One of the most tragic and significant incidents in the New Testament is Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus. In addition to initiating Christ’s arrest, prosecution, and execution, it also serves as a potent warning against the perils of unrepentant sin, greed, and dishonesty. The Bible describes Judas’ deeds, his reasons, and the fallout from his treachery in great detail. These bible verses about Judas betraying Jesus serve as a reminder of the spiritual conflict between loyalty and temptation and assist us in considering the extent of Jesus’ love, even for those who would turn against Him.
Jesus Himself selected Judas to be one of the twelve disciples. He opted to betray the Son of God for thirty pieces of silver despite having walked with the Lord, seen innumerable miracles, and heard all of the teachings. This betrayal demonstrates that until the heart is genuinely changed, being close to Jesus does not equate to fidelity. The Bible verses about Judas betraying Jesus provides a sobering look at how even the most wealthy people can go down a terrible path due to unbridled cravings.
Examining Bible passages concerning Judas’ treachery reveals the ancient Scriptures’ prophecies and demonstrates how God’s redemptive purpose was always in charge, even during the height of human treachery. The fact that Jesus washed Judas’ feet at the Last Supper and spoke to him as “friend” despite his treachery further demonstrates His foresight and grace in these words. Judas’ betrayal and Jesus’ love stand in stark and poignant contrast.
In addition to assisting us in comprehending the historical circumstances that led to the crucifixion, studying these passages challenges us to consider our own hearts. Do we ever sacrifice our loyalty to Jesus for short-term benefit, like Judas did? These words in the Bible are both a caution and an exhortation to reject treachery and to embrace unwavering loyalty to the One who gave His life for us.
30 Powerful Bible Verses About Judas Betraying Jesus in 2025
1. Matthew 26:14-16
“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 marks the beginning of Judas’ betrayal. He takes the initiative to betray Jesus, showing that the betrayal was premeditated and motivated by greed. The amount—thirty pieces of silver—fulfilled a prophecy from Zechariah and highlights how cheaply Judas valued his Master.
2. Luke 22:3-4
“Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve. And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them.”
This verse emphasizes the spiritual dimension of the betrayal—Satan’s direct influence. Judas’ willingness to be used reveals a heart already open to evil. It also shows that betrayal was not just a human act but part of a larger spiritual conflict.
3. John 13:2
“And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him.”
Even before Judas leaves the Last Supper, the decision has already formed in his heart. The verse reminds us that betrayal often begins internally, long before the act is visible. It also reveals Satan’s deceptive influence over Judas’ thoughts.
4. Matthew 26:21
“And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.”
Jesus knew from the beginning who would betray Him. This shows His omniscience and also highlights the sadness and intimacy of the betrayal—it came from within His circle of trusted friends.
5. Mark 14:10-11
“And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them. And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money.”
The joy of the priests upon hearing Judas’ offer shows the extent of their desire to eliminate Jesus. Judas’ betrayal gave them the opportunity they needed to arrest Him in secret, away from the crowds.
6. John 12:4-6
“Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, which should betray him… ‘Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?’ This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief…”
This passage reveals Judas’ character. Though he masked his greed with concern for the poor, John exposes his true intentions. This shows that his betrayal was consistent with his nature—he was already stealing from the group’s funds.
7. Luke 22:6
“And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the absence of the multitude.”
Judas agreed to the betrayal and then actively looked for the right moment. His betrayal was cold, calculated, and strategic—he didn’t want it to cause a public uproar.
8. Matthew 26:23
“And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me.”
This statement from Jesus points out the close bond between Him and His betrayer. Sharing a meal was a sign of friendship and trust, making the betrayal even more painful.
9. 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 was deeply grieved, not just because of what was to come, but because of the heartbreak of betrayal by one of His own. His emotional response shows His humanity.
10. 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.”
This prophetic verse from the Old Testament is fulfilled in Judas’ betrayal. It emphasizes the pain of betrayal from someone close and trusted.
11. Matthew 26:25
“Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.”
Judas’ question is laced with hypocrisy, as he had already arranged the betrayal. Jesus’ response confirms that He knows exactly who will betray Him, yet He does not expose Judas publicly, giving him a chance for repentance.
12. 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.”
The kiss, usually a sign of affection, became a sign of betrayal. Judas used a false gesture of love to deliver Jesus to His enemies, intensifying the cruelty of his actions.
13. Luke 22:47-48
“And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas… drew near unto Jesus to kiss him. But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?”
