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One of the most controversial assassinations in recent history was that of former President John Kennedy. The entire world was shattered at that horrendous event. The plot to crucify our Lord was even more atrocious. Just before Jesus died, He gave a discourse from the Mount of Olives. Matthew 25:1 records that when He finished, He alerted His disciples that His crucifixion was just ahead. He said, “As you know, Passover begins in two days, and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.” While He was speaking, the leading priests and elders were conspiring to capture Jesus secretly and kill him. They were jealous of His popularity; and they feared that Jesus would provoke the Romans to take away their position and power. They agreed to get rid of Jesus, “But not during the Passover celebration” they said, “Because the people may riot.” Sadly, they feared the uprising of the people but not the displeasure of God. Judas became their solution. Luke tells us that Satan entered his heart; and he sought out the leaders to discuss the best way to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted that he would help them, and they agreed to give him money. Judas then looked for the best way to betray Jesus secretly. From a human perspective, jealousy, power, and greed led to Jesus’ death. May we never let jealousy, power, and greed consume us.
