A Journey to Easter - Day 43
- Debbra Stephens
- Apr 16
- 2 min read
Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, who was named Caiaphas, and they conspired to arrest Jesus in a treacherous way and kill him.
(Matthew 26:3-4 CSB)
There’s an age-old question penned by David, “Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?” (Psalm 2:1). Rulers conspire… and conspire some more—all in vain. Why?! We know why. Power, greed… sin. But why against God? Or His Anointed?
In Psalm 2:4 it says, “He laughs.” It is utter vanity. For God has set His King on high and none shall dethrone Him. The earth is His possession. And He’s been given all power and authority.
Earthly plots may succeed. But those against heaven? I think not! People conspire. And they just might get what they desire. For a time. But they will be called to account.
You would think the last place you’d find plotting against the Son of God would be in the palace of the high priest, another anointed by God. Their plan was to wait until after the festival—because they feared the people. But shouldn’t they have feared God? But they joined the ranks of many who made futile attempts to thwart God’s plans. His timing always prevails.
After the anointing of Jesus in Bethany, Judas joined the plot (Matthew 26:14). Luke tells us that Judas was influenced by the satan (Luke 22:3). Who knows his motive? Or what he was thinking? There are more than a few theories. Regardless, he didn’t resist the temptation to commit evil. And satan was certainly mistaken in thinking the death of Jesus was His defeat. Or that even he could stop God’s plan.
It was the conspirators plan to have Jesus arrested which inaugurated everything else that followed. They may have led the charge, but Jesus didn’t resist. Ultimately, God’s will was being done. And Jesus willingly submitted to it.
The trivial coins Judas took profited him nothing. For mere days later he would be dead. And the money used to buy a grave site for strangers (Matthew 27:7).
What is ever gained by wicked plots? But more wickedness! It multiplies darkness in a world already brimming.
The tragic end of Judas, one who knew Jesus, gives cause to deeply meditate upon the fallen nature of humanity. And the capability within all of us. But we can rest assured, knowing the Holy Spirit is our Seal and Power to overcome such treachery.
Jesus knew the thoughts and intentions of those plotting in the shadows. And He went to the Cross for the redemption and salvation of all plagued by such sin—realizing in great agony just how necessary it really was.
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