J.C. Ryle expounds on the solemn moment of Jesus’ betrayal by Judas, highlighting the deep spiritual anguish of Christ and the grave consequences of treachery.
In this expository sermon, J.C. Ryle carefully examines John 13:21-30, focusing on the poignant moment of Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus. Ryle highlights the spiritual anguish of Christ and the grave consequences of Judas’ actions, urging believers to reflect on the seriousness of sin and the reality of judgment. Through detailed exposition, he brings to light the emotional and theological depth of this critical passage.
Text
When he had said these things, Jesus was greatly distressed in spirit, and testified, "I tell you the solemn truth, one of you will betray me." The disciples began to look at one another, worried and perplexed to know which of them he was talking about. One of his disciples, the one Jesus loved, was at the table at Jesus’ right in the place of honor. So Simon Peter gestured to this disciple to ask Jesus who it was he was referring to. Then the disciple whom Jesus loved leaned back against Jesus’ chest and asked him, "Lord, who is it?" Jesus replied, "It is the one to whom I will give this piece of bread after I have dipped it in the dish." Then he dipped the piece of bread in the dish and gave it to Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son. And after Judas took the piece of bread, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, "What you are about to do, do quickly." (Now none of those present at the table understood why Jesus said this to Judas. Some thought that, because Judas had the money box, Jesus was telling him to buy whatever they needed for the feast, or to give something to the poor.) Judas took the piece of bread and went out immediately. Now it was night.
The subject of the verses before us is a very painful one. They describe the last scene between our Lord Jesus Christ and the false Apostle Judas Iscariot. They contain the last words which passed between them before they parted forever in this world. They never seem to have met again on earth, excepting in the garden when our Lord was taken prisoner. Within a short time both the holy Master and the treacherous servant were dead. They will never meet again in the body until the trumpet sounds, and the dead are raised, and the judgment is set, and the books are opened. What an dreadful meeting will that be!
Let us mark, firstly, in this passage, what trouble our Lord Jesus went through for the sake of our souls. We are told that shortly after washing the disciples\
Sermon Outline
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I
- Jesus’ distress and announcement of betrayal
- Disciples’ confusion and concern
- The identification of Judas
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II
- The significance of the bread given to Judas
- Satan’s entrance into Judas
- Jesus’ command to Judas to act quickly
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III
- The misunderstanding of Jesus’ words by the disciples
- Judas’ immediate departure
- The darkness of the moment
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IV
- The final parting of Jesus and Judas in this life
- The impending judgment and resurrection
- The spiritual lessons from this painful scene
Key Quotes
“The subject of the verses before us is a very painful one.” — J.C. Ryle
“They never seem to have met again on earth, excepting in the garden when our Lord was taken prisoner.” — J.C. Ryle
“What an dreadful meeting will that be!” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Recognize the seriousness of sin and its consequences in your own life.
- Reflect on Jesus’ emotional suffering as a motivation for faithfulness.
- Be vigilant against spiritual betrayal and remain steadfast in loyalty to Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Jesus say one of the disciples would betray Him?
Jesus was preparing His disciples for the coming betrayal and the fulfillment of Scripture.
What is the significance of the bread Jesus gave Judas?
The bread symbolized the identification of the betrayer and the moment Satan entered Judas.
Did the other disciples understand Jesus’ words to Judas?
No, they misunderstood, thinking Jesus was instructing Judas about practical matters.
What does this passage teach about Jesus’ emotional state?
It reveals Jesus’ deep distress and sorrow over the betrayal.
What is the ultimate consequence of Judas’ betrayal?
Judas’ betrayal leads to his eternal separation and judgment.
