Judas
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He eagerly grasped the robe of Caiaphas, and begged him to release
Jesus, declaring that He had done no wrong. Caiaphas angrily shook
him off, and said with scorn:
“What is that to us? See thou to that.”
Matthew 27:4
.
Judas then threw himself at the Saviour’s feet. He confessed that
Jesus was the Son of God, and begged Him to deliver Himself from
His enemies.
The Saviour knew that Judas did not really repent for what he had
done. The false disciple feared that punishment would come upon him
for his terrible deed; but he felt no real sorrow because he had betrayed
the spotless Son of God.
Yet Christ spoke to him no word of condemnation. He looked with
pity upon Judas, and said:
“For this hour came I into the world.”
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A murmur of surprise ran through the assembly. With amazement
they beheld the forbearance of Christ toward His betrayer.
Judas saw that his entreaties were in vain, and he rushed from the
hall, crying:
“It is too late! It is too late!”
He felt that He could not live to see Jesus crucified, and in despair
went out and hanged himself.
Later that same day, on the road from Pilate’s judgment hall to
Calvary, the wicked throng were leading the Saviour to the place of
crucifixion. Suddenly there came an interruption to their shouts and
jeers. As they passed a retired spot, they saw at the foot of a lifeless
tree the dead body of Judas.
It was a revolting sight. His weight had broken the cord by which
he had hanged himself to the tree. In falling, his body had been horribly
mangled, and the dogs were now devouring it.
His remains were immediately buried out of sight; but there was
less mockery, and many a pale face revealed the fearful thoughts within.
Retribution seemed already to be visiting those who were guilty of the
blood of Jesus.
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