The Dilemma of Judas at the Last Supper

The Last Supper is a pivotal moment in Christian history, where the Eucharist or Holy Communion is first instituted. However, the role of Judas Iscariot during this significant event has sparked much debate. Was he included in the community, or was he excluded? Let's delve into the historical and theological intricacies.

Was Judas Truly Part of the Last Supper?

From a factual standpoint, evidence suggests that Judas did indeed take part in the Passover meal. "And He answered and said, 'He that dippeth his hand with Me in the dish, the same shall betray Me.'" (Matthew 26:23). Jesus explicitly pointed out Judas and declared his betrayal. However, "Then dipping the piece of bread He gave it to Judas the son of Simon Iscariot. As soon as Judas had taken the bread Satan entered into him, so Jesus told him, 'What you are about to do, do quickly.' From then on He did not speak to them any further, but He rose from supper and put aside His garments, and taking a towel, tied it around His waist. Then He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. But when He came to Judas, He had given him a piece of bread. And when he had received the piece of bread, immediately Satan entered into him" (John 13:26-27).

After taking the bread, Judas left the table, disillusioned by his actions. "So He rose from supper and went out. Now it was night" (John 13:30). Thus, Judas was present but not fully included in the act of communion.

Theological Interpretations

Some scholars, like Gary Hughes, explore the theological implications of Judas's role. Hughes argues that the concept of 'raising up' or 'resurrection' in the verses you cited could apply to Judas's conversion and eventual redemption, rather than his betrayal. Consider the following passages:

"And this is the will of him who sent me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day" (John 6:40). This passage implies that Judas, despite his betrayal, saw and believed in Jesus and was granted eternal life.

"He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him" (John 6:56). In the context of the Last Supper, Judas did partake of the bread, which symbolizes the flesh of Jesus. Therefore, he did participate in a form of communion, albeit a corrupted one.

The fact that Judas was included in the initial actions of the meal, but not the shared fellowship that followed, raises questions about the nature of antinomianism or the breaking of the covenant. "The one who dips his hand with Me in the dish the same shall betray Me. The Son of Man will go as it has been determined, but woe to that man through whom He is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born" (Matthew 26:24). This suggests that the initial act of sharing broke a sacred bond that Judas could not repair.

The True Meaning of Communion

Communion, as practiced in Christianity, is a communal and shared act rooted in trust and faith. Judas's betrayal disrupted the communal nature of the Last Supper. However, his initial act of eating the bread and sharing the wine remains a significant moment in Christian history.

"I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is My flesh" (John 6:51). Jesus's comments emphasize the transformative nature of the Eucharist, indicating that it transcends the actions of any single individual, including Judas. Even Judas, despite his grievous betrayal, could potentially be part of this life-giving journey.

Although "For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when He was betrayed took bread...", the emphasis is on Jesus's institution and the communal aspect of the sacrament, which Judas did not fully participate in.

Conclusion

Judas's role at the Last Supper is complex and nuanced. While he did partake in the physical act of eating the bread and drinking the wine, his ultimate betrayal disrupts the communal and spiritual significance of the event. The true essence of the Last Supper lies in its communal and redemptive nature, symbolizing the covenant between Jesus and his disciples. Even in the midst of betrayal, the sacramental act remains a powerful and transformative moment in Christian history.