Don't Compare Me to Judas

As Christians, those who have received the indwelling Holy Spirit are fundamentally different from Judas Iscariot, and comparing them to Judas is not biblically accurate or justifiable. Here are several biblical reasons supporting this perspective:

1. Redemption and Forgiveness: Unlike Judas, who betrayed Jesus and later despaired to the point of taking his own life (Matthew 27:3-5), Christians have experienced redemption and forgiveness through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches that through faith in Jesus, believers are justified and reconciled to God, receiving the assurance of eternal life (Romans 5:1-2; Ephesians 1:7; 1 John 1:9).

2. New Creation: When individuals become Christians, they are spiritually reborn and transformed by the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul emphasizes this transformation, stating that believers are new creations in Christ, with old things passed away and all things made new (2 Corinthians 5:17). This spiritual renewal marks a radical departure from the sinful nature and patterns of behavior characteristic of unbelief.

3. Sealed by the Holy Spirit: Christians are sealed with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of their inheritance and redemption (Ephesians 1:13-14). This sealing signifies God's ownership and protection over believers, ensuring their security and perseverance in faith. Unlike Judas, who lacked the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, Christians are empowered by the Spirit to live holy and godly lives (Romans 8:9; Galatians 5:16).

4. Adoption as Children of God: Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are adopted into God's family and become His children (Romans 8:15-17). This intimate relationship with God as Father contrasts sharply with the betrayer's rebellion and estrangement from Jesus. Christians are heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, destined to share in His glory and eternal inheritance.

5. Fruit of the Spirit: The indwelling Holy Spirit produces fruit in the lives of believers, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These qualities reflect the character of Christ and distinguish Christians from those who act in opposition to His teachings, like Judas.

6. He Chose Us in Him: Ephesians 1:4-5 (NIV): "For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will." In these verses, the apostle Paul affirms that believers are chosen by God before the foundation of the world to belong to Him. This election is an expression of God's love and grace, as He predestines believers for adoption as His children through Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the sovereign will of God in choosing and calling individuals to salvation, highlighting the eternal plan and purpose of God's redemption for those who belong to Him.

Contrast that to what Jesus says about Judas. Matthew 26:24 (NIV): "The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born."In this verse, Jesus foretells His betrayal by Judas Iscariot and pronounces a severe judgment upon the one who would betray Him. He expresses the gravity of Judas' actions and the tragic consequences of his betrayal, suggesting that it would have been better for Judas if he had never been born rather than face the consequences of his betrayal of the Son of Man.

In summary, Christians with the indwelling Holy Spirit are fundamentally different from Judas Iscariot in their identity, status, and relationship with God. Rather than comparing believers to Judas, the focus should be on the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in shaping and conforming Christians to the likeness of Christ.