His downfall began when he was put in charge of the common funds.  He was probably singled out for the post of treasurer on account of his business ability, but from that moment Judas the Apostle began to change into Judas the Traitor.  Judas loved money and the temptation in handling the funds while living a life of holy poverty was too much for him.  As St John says, “…he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it” (NRSV, John 12:6).

When we recall that so many of Our Lord’s warnings were uttered in the presence of Judas, about whom Jesus had no illusions, they assume an added significance.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth…” (NRSV, Matthew 6:19).

“You cannot serve God and wealth” (NRSV, Matthew 6:24).

“…consider whether the light in you is not darkness” (NRSV, Luke 11:35).

Those warnings, however, were without effect.  Judas’ appetite for riches, already sharpened by his misuse of the treasurership, was no longer to be satisfied merely by what he could embezzle: his mind turned to far grander designs.