly.” ²⁸ But no one at the meal understood why Jesus said this to him. ²⁹ Since Judas had charge of the money, some thought Jesus was telling him to buy what was needed for the festival, or to give something to the poor. ³⁰ As soon as Judas had taken the bread, he went out. And it was night

(Judas Leaving)

Thoughts: John was reflecting back over the worst tragedy of history.  He recognized that things were said that just didn't register at the time.  God speaks to us through the events in our lives.  It is good to reflect back on the good that happens in our lives but also the bad.  John realized Jesus was again prophesying that Judas would betray Him (showing his divinity), but the Apostles did not get it at the time.  Sometimes reflection back on events give us a new appreciation of God. 

Prayer: As I look back on my life, Lord, help me to see your hand, and to hear your Spirit.

John Calvin Abridged: If it was Satan's design all along to use Judas why does it only now say that "Satan entered him?"  Just as Christians grow in their faith all along, but only on occassion are said to be "filled with the Spirit" so Satan filled Judas here.  It was an utter act of kindness that Jesus offered Judas the sop.  But this only hardened his heart more.  We are told to love our enemies (Rom. 12:20) but this is like heaping burning coals on their heads.  If they are incurable, kindness only hardens their hearts.