Read: Mark 14:17-21
As they were reclining at table and eating, Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.” (v. 18)
When discussing God’s attributes and character, theologians often use the Latin prefix omni, which means “all” or “every.” With reference to God, they frequently describe God as omnipotent (“all-powerful”), omnipresent (“everywhere present”), and omniscient (“all-knowing”).
In today’s Scripture, we see Jesus, the divine Son of God, exercising God’s omniscience. Jesus knows everything. He knows what will happen—that he will be betrayed. He also knows who will do it—and, he knows the sinful thoughts in Judas’ heart.
There are two things to notice here. First, Judas may be able to fool the disciples, who seem to have no clue regarding his traitorous intentions. But he can’t fool Jesus. Jesus knows the thoughts and intentions of Judas’ heart, which means he also knows our hearts (see Hebrews 4:12-13).
Second, Jesus doesn’t prevent it from happening. He doesn’t stop Judas, although he easily could have—because he is omnipotent also. But he lets it happen because he knows that it’s all a part of God’s plan. Judas exercises his freedom to sin, but Jesus doesn’t overrule him. Nor does he overrule us. God does not force anyone to do anything. Judas bore the responsibility for his sin—and so do we. —John Koedyker
As you pray, thank God that although he knows everything about you, he still loves you.
About the Author
Rev. John Koedyker has been a pastor in the Reformed Church in America for more than forty years. His ministry began in Japan where he served as a missionary for ten years. After that he has served churches in Iowa and Michigan. He has served as the Stated Clerk of Muskegon Classis, RCA, for the past sixteen years and also presently serves as pastor of congregational care at First Reformed Church of Grand Haven, Michigan. John has written a number of times previously for Words of Hope and he has a bi-monthly religion column in the Grand Haven Tribune. He is married to Marilyn, and they have four grown children and seven grandchildren.
