BEWARE THE BETRAYER – NEVER TOO FAR AWAY

The Bible is a true and accurate record of events. Some of the instances recorded in it, for us, are revealing and unmasking the heart of man, and the evil that resides in our hearts. One such incident is the betrayal of the LORD Jesus, by Judas. The arrest of Jesus, in the Garden of Gethsemane, is dramatic, to say the least. 
– “47 And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. 48 But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” – Luke 22:47
– “47 And while He was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and elders of the people. 48 Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him.” 49 Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him. 50 But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him.” – Matthew 26:47-50

Judas, the “disciple” decides to betray His Rabbi – Teacher and Master. It is not a surprise, for he was never a disciple of the LORD Jesus, but merely a pretender. When the time had come, he simply revealed his true character. 
– “14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, 15 And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. 16 And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.” – Matthew 26:14-16

Judas the betrayer had displayed clearly, his traits, and his character, all along. Those who had eyes to see, they saw it, the rest were blind, ignorant and naive in believing in the “goodness” of Judas.
– “4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, 5 “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.” – John 12:4-6

In the “last days” people’s hearts will display more brazenly, the true colours, and its true nature. Every human relationship is affected by such behaviour. People’s hearts are cold, calculative and commercial in all its thoughts, intents and purposes.
– “5 And Jesus, answering them, began to say: “Take heed that no one deceives you…12 Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. 13 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end shall be saved.” – Mark 13:5,12-13

Prophet Micah describes it very well, the heart of man. It is revealing to see what a human heart is capable of.
– “1 Woe is me! For I am like those who gather summer fruits, Like those who glean vintage grapes; There is no cluster to eat Of the first-ripe fruit which my soul desires. 2 The faithful man has perished from the earth, And there is no one upright among men. They all lie in wait for blood; Every man hunts his brother with a net. 3 That they may successfully do evil with both hands – The prince asks for gifts, The judge seeks a bribe, And the great man utters his evil desire; So they scheme together. 4 The best of them is like a brier; The most upright is sharper than a thorn hedge; The day of your watchman and your punishment comes; Now shall be their perplexity. 5 Do not trust in a friend; Do not put your confidence in a companion; Guard the doors of your mouth From her who lies in your bosom. 6 For son dishonors father, Daughter rises against her mother, Daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; A man’s enemies are the men of his own household.” – Micah 7:1-6

Let us be aware of the world we live in. Let us be alert and awake to the fact that people in the last days would not hesitate to “sell” anyone if the “price” is right. The one who betrays us, is not someone who comes out of nowhere, and deceives us, and then betrays us. Nay, the one who betrays us is right beside us, and pretending to be our friend, who has only our best interest in his heart. Beware such people, they are the ones who will sell us for a mere thirty pieces of silver. Even as we encounter such people, and their betrayals, let us learn to lean on the LORD, the only One who is utterly trustworthy, and totally dependable, and seek for friends who stick closer than a brother.
– “7 Therefore I will look to the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation; My God will hear me.” – Micah 7:7
– “17 A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.” “24…there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” – Proverbs 17:17; 18:24b