1. Why Did Judas Betray Christ?
question of free will and influence

2. Introducing the Question
the betrayal of Judas is well known and tragic
went to the chief priests himself and agreed to the price of thirty pieces of silver (Mt. 26:14-16)
then identified him with a kiss (26:45-50)
but who was responsible?
did Satan possess him in some way? (Lk. 22:1-6)
did God use Judas to fulfill His will? (Jn. 6:66-71)
did Judas act of his own free will?

3. Judas Possessed by Satan?
in what way did Satan enter Judas? (Lk. 22:1-6)
he “put it into his heart” (Jn. 13:1-4)
he went for the motive of greed (Mt. 26:14-16)
Judas was already materialistic and a thief
habitually stole from disciples’ funds (Jn. 12:4-6)
Satan used this weakness as a temptation, the same way he did with Ananias (Acts 5:1-3)
he does the same even today (James 1:13-15) (1 Cor. 7:5) – but we can resist! (1 Cor. 10:13)

4. Judas Used by God? did God predestine his betrayal? (Jn. 6:66-71)
if so, then He forced Judas to sin (James 1:13)
if so, He is a respecter of persons (Acts 10:34-35)
no, but God could know of the betrayal before it ever happened (Jn. 17:12)
God used Pilate, but he had a choice (Jn. 19:10-11)
God used Pharaoh, yet he chose (Rom. 9:17)
same with Nebuchadnezzar (Dan. 5:18-22)

5. Conclusion
God foresaw that Judas would betray Christ, and Satan placed the temptation before him
however, it was still Judas who chose to sin, and he will face the Judgment with no repentance
how do we handle temptation?
do we allow God to use us for righteousness?