By Robert Roberts
Jesus tolerated Judas because Judas outwardly conformed to the precepts of righteousness during the 3-1/2 years that he sustained the part of "one of the twelve." Jesus "knew" him, but did not act on a knowledge that could not have been appreciated by either Judas or the other disciples. He waited till Judas should reveal himself, which is the divine procedure with us all.
Though a thief, he perpetrated his embezzlements under pious pretences-- "Ought not this ointment to have been sold for 300 pence, and given to the poor?"
If Jesus had expelled him from the apostolic body before his real character
was manifest, it would have caused confusion, besides removing a needed
instrument for the hour of betrayal. --October, 1897
