Here’s what Jesus said about Judas, along with relevant Bible verses in bold and three main takeaways:
Jesus said, “The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.” (Matthew 26:24)
He also said, “I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill this passage of Scripture: ‘He who shared my bread has turned against me.'” (John 13:18, referring to Psalm 41:9)
And, “You are not all clean.” (John 13:11) – The Gospel writer explains, “For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.”
Three main takeaways:
- Jesus knew that Judas would betray him, as it was prophesied in Scripture. However, he still expressed sorrow and condemnation for Judas’ actions, saying it would have been better for him not to have been born.
- Jesus emphasized that Judas’ betrayal was a fulfillment of prophecy, quoting from Psalm 41:9 about being betrayed by a close friend.
- Jesus acknowledged that not all of his disciples were “clean” or faithful, referring specifically to Judas’ impending betrayal.
Overall, Jesus recognized Judas’ role in his betrayal and ultimate crucifixion, but he also lamented the tragic choice Judas made to betray him, and he highlighted the gravity of Judas’ actions by saying it would have been better for him not to have been born.
