Matthew 26:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 26:15
15 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.
Chapter Context
Matthew 26 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, truth, hope. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-75: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 26:15
15 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.
Analysis
What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you?—Judas's transactional question reveals his mercenary heart. The Greek ti thelete moi dounai (τί θέλετέ μοι δοῦναι) means 'What are you willing to give me?' He negotiates Christ's price like a commodity. The verb paradoso (παραδώσω), 'I will deliver/betray,' is the same word Jesus used prophesying His being 'delivered up' (v. 2).
And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver—The triakonta arguria (τριάκοντα ἀργύρια) fulfills Zechariah 11:12-13, where God's prophet is valued at thirty shekels, the price of a gored slave (Exodus 21:32). This insultingly low sum—about four months' wages compared to Mary's year's wages—reveals Christ's 'worthlessness' to the religious establishment. Judas sells God incarnate for the price of a slave.
Historical Context
The thirty pieces of silver were likely Tyrian shekels, required for temple transactions. After Jesus's death, Judas will return this blood money to the priests (27:3-10), who use it to buy the potter's field for burying foreigners, precisely fulfilling Zechariah 11:13. God's sovereignty operates through human treachery.
Reflection
- How does Judas's valuation of Jesus at thirty silver pieces contrast with Mary's 'waste' of 300 denarii in worship?
- What 'price' have you placed on Christ—is He worth your costliest sacrifice or only your leftover convenience?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 21:32