Understanding Matthew 26:15
Bible Verse: "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." (Matthew 26:15)
Verse Meaning and Context
In Matthew 26:15, Judas Iscariot approaches the chief priests and offers to betray Jesus in exchange for money. This act is a significant moment in the narrative of Jesus' impending crucifixion. The verse highlights Judas' greed and betrayal, marking the fulfillment of prophetic writings regarding the Messiah's suffering.
Key Themes
- Betrayal: Judas’ act serves as one of the most profound examples of betrayal in scripture.
- Greed: The price paid for Jesus’ betrayal reflects Judas’ priorities and heart condition.
- Prophecy Fulfillment: This transaction aligns with prophecy regarding the Messiah’s rejection.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the gravity of Judas’ betrayal, contrasting the honor of Jesus’ mission with the betrayal from one of His own disciples. He notes that Judas was a follower who succumbed to temptation, focusing on the spiritual warnings that this event contains.
Albert Barnes: Barnes points out that the thirty pieces of silver were a meager amount, reflecting Judas' low valuation of Jesus. He discusses how this event serves as an indictment against him, illustrating the spiritual blindness that can lead to such actions.
Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the significance of the thirty pieces of silver, relating it to Old Testament references (Exodus 21:32), where it is indicated as the price for a slave. This choice of payment further illustrates Judas' treachery.
Bible Cross-References
Matthew 26:15 is interconnected with several other scriptures, showcasing the depth of its meaning and the complex web of biblical narrative. Below are some significant cross-references:
- Zechariah 11:12-13: Foretells the thirty pieces of silver offered for the betrayal of the shepherd.
- Psalm 41:9: Alludes to the betrayal of a friend, foreshadowing Judas' actions.
- Matthew 27:3-10: Describes Judas' remorse after the betrayal and the subsequent purchase of a field.
- Mark 14:10-11: Similarly discusses Judas' betrayal with the chief priests.
- Luke 22:3-6: Indicates the influence of Satan in Judas’ decision to betray Jesus.
- John 13:21-30: Reveals Jesus’ awareness of the impending betrayal during the Last Supper.
- Acts 1:16-19: Discusses the consequences of Judas' actions and refers back to the prophetic implications.
Thematic Connections
This verse serves as a critical point of connection between various themes in scripture:
- Judaism and Christianity: The betrayal is rooted in Jewish prophecy, which has significant implications for Christian theology.
- Free Will versus Divine Plan: The interplay between Judas’ free will and God's foreknowledge of events is a significant theological discussion.
Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing
When studying verses like Matthew 26:15, the use of cross-reference tools can deepen understanding:
- Bible Concordance: A comprehensive resource to find words and their locations throughout scripture.
- Cross-Reference Bible Study: Methods of connecting verses through thematic and contextual ties.
- Bible Reference Resources: Guides that assist in navigating scriptures and uncovering links between verses.
- Comprehensive Bible Cross-Reference Materials: Various writings that offer extensive backgrounds and analyses of scripture connections.
Conclusion: Interpreting the Connections
Matthew 26:15 not only serves as a narrative of betrayal but also opens the door to understanding deeper biblical themes and connections. By studying its context and cross-references, believers can gain insights into the nature of sin, in human relationships, and the divine plans that govern salvation history.
