Spy Wednesday - The Cost Of Betrayal

The Cost of Betrayal
Matthew 26:1–16
(Also read: Mark 14:1–11; Luke 22:1–6; John 12:1–8)

Good afternoon BFB.  A lot can happen in Seven Days. We have arrived at Spy Wednesday of Holy Week and it is truly a turning point.

Jesus has just foretold His crucifixion. The religious leaders are plotting. And in the heart of one disciple, a devastating choice is being made.

In Matthew 26:14–16, Judas agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. A man who had walked with Jesus, heard His voice, seen His miracles—sells Him out. But in the verses just before, a woman pours out a jar of expensive perfume to anoint Jesus, giving her most valuable possession as an act of love and honor.

Two people. Two hearts. Two responses to the same Savior. While Judas is counting coins, she’s counting the cost of worship. This contrast couldn’t be clearer: Betrayal and devotion meet on the same day.

3 Lessons from Spy Wednesday:

1. Betrayal Begins in the Heart Before It Becomes an Act
Judas didn’t betray Jesus on impulse. It was a slow drift. His love had shifted, and his motives had changed. Check your heart. Unresolved pain or unmet expectations can slowly push us away from the One we once followed with passion.

Take time today to examine your heart. Are there areas where resentment, disappointment, or selfish ambition have crept in unnoticed? Maybe it’s bitterness in a relationship, frustration in ministry, or a desire for control. Ask God to purify your motives and renew your desire to serve Him faithfully. Don’t wait for a dramatic fall—confess the slow fade.

2. Jesus Knew—and Still Loved
Jesus didn’t cast Judas aside. He still welcomed him to the table. Still called him “friend.” His love reaches even the ones who wound Him. That’s not weakness—it’s divine strength. Jesus loves even when we don’t deserve it.

When people hurt or disappoint you, resist the urge to retaliate or write them off. Jesus shows us how to love even those who may never apologize. That doesn’t mean you lack boundaries—but it does mean you extend grace. Who in your life is hard to love right now? Choose to reflect Jesus’ love, even when it’s uncomfortable or undeserved.

3. You Can’t Follow Jesus and Sell Him Out at the Same Time
Judas walked with Jesus physically, but his heart was somewhere else. Following Jesus requires full surrender. He doesn’t just want our presence—He wants our loyalty, our worship, our lives.

Ask yourself: Why am I following Jesus? Is it for what He can give, or for who He is? Evaluate your motives for serving, praying, attending BFB or leading others. Is your discipleship fueled by love—or convenience? Real devotion costs something. Today, recommit to following Jesus with your whole heart—even when it’s not easy or popular.

Closing Thought:

• On this Spy Wednesday, choose worship over betrayal.
• Choose sacrifice over selfishness.
• Choose Jesus—fully, faithfully, forever.