Betrayal is one of the most painful experiences a person can endure. It strikes at the core of trust, often leaving scars that are difficult to heal. Throughout Scripture, betrayal is not hidden but openly addressed. From the story of Joseph being betrayed by his brothers, to David’s anguish over friends who turned against him, and ultimately Judas’ betrayal of Jesus, the Bible shows us both the reality of human weakness and the power of God’s faithfulness.
The pain of betrayal can leave us feeling abandoned, but the Bible reminds us that God never leaves nor forsakes His people. His Word provides wisdom, comfort, and perspective when we are wounded by disloyalty. These verses remind us that betrayal is not the end of the story—God’s justice, healing, and restoration follow. They teach us how to respond in faith rather than bitterness, encouraging us to forgive, to trust God’s timing, and to rely on Him for strength.
For many, betrayal comes from those closest to us—family members, friends, or trusted companions. This makes it even harder to endure. Yet, Scripture reassures us that even when people fail, God remains steadfast. Betrayal does not surprise Him, nor can it thwart His plans. In fact, God often uses betrayal as part of His greater purposes, as we see in the lives of Joseph and Jesus.
In this article, we will look at 35 powerful Bible verses about betrayal. Each verse carries timeless lessons for those facing betrayal, offering comfort, guidance, and hope. May these Scriptures remind you that though betrayal wounds deeply, God’s love heals completely.
35 Powerful Bible Verses About Betrayal (2025)
1. Psalm 41:9
“Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.”
Intro
David laments the betrayal of a close friend—someone he trusted and shared meals with. This verse captures the deep sting of treachery from those closest to us. The betrayal of a friend hurts more than an enemy’s attack, because it comes from within the circle of intimacy. For Christians, this passage also foreshadows Judas’ betrayal of Jesus, showing that even God’s chosen servants experienced such pain. It reminds us that betrayal is a reality of life, but also that God sees, understands, and ultimately vindicates His children. When others fail us, God’s faithfulness remains unshaken.
2. Matthew 26:14-15
“Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.”
This verse recounts Judas’ decision to betray Jesus for money. The betrayal is shocking, not only because Judas was one of the twelve disciples but also because it was done for such a small sum. It shows how greed and sin can corrupt even those closest to Christ. For believers, this verse is a warning against allowing worldly desires to take precedence over loyalty to God. Betrayal often begins with compromise and misplaced priorities. It reminds us to guard our hearts, remain faithful, and not let temptation lead us to betray our relationship with the Lord.
3. Proverbs 19:5
“A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.”
Betrayal often comes through lies, slander, or false testimony. This verse reminds us that God sees and judges such treachery. A false witness may appear to prosper for a time, but justice is inevitable. The promise here reassures believers that betrayal and dishonesty will not go unnoticed by God. When others lie about us or betray us with words, we can trust that God will vindicate us. This verse also calls us to integrity, ensuring that we do not become instruments of betrayal ourselves. It underscores that truth always stands, while deceit leads to ruin.
4. Luke 22:48
“But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?”
This moment of Judas’ betrayal is one of the most striking in Scripture. The kiss, usually a sign of affection and loyalty, was twisted into a tool of betrayal. Jesus’ words reveal both sorrow and recognition of Judas’ act. For believers, this verse illustrates how betrayal often disguises itself under the mask of love or friendship. It reminds us to be discerning, for not every gesture of closeness is genuine. Yet, it also shows Christ’s composure in the face of betrayal, reminding us to trust God even when others wound us in the most intimate ways.
5. Micah 7:5-6
“Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom. For the son dishonoureth the father, the daughter riseth up against her mother, the daughter in law against her mother in law; a man’s enemies are the men of his own house.”
Micah describes a time of corruption when betrayal runs deep, even within families. The warning is sobering: trust is broken at every level, from friends to household relationships. This verse highlights the painful truth that betrayal often comes from those closest to us. Yet, it also serves as a reminder that our ultimate trust must be in God alone. Human relationships can fail, but God’s faithfulness never falters. For believers, this verse offers wisdom in handling disappointment while strengthening our resolve to lean wholly on God’s unchanging love and reliability.
6. John 13:21
“When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.”
Jesus openly acknowledged the betrayal that was about to unfold among His disciples. This verse shows His humanity—He was “troubled in spirit”—revealing that betrayal causes deep emotional pain even for the Son of God. Yet, it also highlights His divine knowledge and submission to the Father’s plan. For believers, this verse reminds us that betrayal may surprise us but never surprises God. It teaches us to find comfort in Christ, who understands our pain. It also calls us to remain faithful and not let fear, greed, or weakness lead us into acts of betrayal ourselves.
