Devils in the Camp of Christ

Rev. Enoch Thompson | April 16, 2024 | John 6:66-70

KEY VERSE:

Then Jesus replied, "Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!"  John 6:70 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

During His earthly ministry the Lord Jesus Christ prayerfully, intentionally and carefully chose the Twelve Apostles who assisted Him in His outreach to Israel, and by whom He intended to assign the preaching of His Kingdom after His death and Resurrection. The Jesus strategy was an effective one and has succeeded to this day. However, one of the most fascinating things about His choices was that He included Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who would later betray Him. 

Sometimes we tend to think that the Lord was taken unawares by the developments in the person and character of Judas Iscariot. However, the Bible makes it clear that the Lord was very much aware of the outcomes of the journey of Judas. The Lord knew that Judas was stealing from the group accounts, that Judas had an ear to the devil and was becoming devilish by the day. The Lord knew that Judas would betray Him and offered him the opportunity to repent. 

When we see evil people making their way up the ladder in the Church of God, may we never think that God is unaware of their presence and their schemes. God allows devils to play in the parlour of His temple in order that His perfect plan will be achieved without violating His justice and the freewill of humans.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

When the devil whispers his lies to you to undermine the work of God, tell him to go to Hell and leave you alone. Don’t become a devil in the camp of the Lord.

PRAYER:

Lord Jesus Christ, please give me the power you had when you were confronted by the devil in the desert. May I never give attention to his lies, may I never yield to his ways. Lord, reveal myself to me that I might see what is in me, and not give the devil a foothold. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

---

DAILY word study: DEVIL In John 6:70, Jesus responds to the disciples' confession of faith by acknowledging their loyalty and commitment. He says, "Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!"

The word "devil" in Greek is translated as "διάβολος" (diabolos), which refers to a slanderer, false accuser, or adversary. Jesus uses this term to describe Judas Iscariot, who would later betray Him. This designation highlights Judas' role as an adversary or opponent of Jesus, despite being one of His chosen disciples.

Jesus' statement serves as a sobering reminder of the presence of evil and betrayal even among those who profess faith in Him. It emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare and the ongoing struggle between good and evil in the world.

Reflections: Are there areas of our lives where we may be harbouring attitudes or behaviours that are contrary to God's will? How can we guard against the influence of evil and remain faithful to Jesus, even in the face of temptation and opposition?