Both Peter and Judas betrayed Jesus. But only Peter was restored. So what was the difference? Judas’ betrayal was worse than Peter’s denial but that isn’t the reason that Peter was able to be restored and Judas not. There is no sin so great that cannot be expiated by Jesus. There is another similarity between Judas and Peter. They both were cut to the heart when they realised what they had done. But here is the difference. Judas despaired and killed himself. Peter was probably also in a state of despair but after his resurrection Jesus went to him and gave him the opportunity for reconciliation (John 21:15ff). Jesus knew where Judas’ actions would lead. There was something going on with Judas that enabled Satan to use him (22:3), but, again, that did not put him beyond redemption. No one is beyond redemption. Anyone can be forgiven if they put their faith in Jesus Christ. And here is the difference. Peter did not lose faith in Jesus. By the last supper Judas had already lost whatever kind of faith he had in Jesus. Peter still had faith. It was not nearly as strong as he thought it was, but he still had a little faith. This little bit of faith that Peter had was precious to Jesus. When Jesus predicted Peter’s betrayal, he also said this: “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail.” Satan wanted Peter as he had taken Judas, but Peter’s faith would be the key to him overcoming Satan in the end.
Ask God to increase your faith.
Read Luke 22:47-65