7. Jeremiah 12:6
“For even thy brethren, and the house of thy father, even they have dealt treacherously with thee; yea, they have called a multitude after thee: believe them not, though they speak fair words unto thee.”
God warns Jeremiah that even his own family had betrayed him with treacherous words. This verse emphasizes how betrayal often comes from those closest to us—relatives, friends, or trusted companions. The warning to not believe “fair words” highlights the danger of deceit disguised as kindness. For believers, this verse teaches us to seek discernment and place our ultimate trust in God rather than man. It also reassures us that God sees the injustice and sustains us when betrayal strikes. Even when family fails, the Lord remains our constant protector and source of strength.
8. Matthew 24:10
“And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.”
Jesus foretells a time of great testing when betrayal and hatred will abound. This verse warns believers that as the world drifts further from God, loyalty will be scarce, and betrayal will increase. It emphasizes the reality of broken trust in the last days, where faith and love are tested. For Christians, this verse is both a warning and a call to perseverance. Betrayal may shake relationships, but it should not shake our faith in Christ. It reminds us to guard our hearts, remain steadfast, and anchor our trust in the unchanging Word of God.
9. Psalm 55:12-13
“For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance.”
David pours out his heart about betrayal, describing the agony of being hurt by a close friend rather than an enemy. The pain of betrayal cuts deepest when it comes from those we trust. This verse resonates with anyone who has experienced disloyalty in relationships. It reminds us that betrayal is not new—God’s people have always faced it. Yet, it also points us to Christ, who was betrayed by Judas, fulfilling this very pattern. For believers, it provides comfort to know that God understands and offers healing for the wounds caused by treachery.
10. Obadiah 1:7
“All the men of thy confederacy have brought thee even to the border: the men that were at peace with thee have deceived thee, and prevailed against thee; they that eat thy bread have laid a wound under thee: there is none understanding in him.”
This prophetic verse reveals betrayal by allies and friends who turned against their partners. The imagery of those who shared bread laying a trap illustrates the shocking nature of treachery. Betrayal is painful not only because of the act itself but because it comes from those we trusted most. For believers, this verse is a reminder that human alliances may fail, but God’s promises never do. It encourages us to anchor our confidence in Him rather than in people. When deception wounds us, we can rest in the assurance that God’s justice and truth will prevail.
11. Job 19:19
“All my inward friends abhorred me: and they whom I loved are turned against me.”
Job expresses the heartache of betrayal during his suffering. Those he loved and trusted abandoned him, compounding his pain. This verse shows how betrayal often comes in seasons of weakness, when loyalty is needed most. For believers, it’s a reminder that human support may falter, but God never abandons His own. Job’s experience foreshadows the loneliness Christ endured, forsaken even by His disciples. This passage offers comfort that even when friends betray us, God’s love remains constant, and He can restore what was lost. Betrayal may leave scars, but His presence brings healing and hope.
12. Proverbs 25:9-10
“Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another: Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.”
This proverb warns against betraying confidence by exposing another’s secrets. Betrayal often takes the form of gossip, backbiting, or spreading what was entrusted privately. Such acts damage trust and bring shame not only to the betrayed but also to the betrayer. For believers, this verse stresses integrity in relationships and calls us to honor confidentiality. Trust is fragile, and betrayal of secrets breaks it quickly. This passage teaches us to handle disputes with discretion, seeking reconciliation rather than public exposure. In doing so, we reflect God’s character, who covers our sins with grace rather than exposing them.
13. Judges 16:18-19
“And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, Come up this once, for he hath shewed me all his heart. Then the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and brought money in their hand. And she made him sleep upon her knees; and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him, and his strength went from him.”
Samson’s story with Delilah is a powerful example of betrayal motivated by greed. After gaining his trust, she exploited his vulnerability for personal gain. This betrayal cost Samson his strength and freedom. For believers, this passage is a sobering warning to be discerning about where we place our trust. It reminds us that not everyone close to us has pure intentions. Betrayal often comes wrapped in affection but hides destructive motives. Yet, even when betrayed, God remains sovereign, and He can use our failures and wounds to bring about His greater purposes and deliverance.
14. Matthew 10:21
“And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death.”
