Judge Edward Davila said to Elizabeth Homes, the founder of Theranos: “Failure is normal. But failure by fraud is not OK.” She promoted an idea, which was not true, that testing blood with innovative technology, would diagnose diseases like cancer, and diabetes within a matter of minutes. She thus cheated the medical professionals, customers, and investors. (BBC news 19 November 2022) Failure is possible, normal, and could be an accident. However, failure through deception or fraud, or premeditated conspiracy would be punished severely.
Peter was warned: One of the prominent disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, Peter was overconfident. When Lord Jesus warned him that he would deny Him three times before the cock would crow two times. Peter said that it could never happen. He expressed his resolve by stating that he will die rather than deny Lord Jesus Christ. (Luke 22:61-62)
Peter failed: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Peter showed courage by drawing his sword and cutting off the ear of Malchus, a servant of the High Priest. Yes, when the Sanhedrin was holding court in the night at the house of the High Priest, Peter denied Lord Jesus Christ. A simple statement by a servant maid made him shudder and deny Lord Jesus Christ thrice. (John 18:10; Luke 22:54-62)
Judas a conspirer: In contrast, Judas had unwarranted expectations from the Messiah. Hence, he thought Lord Jesus Christ did not measure up to the image of a Warrior King like David. Disillusioned, he became a willing tool in the hands of the High Priest and other dominating religious groups including Pharisees. Sadly, he bargained and agreed to do this wicked task for thirty pieces of silver. (Mark 14:10-11)
Failure by fraud: Judas failed, not by environment or inner weakness, or fear. He failed because of ‘fraud’ that he sold the Saviour for a meager amount – a price of a slave.
Forgiveness: Peter repented immediately and was willing to commit again to the Lord. He was forgiven and restored. (John 21)
Suicide: Judas could not gather up the courage to repent, hence killed himself.
Do I deliberately involve myself in sin?