Matthew 27:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 27:4
4 Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.
Chapter Context
Matthew 27 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, grace, worship. 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 21-66: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 27:4
4 Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.
Analysis
I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood (ἥμαρτον παραδοὺς αἷμα ἀθῷον)—Judas's confession uses hēmarton ("I sinned"), the aorist tense indicating a completed, irreversible act. His recognition of Christ as haima athōon ("innocent blood") unwittingly fulfills Isaiah 53:9 ("he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth"). Yet this is remorse, not repentance—Judas acknowledges guilt but seeks relief from consequences rather than restoration with God.
What is that to us? see thou to that (τί πρὸς ἡμᾶς; σὺ ὄψῃ)—The chief priests' callous dismissal reveals the hardness that religious externalism produces. The phrase sy opsē ("you will see to it") throws responsibility back on Judas with brutal indifference. They paid thirty pieces of silver (the price of a slave, Exodus 21:32) to secure his betrayal, but now disown any moral culpability. This exchange exposes the difference between worldly sorrow that leads to death (2 Corinthians 7:10) and godly grief that produces repentance.
Historical Context
This occurred early Friday morning after the illegal night trial before Caiaphas (circa 30 AD). Judas's return to the temple treasury occurred while Jesus stood before Pilate. The thirty pieces of silver were temple shekels, making the priests' acceptance of "blood money" a profound violation of Deuteronomy 23:18. Matthew alone records Judas's fate, emphasizing the theological consequence of betraying the Messiah.
Reflection
- What is the difference between Judas's remorse and Peter's repentance, and where do you see each pattern in your own life?
- How does the priests' refusal of responsibility challenge us about complicity in injustice we set in motion but distance ourselves from?
Word Studies
- Blood: αἷμα (Haima) G129 - Blood
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Timothy 4:2