Jesus warned His disciples of the extreme betrayal they would face, even from family members. This verse reveals how loyalty to Christ can divide households, causing some to betray their own kin. It highlights the depth of opposition believers may endure for the sake of the gospel. For Christians, it’s a reminder that our ultimate allegiance is to Christ, even above family ties. Betrayal may come from those dearest to us, but our faith must remain firm. This passage encourages us to endure suffering faithfully, knowing that Christ Himself experienced betrayal and will reward our steadfastness.
15. Psalm 55:20-21
“He hath put forth his hands against such as be at peace with him: he hath broken his covenant. The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.”
David describes the deception of betrayal, where smooth words conceal a heart of war. Betrayal is often masked by flattering speech and outward kindness, while inwardly lies malice. This verse captures the duplicity that makes betrayal so painful—it is not obvious until the damage is done. For believers, it warns against being deceived by appearances and calls us to seek discernment from God. It also encourages us to respond to betrayal not with bitterness but with trust in the Lord, who sees through false words and judges every intention of the heart.
16. Mark 14:44
“And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely.”
This verse describes Judas’ treacherous signal to identify Jesus for arrest. What makes this betrayal so painful is the use of a kiss—a gesture of friendship—turned into a tool of treachery. It reminds us that betrayal often comes clothed in intimacy, making it harder to recognize until it is too late. For Christians, Judas’ act highlights the depth of human sin but also the greatness of Christ’s love, who endured betrayal for our salvation. It calls us to remain sincere in our relationships and avoid hypocrisy, ensuring our words and actions align with truth.
17. Lamentations 1:2
“She weepeth sore in the night, and her tears are on her cheeks: among all her lovers she hath none to comfort her: all her friends have dealt treacherously with her, they are become her enemies.”
Jerusalem is personified as a grieving woman betrayed by her friends and allies. Once surrounded by companions, she is now abandoned in sorrow. This verse portrays betrayal as not only personal but also communal, affecting entire nations. For believers, it highlights the emptiness of trusting in human alliances over God’s faithfulness. Betrayal often leaves us feeling isolated and without comfort, but the Lord promises to be near to the brokenhearted. This passage reminds us that even in betrayal, God’s compassion remains, and He is the true source of comfort and restoration when others abandon us.
18. 2 Samuel 15:10
“But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron.”
Absalom’s betrayal of his father David stands as one of the most tragic stories in the Bible. Using deception and false loyalty, he plotted to usurp the throne. This verse shows how betrayal often begins with secret schemes fueled by ambition and pride. For believers, Absalom’s rebellion is a warning against treachery and dishonor, especially within families. It also reminds us that God’s purposes prevail despite betrayal. Though David was wounded by his son’s actions, the Lord upheld his throne. This passage encourages us to trust God’s sovereignty when we face betrayal in relationships.
19. Proverbs 11:13
“A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.”
This proverb contrasts betrayal with faithfulness. A talebearer, one who gossips and spreads secrets, destroys trust and causes division. By contrast, a faithful person protects confidentiality and builds trust. Betrayal often happens through words, whether by revealing secrets or slandering others. For Christians, this verse challenges us to be people of integrity, guarding what others entrust to us. It reminds us that true friendship and discipleship are marked by loyalty and discretion. The verse also encourages us to choose companions wisely, seeking those of faithful spirit rather than those who stir strife.
20. Luke 21:16
“And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.”
Jesus warns His followers that betrayal will come from all directions—even from family and close friends. This sobering verse underscores the cost of discipleship. Loyalty to Christ may lead to rejection, betrayal, and even death. Yet, it also strengthens us to endure, knowing that our Savior experienced betrayal Himself. For believers, this verse is both a warning and a comfort. Though betrayal may shake earthly ties, our eternal security in Christ remains firm. It calls us to perseverance, trusting that God will reward our faithfulness and grant us everlasting life in His kingdom.
21. Psalm 109:4-5
“For my love they are my adversaries: but I give myself unto prayer. And they have rewarded me evil for good, and hatred for my love.”
David expresses the pain of betrayal—responded to with hatred despite his love. Instead of retaliation, he turns to prayer, showing us the godly response to treachery. This verse reminds us that betrayal often involves receiving evil in exchange for good. For Christians, it emphasizes that prayer is our best defense against bitterness. When faced with injustice, we can trust God to vindicate us. This passage teaches us to rise above the actions of others, demonstrating love even when betrayed. It is a reminder that God sees every wound and rewards faithfulness with His peace and justice.
