Betrayal and Denial

 

 

(44) Betrayal and Denial

(John 13:18-38)

Rev. Neil Kim

I. Accept what God gives you (vv.18-20)

Jesus knew what was right and wrong because he allowed it.

For what purposes did Jesus allow it?

God planned it.  It was God’s will, and His will must be fulfilled (v.18)

So that people would believe who Jesus was (v.19)

II. Betrayal (vv.21-30):

Betrayal comes at the hands of those who are the closest to him (v. 18)

Jesus knew who was going to betray him (v. 21)

Peter tried to find out who that might be  (vv. 22-25)

Jesus gave no specific information (v. 26)

This was Judas’ last opportunity to renounce his betrayal (vv. 27-30)

III. Denial (vv. 36-38)

Jesus not only foresaw that Judas would betray Him, but He foresaw that Peter would deny Him.

So why did Peter fail?

Overconfidence

Lack of prayer

Haste and impatience

IV. Lessons we can learn from the way Jesus handled the situations

Dealing with Judas’ betrayal:

Circumstances didn’t hinder him from doing God’s work

Jesus was angry but he didn’t let it consume him by staying angry

Dealing with Peter’s denial:

Jesus was clear and honest about what Peter would do

But Jesus didn’t leave him hanging out there all by himself

New command (vv. 33-35):

This is the only way to overcome betrayal and denial.

People will know we belong to God, and the Gospel will continue to advance.

V. Application

Have you ever been betrayed by someone close to you?  How did you handle it?

How do you manage your anger?  Share with others.