Jesus Christ had twelve disciples who walked with him, learned from him, and -quite literally- followed in his footsteps. He was their rabbi, and they were his apprentices. Each disciple received a personal invitation to follow Jesus, indicating that they were hand-picked and not a random bunch of men. However, this brings up questions as to why Judas Iscariot was part of the twelve, if all-knowing Jesus was aware that he would later turn against him and play a crucial role in his death on the cross.
What Did it Mean to be a Disciple?
Discipleship is not a term we use a lot in modern Western cultures. The closest idea we have to it is something like an apprenticeship or mentoring relationship. When you became a disciple of someone, you were “schooled” by them. You walked with them, lived life their way, listened to them, watched them closely – all with the goal of, hopefully, gaining some of their wisdom and becoming like them.
“Discipleship meant much more than just the transfer of information . . . it referred to imitating the teacher’s life, inculcating his values, and reproducing his teachings.” – Greg Herrick
The Gospel books of the Bible (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) tell the story of how Jesus discipled his followers, giving the readers insight into this valuable ancient way.
The Twelve Disciples of Jesus
According to the Gospels, Jesus had twelve disciples who were like his ‘inner circle’. He called each one of them by name (reminiscent of Isaiah 43) and extended an invitation to them to follow him.
But Jesus’ disciples were not typical. They have been called a hodgepodge group or peanut gallery, coming from different vocational backgrounds, and bringing unique perspectives and challenges to the narrative.
The group had interesting dynamics – John was closest to Jesus. A crew of brothers formed part of them. There were fishermen, tax collectors, and even a medical doctor. And Judas? He was the Treasurer, responsible for their money.
Matthew 4:18-20
“They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.”
Judas Iscariot – Treasurer, Liar, Enemy
One of the disciples was named Judas Iscariot. He was called a devil by Jesus (John 6:70), and he stole from them (John 12:6). He looked for a chance to hand Jesus over to those who wanted him dead in exchange for thirty pieces of silver:
“Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.” (Matthew 26:14-16)
According to the Bible, Jesus knew from the very beginning who would betray him (John 6:64). At the Last Supper, Jesus finally identified the identity of his traitor to the whole gathering, leading Judas into his final act.
How Judas the Disciple Betrayed Jesus
“While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him. Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.””
–Matthew 26:47-50
Why Did Jesus Allow Judas to follow Him?
If Jesus was all-knowing and truly who he claimed to be, why would he allow the traitor in? The answer lies in the bigger story. The Bible’s story is one of love, rejection, and hope. People rejected God’s relationship for selfish reasons, yet he promised to send someone who would make it all right (Jesus).
Jesus knew what Judas would do and yet he still graciously included him. On the other hand, this indicates that Jesus needed to die. As he repeatedly told his disciples, his death and resurrection were part of God’s plan. It was no mistake.
Considering how the resurrected Jesus restored Peter (John 21) and appeared to many others who doubted him, one can only guess at what might have happened had Judas not taken his own life before he had the chance to give the story a different ending…
