Judas Iscariot is one of the most recognized names in the Bible—often remembered as the disciple who betrayed Jesus. But who was he, really? Why was he chosen as one of the Twelve Apostles? And what led him to such a tragic end?
The story of Judas Iscariot is not just about betrayal. It reveals the complexity of the human heart. Judas walked with Jesus, witnessed miracles, and heard His teachings. Yet, he chose to turn away.
This blog unpacks Judas’s role, using clear Bible verses and honest exploration to understand his character—not to judge, but to learn what Scripture truly says.
What Does the Bible Say About Judas Iscariot?
Judas Iscariot is first mentioned in the lists of Jesus’s twelve disciples (Matthew 10:4, Mark 3:19, Luke 6:16). He was given the role of treasurer and carried the group’s money (John 12:6). Scripture shows he was trusted, even though Jesus knew he would eventually betray Him (John 6:70–71).
Judas’s name is always followed by the phrase “who betrayed Him,” highlighting his destiny in the Gospel narrative. Yet, he participated in everything the other disciples did—he was not a distant outsider.
His betrayal is mentioned in all four Gospels, and his story continues briefly in Acts 1:18–20, where his death is recounted by Peter.
Why Did Judas Iscariot Betray Jesus?
The Bible gives several reasons—none of which fully explain his heart.
In Matthew 26:14–16, Judas goes to the chief priests and asks, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?” They offer thirty silver coins.
John 12:4–6 reveals Judas’s love for money. When Mary anoints Jesus’s feet with expensive perfume, Judas complains about the waste. But Scripture says he didn’t care for the poor—he was a thief and often stole from the money bag.
Some scholars think Judas expected Jesus to be a political Messiah and grew disillusioned. But the Bible doesn’t say this directly.
How Did Judas Iscariot Betray Jesus?
Judas’s betrayal happens during the Passover meal, now known as the Last Supper.
In Matthew 26:20–25, Jesus says, “One of you will betray me.” The disciples are shocked. Judas even asks, “Surely not I, Rabbi?” Jesus answers, “You have said so.”
Later that night, in Gethsemane, Judas arrives with soldiers. He signals Jesus’s identity with a kiss (Matthew 26:48–50). Jesus calls him “Friend” even in that moment, saying, “Do what you came for.”
This simple act—the kiss—marked Jesus for arrest, leading to the crucifixion.
What Happened to Judas Iscariot After the Betrayal?
After Jesus was condemned, Judas felt regret. He returned the silver and said, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood” (Matthew 27:3–4). But the priests dismissed him.
Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Matthew 27:5 says he hanged himself.
Acts 1:18 adds another detail—that Judas’s body fell and burst open. Some believe this reflects what happened after the hanging.
The silver was used to buy the potter’s field, now called “Field of Blood” (Matthew 27:7–8).
Was Judas Iscariot’s Betrayal Predicted in Scripture?
Yes, several verses point to it.
Jesus Himself says in John 13:18, “He who shared my bread has lifted up his heel against me,” referring to Psalm 41:9.
Zechariah 11:12–13 speaks of thirty silver coins and a potter’s field—details echoed in Judas’s story.
In John 17:12, Jesus calls him “the son of perdition,” saying, “none has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled.”
These verses suggest his actions were part of God’s larger plan, though still carried out by his own choice.
Did Judas Iscariot Regret Betraying Jesus?
Yes. His regret is clear in Matthew 27:3. He returns the money and confesses his sin.
But regret is not the same as repentance.
Instead of seeking forgiveness, Judas chooses to end his life. The Bible doesn’t describe him praying or turning back to Jesus.
His sorrow was deep, but it ended in silence.
Was Judas Iscariot Forgiven or Condemned?
The Bible does not say Judas was forgiven. Jesus said, “It would be better for that man if he had not been born” (Mark 14:21).
This is a heavy statement. It suggests a deep tragedy in Judas’s decision. Still, the Bible does not clearly declare his eternal fate.
Only God knows the final judgment. What we see in Scripture is sorrow, isolation, and a life cut short.
What Can We Understand From the Life of Judas Iscariot?
Judas Iscariot is not just a villain in a story. He was a real person who walked with Jesus, struggled with sin, and made choices that changed history.
His life shows how someone can be close to God in appearance but still drift far in heart.
There is no clear “lesson” stated in the Bible. But his story invites reflection. It shows the weight of choice, the pull of temptation, and the sadness of lost trust.
Where Else Is Judas Iscariot Mentioned in the Bible?
- Matthew 10:4, Mark 3:19, Luke 6:16: Named among the disciples
- John 6:70–71: Jesus calls him “a devil”
- John 12:4–6: Criticizes Mary for wasting perfume
- Matthew 26–27, Mark 14, Luke 22, John 13–18: Betrayal and death
- Acts 1:18–20: Peter speaks of Judas’s fall and replacement
What Lessons Do People Draw from Judas Iscariot’s Life?
While the Bible doesn’t teach a moral from Judas’s story, many readers see:
- The danger of hidden sin
- The cost of betrayal
- The importance of true repentance
- The heartbreak of turning from grace
His story remains a mystery—part warning, part sorrow, and entirely human.
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