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Betrayal is a gross violation of trust and can be one of the most devastating forms of pain inflicted upon a human being. The suffering of betrayal is often magnified by a sense of vulnerability and exposure.  

For many, the pain of betrayal is worse than physical violence, deceit, or prejudice. Betrayal destroys the foundation of trust. I encounter many who are shocked that they are betrayed. There is a spirit of entitlement that cries out that it is unfair. Justice and judgement belongs to God.

Is betrayal a part of a disciple’s experience? Jesus warns me that I will be betrayed. It may be extreme, leading to death. I must count this cost as a result of my following Jesus. It will hurt but Jesus has given me the power of the Holy Spirit.

Good news: I am promised a reward. I have hope. I am at peace with what Jesus challenges me to do. God has given me the Holy Spirit and all the power I need. In fact, even more power than I need. We are a people of hope.

  • Matthew 10:21 (NASB) —  “Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death.”
  • Daniel 7:25 (NASB) — He will speak out against the Most High and wear down the saints of the Highest One, and he will intend to make alterations in times and in law; and they will be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time.

Jesus knows that betrayal will happen. Jesus demands clarity of loyalty. I cannot serve Jesus and anything else. Jesus is my Master (Owner). I am His slave. I can’t have divided loyalty.

  • Matthew 10:35–36 (NASB) — “For I came to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law;  and a man’s enemies will be the members of his household.”
  • Micah 7:6 (NASB) — For son treats father contemptuously, daughter rises up against her mother, daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; a man’s enemies are the men of his own household.