Commentary on Matthew 26:15

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."

Introduction

The event recorded in Matthew 26:15 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Jesus' passion. This verse highlights the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot, leading to profound theological implications and reflections on human morality, the nature of betrayal, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.

Contextual Background

In the broader context of Matthew 26, this event occurs just before the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, times of profound spiritual significance for the Jewish people. The chief priests and elders are plotting to arrest Jesus covertly rather than during the feast for fear of causing an uproar among the people (Matthew 26:5). Judas, one of the twelve apostles, seeks out the religious leaders, indicating a premeditated decision to betray the Lord.

Analysis of the Verse

1. The Proposal of Betrayal: Judas approaches the chief priests with a proposal to deliver Jesus to them, asking, "What will ye give me?" This transactional aspect highlights the premeditated nature of his betrayal. It reflects a grievous moral failure, reminiscent of the prophet Micah's lament that there are those who will find a price for their loyalty and faithfulness.

• Matthew Henry: emphasizes Judas’s willingness to sell his Master for earthly gain, contrasting with the value of Jesus’ worth, which cannot be measured in silver.
• Albert Barnes: comments that Judas’ actions portrayed a shocking disregard for the sacredness of Jesus’ life and mission.
• Adam Clarke: notes that the thirty pieces of silver were not just any amount but were the prophetic fulfillment of Zechariah 11:12-13, which lends to the narrative deep layers of prophetic significance.

2. The Covenant: The term "covenanted" implies a formal agreement, suggesting that there was intent and deliberation behind Judas’ actions. This tragic alliance between Judas and the religious leaders delineates a betrayal that is both spiritual and personal. Such betrayal can lead to discussions of the heart's orientation away from God and the perils of greed.

• Matthew Henry: notes the irony that Judas, who partook of Jesus’ ministry and enjoyed the privileges of discipleship, would ultimately be the one to betray Him.
• Albert Barnes: highlights the gravity of making a covenant with evil, emphasizing how Judas’ actions lead to devastating consequences not just for himself but for all involved.

3. The Price of Betrayal: The thirty pieces of silver are significant. This sum was the price of a slave as seen in Exodus 21:32, emphasizing the devaluation of Jesus in Judas’ eyes. To betray the Son of God for such a price reflects a profound spiritual blindness.

• Adam Clarke: interprets this choice as indicative of Judas' complete moral depravity, symbolizing how one can fall from the heights of grace to the depths of treachery.
• Matthew Henry: further elaborates that this moment serves as a warning against the seductions of wealth and power that can lead one astray from righteousness.

Theological Implications

The betrayal of Judas serves as a critical moment that propels the narrative towards the crucifixion, establishing the reality of human sinfulness and the necessity of atonement. Theologically, it invites reflection on several points:

• Human Agency vs. Divine Sovereignty: Judas’ free will choice to betray Jesus underscores the tension between human actions and God's sovereign purpose.
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: The detailed account of Judas’ betrayal aligns with prophetic declarations, showcasing God’s foreknowledge and the fulfillment of His plan for redemption.

Conclusion

Matthew 26:15 calls believers to examine the depths of their own hearts concerning loyalty, temptation, and the allure of material gain. As pastoral leaders, students, and scholars reflect upon this verse, it serves not only as a historical account but also as a profound reminder of the cost of discipleship and the call to fidelity to Christ.