The Great Pretender

Some of you may be old enough to remember a popular song entitled, "The Great Pretender," recorded by The Platters, with Tony Williams on lead vocals, and released as a single in November 1955.  The song reached No. 1 on Billboard's Top 100, and No. 5 on the UK charts.  The song was rerecorded in 1987 by Freddie Mercury whose version reached No. 4 on the UK charts.  I don’t know much about the song personally.  But the concept is important for us to consider this Sunday.

The Bible tells us Jesus had twelve primary disciples.  They followed Jesus when he called them.  They listened to his teaching, saw him perform miracles, watched him walk on water, heal the sick, cast out demons, and talk about the Kingdom of God.  Jesus offered his followers hope and healing in the midst of a dark and broken world.  Yet, there was one “disciple” who really wasn’t a disciple.  He was with Jesus but wasn’t with Jesus.  His name was Judas Iscariot.  He was a great pretender.

Judas’ story is revealed this Sunday as we continue our study of the Gospel of Mark.  Turns out, Judas would betray Jesus.  The betrayal was done with a kiss – a sign of friendship and endearment.  It is the epitome of hypocrisy and deceit.  The man who pretended to follow Jesus turns on him and seals his death with a kiss!  But before we cast Judas on the dung heap of humanity, we better look in the mirror.  Might we also betray Jesus at times?  Could we also be guilty of being a “pretend disciple”?

Join us this Sunday as we unpack the story of Judas’ betrayal of Jesus found in Mark 14.  We’ll discover three important truths about this passage which have the potential to change your life and give you hope.  Traditional worship begins at 9:00 AM.  Contemporary worship begins at 10:45 AM.  A nursery is provided for children.  Refreshments will be served between services.  All are welcome.  Tell your friends, forward this email, and let’s meet at God’s house before the big game this Sunday!