MEMORY VERSE: ‘When I was daily with you in the Temple, ye stretched forth no hands against Me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness. Luke 22:53.
LESSON AIM: To show that the betrayal of Jesus by Judas was a doubly decisive point in history, firstly for the rejection of the Messiah by His own people, but also for the revelation of the devil’s open and entire hatred of Jesus Christ.
‘Christ came to this world for a purpose, to perform a divine mission. Every other consideration was subordinated to the fulfilment of this work. “My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me,” He declared, “and to finish His work.” John 4:34. And knowing that the opposition to His labours would wax stronger until finally He must cease, He said, further: “I must work the works of Him that sent Me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” John 9:4. And when the sad hour came that cruel hands were laid on the Son of God, on that same night, when to the emissaries of the great adversary, the words were spoken, “This is your hour, and the power of darkness,” Jesus “lifted up His eyes to heaven,” and could say to His Father, “I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do.”’ Review & Herald, May 4, 1911.
1. When did Judas begin to plot the betrayal of Jesus? Mark 14:1-2; 10-11.
NOTE: ‘The look which Jesus cast upon the selfish Judas convinced him that the Master penetrated his hypocrisy and read his base, contemptible character. He was stirred with resentment. His heart burned with envy that Jesus should be the recipient of an offering suitable to the monarchs of earth. He went directly from that supper [the feast held by Simon in Bethany] to the chief priests, and agreed to betray Him into their hands. The priests were greatly rejoiced at this, and “they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver, and from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him.”’ Spirit of Prophecy, volume 2, page 379.
2. What was the sign agreed between them that this was Jesus, the one they wished to put to death? Mark 14:43-45.
NOTE: ‘Jesus said to him, “Friend, wherefore art thou come?” His voice trembled with sorrow as He added, “Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” This appeal should have aroused the conscience of the betrayer, and touched his stubborn heart; but honour, fidelity, and human tenderness had forsaken him. He stood bold and defiant, showing no disposition to relent. He had given himself up to Satan, and he had no power to resist him. Jesus did not refuse the traitor’s kiss.’ Desire of Ages, page 692.