LRC, Houston - the weekends-free church in Houston, Texas

Last year when the Gospel of Judas came out of course the radical right wing of fundamentalism Christianity yelled and screamed. It’s a fake, it’s a fake. The Gospel of Judas gives a different view of the relationship between Jesus and Judas, offering new insights into the disciple who betrayed Jesus. Unlike the accounts in the canonical Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, in which Judas is portrayed as a reviled traitor, this newly discovered Gospel portrays Judas as acting at Jesus’ request when he hands Jesus over to the authorities. So, let us reason a little here. I know it’s not the religious thing to do, but let’s try to use a little common sense. Just a little?

Wasn’t Judas the one seated right next to Jesus at the last supper? Can Luke 22:3 (Satan entered into Judas) make any sense in light of the big picture? Ah, I know if you think the Bible is inerrant then I’m a heretic here.

Wasn’t Judas chosen? Prepared for this specific occasion, and known by Jesus?

And how could Jesus let one of “His own” be led into hell as is assumed? Didn’t Jesus say several times that ALL of His sheep were protected and that none were lost? Didn’t He thank the Father for that? What saith John 18:9, John 17:12, and John 6:39? Wasn’t Jesus aware of what was coming, in charge of the events, even directing them?

Didn’t He intentionally let the drama unfold? Wasn’t Jesus the “director” of this act?

So then, in light of all the above, how can we trash Judas for helping Jesus carry out His plan? Of course I’m being a little too logical. Let’s be religious and stick with the trashing of Judas!