Coin Flip - Jesus Betrayed

“For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.”‭

Author

Josh Hernandez
March 24th, 2025

The hour has now come, where the Son of God of the would be turned over to the chief priests and the elders. Judas, the one who walked beside Him, witnessing His power and holiness for several years, was the one to give Him over for a bribe. His love for the world was far greater than his love for the Lord. Jesus, knowing He must be betrayed for the Scriptures to be fulfilled, submitted, being turned over to the authorities, knowing His death was soon to occur. Simon Peter, in an attempt to prevent Jesus from being turned over, defends the one whom He walked beside, cutting off the ear of the High Priest’s servant.

Matthew 26:48–51

[48] Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man; seize him.” [49] And he came up to Jesus at once and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” And he kissed him. [50] Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you came to do.” Then they came up and laid hands on Jesus and seized him. [51] And behold, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear. (ESV)

Notice the great contrast here. Both Judas and Simon Peter walked alongside Jesus, witnessing and beholding His glory. However, one rejects Him for worldly possession, where the other, counts the cost, risking his life, defending his Savior. Although Jesus stops Peter in his action, the heart posture behind the act demonstrates a heart captivated and a strong relationship with the Savior of the world.

As we look to our own lives, do we see ourselves to be like Peter, or like Judas? Are we willing to fight for our faith? Or, will we turn to the things of this world that fit our temporal desires, but ultimately lead to destruction. My prayer is that we would be like Peter, willing to go to battle for our relationship with the Lord.

Respond with any questions or encouragement

In Christ,

Josh Hernandez