Jesus directly confronts Judas, highlighting the irony and pain of being betrayed with a symbol of friendship. It shows Jesus’ awareness and restraint even in that intense moment.
14. John 18:2
“And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples.”
Judas used his knowledge of Jesus’ habits to carry out the betrayal. This reveals how deep his betrayal went—he used intimacy to exploit Jesus’ trust.
15. John 18:3
“Judas then, having received a band of men and officers… cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons.”
Judas didn’t come alone—he brought a crowd to arrest Jesus. This shows his total commitment to betrayal and how he had become an active agent of Jesus’ enemies.
16. Matthew 27:3
“Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself…”
This verse shows Judas’ regret but not true repentance. He felt sorrow for the consequences of his actions but did not turn to Jesus for forgiveness.
17. Matthew 27:4
“Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood…”
Even Judas acknowledged Jesus’ innocence. His confession was a tragic realization of the gravity of his betrayal, yet it lacked the faith and repentance necessary for redemption.
18. Matthew 27:5
“And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.”
Judas’ remorse drove him to despair. This tragic end reveals the destructive power of sin and guilt when not brought to God in repentance.
19. Acts 1:16
“Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled… concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.”
Peter declares that Judas’ betrayal fulfilled Scripture. This reassures believers that even terrible acts can serve a purpose in God’s redemptive plan.
20. Acts 1:18
“Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder…”
This verse recounts Judas’ death in graphic detail, emphasizing the tragic and violent end of a man who once walked with Jesus but chose betrayal.
21. Zechariah 11:12
“And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price… So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver.”
This Old Testament prophecy was fulfilled when Judas was paid the exact amount for betraying Jesus. It reveals God’s sovereignty and foreknowledge.
22. Zechariah 11:13
“And the Lord said unto me, Cast it unto the potter…”
This part of the prophecy speaks of the money being returned and used to buy a potter’s field—another fulfillment seen in Judas’ story.
23. John 6:70
“Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?”
Jesus clearly knew from the start that Judas would betray Him. This shows that Judas’ actions did not catch Him by surprise.
24. John 17:12
“…and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.”
Jesus refers to Judas as “the son of perdition,” signifying his destined role in fulfilling Scripture. It also shows the seriousness of Judas’ choice.
25. Mark 14:18
“And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me.”
Sharing a meal in Jewish culture implied trust and brotherhood. This makes Judas’ betrayal even more heartbreaking and symbolic.
26. Luke 22:21
“But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table.”
Jesus again highlights the nearness and intimacy of the one who would betray Him. It shows that betrayal can come from those closest to us.
27. Luke 6:16
“And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor.”
Even when naming the disciples, the Bible distinguishes Judas as “the traitor.” His betrayal forever marked his identity in Scripture.
28. Matthew 10:4
“Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.”
This reiteration reminds readers early in the Gospel that Judas’ story is central to understanding the events of Jesus’ final days.
29. John 13:27
“And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.”
Jesus’ statement signals Judas to carry out the betrayal, acknowledging the moment had come. Satan’s full possession reveals the spiritual tragedy of Judas’ hardened heart.
30. Matthew 26:50
“And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.”
Jesus still called Judas “Friend” even at the moment of betrayal. This shows His consistent grace and love, and highlights the stark contrast between divine mercy and human treachery.
Conclusion
One of the most tragic and heartbreaking stories in the Bible is Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus. The sorrowful journey of a man who formerly walked closely with Christ but decided to sell his loyalty for only thirty pieces of silver is shown in the verses examined. It was a betrayal of heavenly love and grace, not merely of friendship. This treachery confirmed that God’s sovereign plan was being carried out even in the darkest times, fulfilling ancient predictions.
Scriptures like this serve as a reminder that even people in our trusted circle might betray us. Judas’ deeds demonstrate to us that being close to Jesus does not equate to being faithful to Him. A heart that is not given over to God is susceptible to deception, temptation, and eventual ruin. Judas had the chance to change his ways and repent, but he preferred despair to forgiveness. His demise serves as a warning about the perils of unrepented sin and the anguish of turning away from grace.
But in the midst of this betrayal, we also witness Jesus’ unflinching love and poise. Even after he betrayed Judas, he spoke to him as a “friend” rather than an angry person. This illustrates Christ’s empathy and readiness to extend mercy right up until the very end. The tale of Judas challenges us to consider our own hearts, to be on the lookout for the deception of the enemy, and to always choose repentance over regret. It’s an exhortation to be steadfast despite the whispers of temptation.
