Ordinary Heroes, Part 4: Judas

Brian Behrends, Creative Pastor

Judas means “”

LESSON 1: is not the same as .

Psalm 34:8
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

LESSON 2: Giving is not the same as giving .

John 12:3–5
Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
      But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 

Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

LESSON 3: Following a is not the same as following a .

Matthew 26:25
Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, “Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?”

Small Group Questions

1. Have you ever been physically close to someone but emotionally or spiritually distant? What was that experience like?
2. What do you think kept Judas from fully connecting with Jesus on a heart level?
3. What fears or barriers keep us from giving everything to God?
4. What are some ways we can make sure we’re actually connecting with Jesus—not just showing up to church activities?
5. What is one step we can take this week to give more of ourselves to Jesus?
6. How can we pray for you right now and throughout the week?