Betrayal, Denial, Mockery, and Condemnation (Luke 22:47-71)
"Conscience: Judas" by Nikolai Ge In the rest of chapter 22, we see four differing responses to Jesus on the night of His arrest. Those of Judas, Peter, the soldiers, and the religious leaders. Judas's response is the most obvious. He had walked with Jesus for years, heard His teaching, witnessed His miracles, and been entrusted with responsibility among the disciples. Yet he delivers Jesus into the hands of His enemies with a kiss, a sign normally associated with affection and loyalty. Judas demonstrates that proximity to Jesus is not the same as faith in Jesus. His betrayal is especially tragic because it comes from one who knew so much and received so much. Sin often appears most shocking when it comes clothed in the appearance of friendship and devotion. Peter's failure is different. Unlike Judas, Peter genuinely loves Jesus. He draws his sword in the garden and follows after the arrest when the others flee. Yet fear overcomes his courage. Three times he denies...
