[NYCynic]

I guess its plain to see that this is confusing for me. What exactly are the supporters of this find trying to accomplish? Are there people using this so-called "Book of Judas" to advocate an absence of personal responsibility? If Judas is "the one who is lost" in John 17:12 is he more culpable than the other players in the physical acts that led to Jesus' death? Is any person or any act truly unforgivable in the eyes of the Lord?
Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris

[seanmerc]

Chris,

The Bible makes many references to those who will attempt to deceive people with false doctrine. That's exactly what the "Book of Judas" people are trying to do. They are trying to undermine the authority of God's word.

Judas is truly a tragic figure (see Mark 14:21). He let ambition and greed blind him to Jesus' divinity, in spite of three years sitting under His teaching. As for his relative culpability, I think of him as the instrument that Satan used to carry out his evil (and failed) plan. There was plenty of blame to go around.

As for unforgivable sin, the only one is blasphemy of the Spirit. See Matthew 12:31-32. Blasphemy of the Spirit is rejection of His testimony of the person and work of Jesus Christ.

You're asking some excellent questions!