The list concludes ominously: 'Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him' (Σιμων ο Κανανιτης και Ιουδας Ισκαριωτης ο και παραδους αυτον). 'Canaanite' likely means Zealot (Luke 6:15), identifying Simon with the revolutionary movement seeking Rome's overthrow. The Twelve included both tax collector (Matthew, collaborator with Rome) and Zealot (Simon, Rome's enemy)—Jesus reconciles enemies in one community. Judas's identification as 'who also betrayed him' casts shadow over the list. Matthew writes after the betrayal, knowing how the story ends. That Jesus chose His own betrayer demonstrates either divine sovereignty (knowing and using even evil for redemption) or profound trust (giving Judas genuine opportunity despite foreknowledge). Judas's inclusion warns that proximity to Jesus doesn't guarantee salvation.
Historical Context
Zealots were Jewish revolutionaries advocating violent overthrow of Roman occupation. They assassinated collaborators and Roman officials. Simon's presence among the Twelve, alongside Matthew the tax collector, created potential conflict. Jesus' kingdom transcended political divisions. Judas Iscariot ('man from Kerioth') may have been the only Judean among Galilean disciples. His betrayal fulfilled prophecy (Psalm 41:9, 55:12-14) while remaining his moral responsibility. Early church wrestled with how Jesus' sovereign plan included human evil without eliminating human accountability.
Questions for Reflection
How does Jesus' inclusion of both Matthew and Simon demonstrate the gospel's power to reconcile enemies?
What does Judas's betrayal despite three years with Jesus teach about the necessity of genuine heart change?
How do we reconcile divine sovereignty and human responsibility in Judas's betrayal?
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Analysis & Commentary
The list concludes ominously: 'Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him' (Σιμων ο Κανανιτης και Ιουδας Ισκαριωτης ο και παραδους αυτον). 'Canaanite' likely means Zealot (Luke 6:15), identifying Simon with the revolutionary movement seeking Rome's overthrow. The Twelve included both tax collector (Matthew, collaborator with Rome) and Zealot (Simon, Rome's enemy)—Jesus reconciles enemies in one community. Judas's identification as 'who also betrayed him' casts shadow over the list. Matthew writes after the betrayal, knowing how the story ends. That Jesus chose His own betrayer demonstrates either divine sovereignty (knowing and using even evil for redemption) or profound trust (giving Judas genuine opportunity despite foreknowledge). Judas's inclusion warns that proximity to Jesus doesn't guarantee salvation.