Why Did Judas Betray Jesus? Matthew 26:14-16

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

14 Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests 15 and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.

The previous story of Jesus' rebuking the disciples for thinking the woman's gift of expensive perfume was a waste may have finally triggered Judas to begin his betrayal. Luke 22:3 tells us, "Satan entered Judas called Iscariot, one of the twelve" 

"His worldly hopes fell altogether at the thought of “burial.” It is a striking juxtaposition: as Mary’s is the highest deed of loving and clear-sighted faith, Judas’ is the darkest act of treacherous and misguided hate." (Cambridge Bible)

It is interesting that 30 pieces of silver was not a very expensive amount of money.  Some point out that it was the cost of a slave in Exodus 21:32.  What is clear is it took very little for Judas' betray his friend Jesus.  Though it was foretold that someone like Judas would betray Jesus for this sum. it still seems like it to was too easy for him.  

"That he was one of the twelve, the chosen companions of Christ, emphasizes his crime, makes it more amazing and more heinous. To witness the daily life of Christ, to behold his miracles of mercy, to listen to his heavenly teaching, to hear his stern denunciations of such sins as covetousness and hypocrisy, and in spite of all to bargain with his bitterest enemies for his betrayal, reveals a depth of perverse wickedness which is simply appalling." (Pulpit Commentary)

Why do you think it was so easy for Judas to betray Jesus?  What did the price symbolize? What other motivation might he have had?  What role did Satan play in his betrayal?  Should he still be responsible for his actions?  Do you ever "sell out" Jesus pursuing self interest or gain over your commitment to him? What ultimate price did Judas pay for selling out the Son of God?



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