Jesus Faces His Betrayal | Dr. Stephen Conley

Text:  Mark 14:43-52   The Covert Corruption of the Crowd (Mark 14:43)   Jesus is met by a crowd of over 600 under the cover of secrecy and darkness to take Him by force illegally. The crowd consisted of Judas, chief priests, scribes, elders, and soldiers.   The Unmasked Treachery of Judas (Mark 14:44-46) Jesus unmasks Judas for the hypocrite and betrayer that he was in his heart. Judas betrays Jesus as He predicted at the Passover meal. "Judas stands as a warning about the evil potential of spiritual carelessness, squandered opportunity, sinful lusts, and hardness of the heart." (MacArthur)   The Reckless Desertion of the Disciples (Mark 14:47,50) Peter makes a bold and reckless move to prove his worth. The disciples abandon Jesus just as He predicted.   The Majestic Composure of Jesus (Mark 14:48-52) Jesus triumphantly stays calm and stands firm under pressure. Jesus is in complete control as He accomplishes His mission and fulfills the Scriptures.