Witnesses: A Table for the World

Judas is often reduced to a one-word label: betrayer. But what if his story reveals something uncomfortable about us? As the tension of Jesus’ final week builds, this message, from Robyn Elliott explores the dangerous blind spots of faith - how even those closest to Jesus can miss his heart, justify harmful means for a holy cause, and betray the way of Jesus without realizing it. Discussion Questions: 1. Judas walked with Jesus for three years and still betrayed him. What does that reveal about how easy it is to miss the heart of Jesus, even for sincere followers? 2. The message suggests Judas may have betrayed Jesus not for money but for a cause. Why can believing we’re “on God’s side” sometimes lead people to justify harmful actions? 3. The religious leaders thought eliminating Jesus was necessary to protect their system. Where do we still see systems - religious or otherwise - silencing voices that challenge the status quo? 4. Judas was disappointed that Jesus wasn’t the kind of leader he expected. How do unmet expectations of God shape our faith, either toward deeper trust or toward resentment? 5. Jesus was betrayed through sacred gestures - a shared bowl and a kiss. What are ways Christians today might use sacred language, rituals, or beliefs while still missing the heart of Jesus? 6. Author Brian Zahnd says, “The means are the end in the process of becoming.” How do the methods we choose shape who we become spiritually? 7. Mark’s Gospel consistently refers to Judas as “Judas, one of the Twelve,” and gives almost no explanation for his motives. Why might Mark intentionally leave Judas’ motivations ambiguous while emphasizing his identity as one of the Twelve? What might that suggest about Mark’s message to the early church - and to us - about where betrayal can come from? 8. Lent is described as a season of “sight, not shame.” What blind spots in your life or faith might God be inviting you to see more clearly?