Matthew 26:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 26:24
24 The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.
Chapter Context
Matthew 26 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, hope, grace. 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 demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 26:24
24 The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.
Analysis
The Son of man goeth as it is written of him (ὁ μὲν υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου ὑπάγει καθὼς γέγραπται περὶ αὐτοῦ, ho men hyios tou anthrōpou hypagei kathōs gegraptai peri autou)—Divine sovereignty and human responsibility coexist: Jesus's death fulfills Scripture (Isaiah 53, Psalm 22, Zechariah 13:7), yet Judas bears full moral culpability. Woe (οὐαί, ouai) pronounces covenant curse.
Good for that man if he had not been born—This terrifying statement reveals the eternal weight of betraying the Son of God. Judas's temporal gain (30 pieces of silver) cost him eternal loss. The hypothetical non-existence would be preferable to the conscious torment awaiting covenant betrayers (Hebrews 10:29).
Historical Context
Jesus's statement reflects the Jewish theological tension between divine determinism and human free will. The Passover Haggadah itself rehearsed God's sovereign deliverance while calling for human response. First-century Judaism understood that God's foreknowledge didn't eliminate human responsibility—both truths stand.
Reflection
- How can God's sovereign plan for Christ's death coexist with Judas's genuine moral guilt for betrayal?
- What does this 'woe' statement teach about the eternal consequences of rejecting Christ?
Cross-References
- Good: Mark 14:21
- Parallel theme: Matthew 18:7, 26:54, 26:56, Daniel 9:26, Mark 9:12, Luke 22:22