22. John 13:18
“I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.”
Here Jesus acknowledges Judas’ betrayal as fulfillment of Scripture. The act of sharing bread, a sign of closeness, became a symbol of treachery. This verse shows us that even betrayal falls within God’s sovereign plan. For believers, it reassures us that God is not caught off guard by the disloyalty of others. He can use betrayal to accomplish His greater purposes. It also teaches us that even when relationships are broken, our faith can remain strong because God’s Word never fails. Betrayal is painful, but it cannot derail God’s promises for His people.
23. Proverbs 25:19
“Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.”
This proverb paints a vivid picture of the disappointment caused by betrayal. Trusting an unfaithful person brings pain and dysfunction, like a broken tooth or dislocated joint. Betrayal leaves us unable to rely on what we once thought dependable. For Christians, this verse warns us to be discerning in where we place our trust. It reminds us that only God is truly reliable, and our ultimate confidence must rest in Him. When others fail us, we can lean on the Lord, who is steadfast and faithful in every season, never failing those who depend on Him.
24. Judges 9:23
“Then God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the men of Shechem; and the men of Shechem dealt treacherously with Abimelech.”
This verse shows betrayal within an alliance between Abimelech and the men of Shechem. Their treachery reveals how selfish ambition and power struggles often lead to betrayal. For believers, this passage highlights the danger of ungodly partnerships built on pride or deceit. Such alliances inevitably collapse in betrayal. It also reminds us that God oversees even acts of treachery, using them to bring justice and fulfill His purposes. This story encourages us to ground our trust and relationships in righteousness rather than in manipulation or convenience, ensuring that we stand firm in God’s truth.
25. Psalm 118:8
“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.”
This verse is a timeless reminder that human beings, no matter how close, can fail us. Betrayal teaches us the limits of human loyalty, but God’s faithfulness never fails. The psalmist wisely points us to place our ultimate trust in the Lord, who never betrays, abandons, or deceives. For Christians, this verse is both comfort and instruction. When betrayal wounds us, we can find security in God’s promises. It calls us to lean on Him fully, not on fragile human trust. In His unfailing love, we find healing, strength, and unshakable confidence for every trial.
26. 2 Timothy 3:2-3
“For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good.”
Paul warns Timothy of the characteristics of people in the last days, including betrayal through broken covenants and false accusations. This passage reminds us that betrayal is part of the sinful nature that grows worse when people turn from God. For believers, it is both a warning and a call to live differently. Instead of selfishness and treachery, we are called to loyalty, faithfulness, and truth. This verse helps us recognize betrayal as a symptom of sin’s corruption, reminding us to anchor our hearts in Christ, who empowers us to remain faithful in all circumstances.
27. Zechariah 11:12-13
“And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. And the Lord said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prised at of them. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the Lord.”
This prophetic passage foreshadows Judas’ betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. It highlights the cheap price at which the Messiah was betrayed, underscoring the depth of human treachery. For Christians, it reminds us that betrayal, while painful, was part of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus endured betrayal so that we might receive salvation. This verse encourages us to see beyond betrayal to God’s greater purposes. Even when we are betrayed, the Lord can turn it for good, bringing about restoration, redemption, and the fulfillment of His perfect will.
28. Proverbs 17:9
“He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.”
This verse contrasts forgiveness with betrayal. Covering a transgression in love strengthens relationships, while repeating or exposing it destroys trust and friendship. Betrayal often comes through gossip, slander, or the refusal to forgive. For believers, this passage teaches us to reflect God’s character by choosing love and discretion over disloyalty. True friendship and fellowship thrive on grace, while betrayal thrives on exposing faults. It challenges us to be peacemakers who guard unity rather than sow division. In choosing to love and forgive, we mirror the heart of Christ, who covers our sins with His mercy.
29. Psalm 27:10
“When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.”
Even the closest human bonds, like those of parents, can be broken through betrayal or abandonment. Yet, this verse provides assurance that God’s love surpasses the failures of even family. The psalmist declares that when forsaken by those who should have been most loyal, the Lord Himself steps in as protector and sustainer. For Christians, this verse offers comfort when betrayal leaves us feeling utterly alone. God’s presence fills the void left by human failure, reminding us that His loyalty never wavers. His love is constant, healing the wounds of betrayal and granting us unshakable security.
30. Matthew 26:21
“And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.”
