With Judas’ betrayal, Jesus was arrested at Gethsemane. All the disciples fled and abandoned Him. They were probably thinking, “It is finished … our hope of the Messianic Kingdom under Jesus is gone.” What they failed to realize was that everything was proceeding according to plan – Jesus’ plan. After Judas’ hypocritical kiss of betrayal, Jesus told him, “Do what you came for”. Jesus knew.

The chief priests and the scribes did not want to arrest Jesus during the feast in full view of the public, lest the multitudes riot. When Judas approached them with his offer of betrayal, they were delighted and probably discussed what would be an opportune time to seize Jesus – out of sight of the multitude and probably at night.

The Passover meal would be a good time when Jesus would be alone with His disciples but Judas did not know the location until the last moment. Only Peter and John knew the location in advance (Luke 22:8-13). In the upper room, Jesus predicted that one of the twelve would betray Him. Peter wanted to know the identity of the betrayal. Evidently seated across the table, Peter gestured to the beloved disciple (seated next to Jesus) to ask. Jesus identified Judas as the betrayer by passing him the bread but none of the disciples understood what was happening (John 13:21-30). He gave Judas an opportunity to leave the room and inform the religious leaders by telling him, "What you are about to do, do quickly." Judas probably panicked that Jesus knew; he went out immediately. And it was night.

Judas probably led the religious leaders and soldiers back to the upper room but Jesus had already left with His disciples but Judas knew where to go next for the garden of Gethsemane was Jesus’ usual meeting place with His disciples (John 18:2). If Jesus were trying to avoid arrest, He would not go to Gethsemane.

All were not lost; Jesus was in complete control … right down to the hour of Judas’ betrayal. Jesus could have prevented His arrest with twelve legions of angels (i.e., 12 x 6,000 angels) at His disposal (Matthew 26:53). But He did not so that the Scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled.

Through Judas’ sin, God’s purposes had been accomplished. God can and does use sin, as well as man’s obedience, to achieve His purposes, yet without forcing men to sin or excusing their sin (James 1:13-15). In Judas’ betrayal of Jesus, both divine sovereignty and human responsibility were at play.

Spiritual Exercise: You may not see how God has used your past failures and hurts to work together for your good but the Bible tells us that He is in control. You must believe this by faith. Will you trust Him?

Prayer: 
Father, I commit my ways to you,
Trusting you to accomplish your purposes in due time;
Help me to be still before you and wait patiently.