We like to think betrayal looks obvious—shadows, dramatic exits, a villain revealed. But the story of Judas reminds us that betrayal often begins at a table, in quiet negotiations, and in the small compromises of the heart. What are the secret deals you make—where you trade loyalty, generosity, or truth for comfort, approval, or gain? This passage matters because it shows how closeness to Jesus does not make us immune to temptation; it shows how quickly love can be sold.
In Matthew 26:14–16, Mark 14:10–11, and Luke 22:3–6 we read the same tragic arc: Judas goes to the religious leaders and agrees to betray Jesus. Matthew tells us the price—thirty pieces of silver—and that Judas went to them to arrange the betrayal. Mark gives a briefer report of the agreement. Luke adds a stark spiritual detail: Satan enters Judas, and he actively looks for the right moment to hand Jesus over. These are three versions of the same heartbreaking decision; the Synoptics agree on the act even as they highlight different facets—money, secrecy, and spiritual attack. (John also records Judas’ departure in his own way, but the bargaining scene is in the Synoptics.)
This moment exposes something essential about the human condition: proximity to Jesus, or to good, does not prevent our hearts from being captured by other loves. It reveals how sin can be transactional—offered in exchange for power, safety, or wealth—and how evil can exploit our blind spots. Don’t miss the weight: this isn’t simply a plot point; it’s a diagnosis. Yet the Gospel’s grace is not absent. Even amid betrayal, Jesus’ mission moves forward; his love endures, inviting repentance rather than abandoning the world to its bargains.
Practical next step: name one “thirty pieces of silver” in your life—something you’d trade loyalty to Christ for (money, status, approval, comfort). Tell God honestly about it, then tell one trusted friend or mentor and set a concrete next step—remove the temptation, change a habit, give a portion away, or create accountability. Stay at the table a little longer today—read a few verses, pray, or take communion—and choose presence over the easy escape.
In Matthew 26:14–16, Mark 14:10–11, and Luke 22:3–6 we read the same tragic arc: Judas goes to the religious leaders and agrees to betray Jesus. Matthew tells us the price—thirty pieces of silver—and that Judas went to them to arrange the betrayal. Mark gives a briefer report of the agreement. Luke adds a stark spiritual detail: Satan enters Judas, and he actively looks for the right moment to hand Jesus over. These are three versions of the same heartbreaking decision; the Synoptics agree on the act even as they highlight different facets—money, secrecy, and spiritual attack. (John also records Judas’ departure in his own way, but the bargaining scene is in the Synoptics.)
This moment exposes something essential about the human condition: proximity to Jesus, or to good, does not prevent our hearts from being captured by other loves. It reveals how sin can be transactional—offered in exchange for power, safety, or wealth—and how evil can exploit our blind spots. Don’t miss the weight: this isn’t simply a plot point; it’s a diagnosis. Yet the Gospel’s grace is not absent. Even amid betrayal, Jesus’ mission moves forward; his love endures, inviting repentance rather than abandoning the world to its bargains.
Practical next step: name one “thirty pieces of silver” in your life—something you’d trade loyalty to Christ for (money, status, approval, comfort). Tell God honestly about it, then tell one trusted friend or mentor and set a concrete next step—remove the temptation, change a habit, give a portion away, or create accountability. Stay at the table a little longer today—read a few verses, pray, or take communion—and choose presence over the easy escape.
Matthew: 26:14-16
Judas Iscariot goes to the chief priests, agrees to betray Jesus in exchange for thirty pieces of silver, and from then on looks for an opportunity to hand him over.
Open VerseMark: 14:10-11
Judas Iscariot went to the chief priests to betray Jesus, and they were pleased and promised him money. He then began looking for a chance to hand Jesus over when no crowd was present.
Open VerseLuke: 22:3-6
Satan enters Judas Iscariot, who then meets with the chief priests and temple officers to arrange Jesus' betrayal; they agree to pay him, and he seeks an opportunity to hand Jesus over when no crowd is present.
Open Verse