June 3, 2010

John 13:21-38
Jesus was completely aware of what Judas was about to do. When asked to reveal who was about to betray Him, He used a method that indicates that He was still offering friendship with Judas. He dips the bread and offers it Judas. It was an act that in their culture was a gesture of friendship. Dr. Alfred Edersheim says of this event:
--He looked down into the abyss which was about to open at His Feet. He saw more than even this. He saw Judas about to take the last fatal step, and his soul yearned in pity over him. The very sop, which He would so soon hand to him, although a sign of recognition to John, was a last appeal to all that was human in Judas. . . . Coming after the terrible warning and woe on the Betrayer, it must be regarded as the final warning and also the final attempt at rescue on the part of the Savior.
What a demonstration of love! Having set the example Jesus then gives His now famous new commandment, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another." He loves even those who betray Him. He loved Judas so much, and still He permitted Judas to choose hell over heaven.
Following this exchange, He addresses Peter's denial. He warns Peter also. And yet, He also loved Peter deeply. In verses 31&32 Jesus had said,
"Now the Son of man is glorified and God is glorified in Him. If God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and glorify Him immediately."
While this refers to what Jesus would accomplish in the totality of His death and resurrection, it also applies to what was happening right then. He was displaying His awesome love for His disciples. Are you aware that He holds the same love for you? What a glorious Lord! The Lord Jesus is indeed glorious. Speak His glory to someone else today!
--Pastor John