The Lord’s Prediction that He would be Betrayed by One of His Own Disciples
John 13:18-30

LESSON 63

background notes

doctrinal / teaching points
1.  The betrayal by Judas was a fulfillment of Scripture.

2.  There is a difference between satanic possession and satanic influence.

 

practical applications
1.  There is only night if you turn from the light.

2.  Don’t refuse your last chance for salvation.

 

questions
1.  How could John lean on Jesus’ bosom while eating?

2.  If Judas’ betrayal of Jesus was a fulfillment of Scripture, why would Judas be responsible for his actions?

3.  What is the relationship between Ahithophel and Judas?

4.  Is there a difference between satanic possession and satanic influence? Discuss this in terms of Judas.

5.  Is satanic possession the same as demonic possession?

6.  Judas went out into the night. What does this mean?

7.  Was Judas given an opportunity by Jesus to turn around?

answers
1.  In the first century people reclined on sofas while they sat around a low table. In this case, John’s couch would have been arranged so that his head was near the chest area of Jesus’ couch.

2.  Judas deliberately committed his own transgression. He was responsible for his actions.

3.  Ahithophel was a picture of Judas. Read 2 Samuel 16 and 17.

4.  Yes. Satan entered Judas (John 13:27). Up to this point, Judas was influenced by Satan, but not possessed by him.

5.  No. Today there is considerable satanic influence and some demonic possession. Satan is not omnipresent, and therefore cannot possess multiple people at one time.

6.  He not only went out into the night, after sundown, but it was night for the soul of Judas. At this point he was hardened and blinded.

7. Yes. When the Lord gave Judas the morsel of bread, it was a gesture of kindness and honor extended to a friend, whom He loved. He had washed his feet, and now gave him one last chance to reverse his course of action. But the point of no return had been reached.

 

discuss/consider
Recall how the heart of Judas was hardened, and there came a point of no return. Do you know someone who is turning away from the light? What are the signs?  Pray, then work with this person, that he/she might turn to the light before it is too late. God is not willing that any should perish.

 

challenge
Remind yourself continually that there is only night when you turn from the light. Are there times when you feel that your own heart seems to harden to the teachings of the Bible? Seek out the source for this hardening, and turn from the night to the light.

memorize

“That Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘He who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me.’” John 13:18; Psalm 41:9

“Most assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.” John 13:21

“It is he, to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it.” John 13:26