“Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them.” — Matthew 26:14 KJV
Background and Biography
Judas Iscariot was the son of Simon Iscariot, originating from Kerioth, a town in Judea (John 6:71; 17:12). Among the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, Judas occupied a position of trust and responsibility, serving as the keeper of the disciples’ money bag (John 12:6). His name, Iscariot, suggests either a geographical origin or a designation linked to a group of assassins, the Sicarii, though this remains debated among scholars.
As one of the twelve, Judas witnessed firsthand the ministry of Jesus: His miracles, teachings, and divine authority. He was present for many pivotal moments in the earthly ministry of Christ, including the feeding of the five thousand, the raising of Lazarus, and the triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Judas’ inclusion among the apostles demonstrates that even those chosen for close fellowship with Christ were not immune to deception, spiritual blindness, and the influence of evil.
The Role of Judas Iscariot
Judas’ apostolic role included active participation in Jesus’ ministry, yet he harbored a secret predisposition toward greed and betrayal. John 12:6 indicates he “carried the bag” and “was a thief,” taking from the communal funds for his own purposes. This misuse of responsibility reflects a deeper moral and spiritual corruption.
Prophetically, Judas’ role was foreordained in Scripture. Jesus Himself alluded to Judas’ betrayal during the Last Supper: “The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed!” (Matthew 26:24). Judas’ actions fulfilled Old Testament prophecy, including Psalm 41:9 and Zechariah 11:12–13, highlighting that his betrayal was a predetermined element of God’s redemptive plan.
The Betrayal of Jesus
Judas Iscariot is most notorious for his betrayal of Christ for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15). Under the influence of Satan (Luke 22:3), he conspired with the chief priests and elders to arrest Jesus privately, circumventing the crowds and public outrage. The act of betrayal culminated in Jesus’ arrest in Gethsemane, where Judas identified Him with a kiss—a prearranged signal to the soldiers (Matthew 26:47–50).
This moment reveals the profound tragedy of Judas’ life: a man called to intimate fellowship with the Messiah, yet choosing worldly gain over spiritual loyalty. His betrayal was not only a personal moral failure but also a fulfillment of divine prophecy, underscoring the sovereignty of God even over human treachery.
The End of Judas
Following the betrayal, Judas experienced immediate remorse. Matthew 27:3–5 records his attempt to return the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests, confessing his sin: “I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood.” Yet, he lacked true repentance and sought escape through self-destruction, hanging himself in despair. Acts 1:16–20 further recounts his tragic demise, referring to Judas as a man whose apostolic office ended in death and judgment, a warning of the peril of turning from God despite intimate knowledge of His works.
Conclusion
Judas Iscariot serves as both a warning and a prophetic symbol. His life illustrates the danger of covetousness, deceit, and rejection of Christ, even for those closest to Him. Judas’ betrayal fulfilled God’s plan for salvation, yet it came at the cost of eternal ruin for himself. Believers today are called to discern their hearts, guard against spiritual deception, and remain faithful to Christ, for intimacy with the Lord demands obedience, not mere association.
Judas’ legacy is a solemn reminder: divine purpose can be fulfilled even through human treachery, but personal rejection of God leads to eternal consequence.