During the Last Supper, Jesus revealed that one of His disciples would betray Him. This verse underscores the shocking reality that betrayal can come from those closest to us. It also shows Jesus’ awareness of the pain He would endure, yet He still chose to love and serve His disciples. For believers, this verse teaches us that betrayal, though painful, is not beyond God’s plan. It calls us to remain steadfast in love, even when wounded. Jesus’ example reminds us that God’s purposes are not hindered by betrayal but fulfilled through His sovereign will.
31. Genesis 37:28
“Then there passed by Midianites merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt.”
Joseph’s brothers betrayed him by selling him into slavery for twenty pieces of silver. This act of treachery set in motion years of hardship but ultimately fulfilled God’s plan to save many lives. This verse reminds us that betrayal often stems from jealousy or hatred, but God can turn it for good. For believers, Joseph’s story is a powerful example of forgiveness and faith. Even when betrayed by family, he trusted God and later reconciled with his brothers. It teaches us that betrayal cannot stop God’s purposes and that forgiveness paves the way for healing.
32. Mark 13:12
“Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.”
Jesus warns that betrayal will escalate in times of persecution, even dividing families. This verse emphasizes the cost of following Christ, where loyalty to Him may provoke betrayal from loved ones. It underscores the painful reality that human ties may falter, but faith in Christ must remain firm. For believers, it calls us to prepare our hearts for opposition, knowing that our eternal reward far outweighs temporary suffering. This verse reassures us that though betrayal may separate us from family or friends, nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
33. Psalm 31:11-12
“I was a reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours, and a fear to mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me. I am forgotten as a dead man out of mind: I am like a broken vessel.”
David describes the deep loneliness that betrayal brings—abandoned by acquaintances and shunned by neighbors. The imagery of being forgotten “as a dead man” captures the despair of rejection. This verse resonates with those who feel discarded because of betrayal. For Christians, it reminds us that even in such isolation, God never forgets His people. He restores broken vessels and gives new purpose to lives shattered by betrayal. It encourages us to trust that God sees our pain and will lift us from despair into renewed hope and strength.
34. John 16:2
“They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.”
Jesus warned His disciples that betrayal would even come from religious communities. Those who opposed them would think they were serving God by persecuting them. This verse highlights how betrayal is sometimes justified by misguided zeal. For believers, it is a reminder that loyalty to Christ will sometimes mean rejection by institutions or leaders who claim to act in God’s name. Yet, it also assures us that God sees the truth. When betrayal comes cloaked in religion, we must cling to Christ, who endured the same, and find strength in His unchanging truth and love.
35. Romans 3:23-24
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.”
This verse reminds us that all humanity is guilty of sin—including betrayal. Each of us has, in some way, betrayed God through disobedience. Yet, the passage does not leave us in despair. It points us to the grace of God, who offers redemption through Christ. For believers, this verse reframes betrayal not only as something we endure but as something we ourselves have committed against God. The good news is that His grace is greater than our sin. Through Christ, we are forgiven, restored, and empowered to forgive those who betray us.
Conclusion
Betrayal is one of life’s most painful wounds, but Scripture offers both honesty about its reality and hope for healing. From Joseph’s betrayal by his brothers, to David’s laments, to Judas’ kiss, the Bible does not shy away from showing us the deep scars left by treachery. Yet, it also points us to God’s justice, His faithfulness, and His redeeming power.
These 35 verses reveal that betrayal is not the end of the story. God sees every act of treachery, and He promises that those who betray will face His judgment. More importantly, He offers healing to those who have been betrayed. He draws near to the brokenhearted, binds up their wounds, and assures them that His love never fails.
We also see that God often uses betrayal to accomplish His purposes. Joseph’s betrayal led to the saving of many lives. Jesus’ betrayal led to the cross, which brought salvation to the world. This does not minimize the pain, but it magnifies God’s ability to redeem even the darkest moments. For believers, this is a powerful encouragement to trust God when betrayal strikes, knowing that He can bring beauty from ashes.
These verses also remind us of our own need for grace. While we may have been betrayed by others, we too have betrayed God through sin. Yet, His mercy covers us, offering forgiveness and restoration through Christ. This truth humbles us and equips us to forgive others, just as we have been forgiven.
Betrayal hurts, but it does not have the final word. God’s love, justice, and faithfulness do. As we reflect on these Scriptures, may we find comfort in His presence, courage to endure, and grace to forgive. And above all, may we place our ultimate trust not in man but in the Lord, who will never betray us.
