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Study Notes: Betrayal and Denial - A Contrast of Extremes (John 13:21-30)

Introduction:

• Importance of teaching the Bible over political issues.

Scripture Reading: John 13:21-30

• Jesus predicts His betrayal by one of the disciples.
• The scene in the upper room before Jesus' crucifixion.
• The importance of understanding Jesus’ humanity and His foreknowledge.

Verse Analysis:

John 13:21-22:

• Jesus is troubled in spirit, announcing a betrayal among the disciples.
• The disciples are perplexed and unsure who the betrayer is.

John 13:23-25:

• The disciple whom Jesus loved (traditionally John) reclines next to Jesus.
• Simon Peter signals John to ask Jesus who the betrayer is.
• John asks Jesus directly.

John 13:26-27:

• Jesus identifies Judas as the betrayer by giving him a piece of dipped bread.
• Satan enters Judas after he takes the bread.
• Jesus tells Judas to act quickly.

John 13:28-30:

• The disciples misunderstand Jesus’ words to Judas.
• Judas leaves immediately, and it is night, symbolizing spiritual darkness.

Contrasting Extremes:

1. John – The Beloved Disciple:

• Physical and Spiritual Proximity: John's physical closeness to Jesus signifies his spiritual intimacy with Him. John’s relationship with Jesus exemplifies a deep, reciprocal love and understanding. John also represents those who seek intimate knowledge and closeness with Jesus, striving to understand His ways deeply.

2. Judas – The Betrayer:

• Betrayal Act: Judas’s betrayal despite his closeness to Jesus highlights a stark contrast.
• Satan’s Influence: The progression of sin in Judas’s life—from a planted idea to the act of betrayal.
• Symbolic Darkness: John’s note that “it was night” signifies Judas’s spiritual darkness and separation from Jesus.

Application to Our Lives:

• Spiritual Extremes: Encourages reflection on whether we are closer to the example of John or Judas in our spiritual lives.
• Lukewarm Faith: Warns against being lukewarm in our faith, urging a fervent, passionate relationship with Jesus.
• Call to Repentance: Revelation 3:15-20 emphasizes the need for zeal and repentance from lukewarmness.

Conclusion:

• Challenge: To avoid lukewarmness and seek a radical, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.

Key Takeaways:

• Jesus’ Humanity: His troubled spirit shows His shared human experiences.
• Betrayal Foretold: Foreknowledge of betrayal strengthens the disciples’ faith post-event. Striving for closeness with Jesus leads to deeper understanding and wisdom.
• Progression of Sin: Sin often starts as a thought and progresses to action, as seen in Judas's betrayal. Closeness to Jesus brings spiritual light; separation brings darkness.

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