New Church Life March/April 2017 | Page 43

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of the realities of politics and governance .
While there are some differences between the historical record of Pontius Pilate and the Gospel record , what we do have from the Gospels paints a very vivid picture of someone who is a villain . His humanity is preserved by the evangelists despite the shameful role he played in the death of Jesus of Nazareth .
Pilate is not the only villain to be presented with such humanity . ( In Luke 23:8 Herod is actually reported as being extremely excited to meet Jesus “ because he had heard many things about Him , and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him .”) It is clear that it was possible for the Gospel writers to present a character in such a dynamic way , but Judas Iscariot was denied this same kind of treatment , and as a result , his humanity has faded away . How can Judas reclaim his humanity so that he can speak to us today ?
Echoes and shadows of Judas ’ humanity remain preserved between the lines and verses of the Gospels . By taking a close look at his own words as recorded by the Evangelists , we can hear him calling to us , begging us to understand his life and struggles . These words , along with a critical analysis of his recorded deeds , will leave us with a fuller picture of a disciple in conflict with himself , and one who felt hopeless , helpless and forever condemned .
Judas Speaks When it comes down to it , even though we have access to quotes that are attributed to Judas biblically , it is very possible that all we have to go by when it comes to the historical Judas is a name and a legacy .
Below are the collected direct quotations from the four Gospels attributed to Judas . These words may or may not have been uttered by Judas . They could well have been written by an evangelist who hated Judas on account of what he did to Jesus . This might seem farfetched , but it is odd that in each of the Gospels Judas is introduced as the betrayer well before any subversive or traitorous deeds take place . ( Spoiler alert !)
And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him , He gave them power over unclean spirits , to cast them out , and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease . Now the names of the twelve apostles are these : . . . and Judas Iscariot , who also betrayed Him . ( Matthew 10:1-4 ; cf . Mark 3:14-19 , Luke 6:12-16 ; also John 6:70- 71 )
Despite these disclaimers and concerns , Judas ’ quotes throughout the Gospels are our best chance for hearing the voice of Judas . ( The quotations below are organized in the chronological order of the story of Jesus .)
Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor ? ( John 12:5 )
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