Jesus Christ was aware that Judas Iscariot, one of his twelve disciples, would betray him to the Pharisees. So, why did he choose to take no action?
We will explore this question in two parts:
1. Who is Judas Iscariot?
2. Why did Jesus allow him to remain despite knowing him so well?
Who Was Judas Iscariot?
Judas Iscariot was the son of Simon, meaning his father’s name was Simon (John 6:71; John 12:4; John 13:2, 26). His surname may either mean “man of Kerioth” or connect him to the Sicarii, a group of radical Jewish terrorists. Judas was one of the original Twelve Apostles of Jesus. According to the Gospels, he is described as “a devil” (John 6:70–71), “a thief” (John 12:6), a traitor (Luke 6:16), an unbeliever (John 6:64), and spiritually unclean (John 13:10). Despite these negative attributes, he held a respected position within the group (John 13:29).
Judas is infamous for betraying Jesus. He made a deal with the Jewish authorities to hand Jesus over to them in exchange for 30 pieces of silver. He brought an armed guard to the Garden of Gethsemane and identified Jesus with a kiss. Later, Judas regretted his actions and committed suicide. According to Matthew 27, he returned the money to the priests before hanging himself. Judas Iscariot died around 30 CE.
Why did Jesus do nothing about Judas Iscariot when He knew he would betray Him?
It’s fascinating that Jesus “knew what was in each person” (John 2:25), yet He chose Judas as one of His disciples, the very one who would later betray Him. This presents a puzzle worth exploring.
Fulfilling All Righteousness
One reason for this choice may relate to Jesus’ interaction with John the Baptist. When John hesitated to baptize Him, Jesus replied, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:13–15). In this context, Jesus chose Judas Iscariot as a disciple to fulfill all righteousness.
The Sovereign Will and Plan of God
Another significant reason Jesus chose Judas Iscariot involves the sovereign will and plan of God. As stated in Psalms 33:11, “The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations.” Judas Iscariot’s role as a disciple fitted into God’s divine plan. Jesus knew Judas’ intentions but allowed him to be part of His ministry to fulfill this ultimate purpose.
This aspect of God’s sovereign plan is highlighted by the Apostle Peter after Jesus’ resurrection. In his sermon to the people of Jerusalem, Peter stated, “Him (Jesus), being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death” (Acts 2:23). It’s essential to recognize that Judas’ betrayal was not only foreknown by God but was also part of His “determined purpose.” Thus, Jesus included Judas in His inner circle to initiate and fulfill God’s sovereign plan in His life.
The Fulfillment of Prophecy
A third reason for Jesus choosing Judas Iscariot, despite knowing his true nature, is the fulfillment of prophecy. For the prophecies concerning Jesus to be realized, there had to be a figure who would facilitate this, and Judas was deemed a suitable candidate for this role.
Conclusion
In summary, Jesus chose Judas Iscariot as one of His disciples for three primary reasons: to fulfill all righteousness, to align with the sovereign will and plan of God, and to ensure the fulfillment of prophecy. Even though Jesus was fully aware of Judas’ intentions, His mission to redeem mankind required Judas’ involvement. Therefore, Judas Iscariot served as a crucial component in fulfilling God’s plan and Jesus’ purpose on Earth.
By Pastor M.A. Gil
