Friends or Foes? A Resurrection Reflection on Peter and Judas
By Jacquiline Cox | Listen Linda Speaks
As Resurrection Day approaches, we gather in reverence to honor the risen Savior. We celebrate victory over death, the empty tomb, and the hope of new beginnings. But nestled in the shadows of that glorious resurrection story are two men—Peter and Judas—whose personal failures challenge us to look deeper.
They were both called. Both chosen. Both loved.
And yet, both betrayed Jesus.
Two Disciples. Two Destinies.
Simon Peter and Judas Iscariot were not background characters. They were part of Jesus’ inner circle. They walked beside Him, witnessed miracles, heard His private prayers, and broke bread at His table.
And yet—when the moment of testing came—both men stumbled.
Judas conspired to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14–16).
Peter, out of fear, denied even knowing Jesus—three times (Luke 22:54–62).
Caption: “The Last Supper – where friends and foes shared a table.”
The Friend Who Folded
Peter was passionate. Loyal. Loud. But when Jesus was arrested and the pressure mounted, fear took over. He denied Jesus three times before the rooster crowed, just as Jesus had predicted (Luke 22:61).
But here’s the difference: Peter repented. Scripture says he “wept bitterly.” And later, the risen Jesus restored Peter with three affirmations of love (John 21:15–17). His failure wasn’t final—it became the foundation for his future ministry.
The Foe Who Fled
Judas, on the other hand, premeditated his betrayal. But after realizing the horror of his actions, guilt overtook him. He tried to return the silver (Matthew 27:3–5), but instead of seeking Jesus’ forgiveness, he isolated himself and ended his life.
Where Peter ran toward grace, Judas ran from it.
The Real Question: Who Are You in the Story?
This Resurrection season, we must ask ourselves:
- When we fail—do we seek reconciliation or retreat in shame?
- Are the people around us helping us return to grace, or enabling our guilt?
- Do we know the difference between a real friend who fails and a foe who flatters?
Sometimes a friend can deny you, and still be restored.
Sometimes a foe can embrace you, and still destroy you.
Caption: “The Resurrection reminds us that redemption is possible.”
Grace After Betrayal
Resurrection Day is more than a date on the Christian calendar. It’s a declaration that failure is not final, and no betrayal is beyond forgiveness when brought to the feet of Jesus.
Peter’s life proves that God can still use us after our worst moments. Judas reminds us of the tragic result when guilt outweighs grace.
This season, reflect on your circle. Who around you is a Peter—flawed but faithful? Who is a Judas—close but cunning?
And more importantly—which one are you becoming?
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Whether you’ve denied Him like Peter or betrayed trust like Judas, remember this: Jesus rose for both.
The difference lies in your response.
Will you run from grace or run toward it?
Jacquiline Cox is the voice behind “Listen Linda Speaks,” a column on Patheos exploring faith, healing, identity, and the power of spiritual boundaries. Follow her for weekly reflections on truth, transformation, and triumph.
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