The foretelling of Jesus' betrayal is a significant event in the New Testament, highlighting the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the passion of Christ. This event is recorded in all four Gospels, emphasizing its importance in the narrative of Jesus' final days.

Biblical Accounts

1. Matthew 26:20-25 : During the Last Supper, Jesus reveals the impending betrayal by one of His disciples. As they were eating, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, one of you will betray Me." The disciples were deeply distressed and began to ask Him one after another, "Surely not I, Lord?" Jesus answered, "The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with Me will betray Me. The Son of Man will go just as it is written about Him. But woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would be better for him if he had not been born." Then Judas, who would betray Him, said, "Surely not I, Rabbi?" Jesus answered, "You have said it yourself."

2. Mark 14:17-21 : In Mark's account, Jesus also predicts His betrayal during the Passover meal. He states, "Truly I tell you, one of you who is eating with Me will betray Me." The disciples are troubled and question Him. Jesus indicates that it is one of the Twelve, "one who is dipping bread into the bowl with Me." He reiterates the woe upon the betrayer, aligning with the divine plan foretold in Scripture.

3. Luke 22:21-23 : Luke provides a similar narrative, with Jesus declaring, "But look, the hand of My betrayer is with Mine on the table. Indeed, the Son of Man will go as it has been determined, but woe to that man who betrays Him." The disciples begin to question among themselves who might be the betrayer.

4. John 13:21-30 : John's Gospel offers a more detailed account, where Jesus, troubled in spirit, testifies, "Truly, truly, I tell you, one of you will betray Me." The disciples are perplexed, and Peter motions to John to ask Jesus who it is. Jesus responds, "It is the one to whom I give this morsel after I have dipped it." He gives the morsel to Judas Iscariot, and Satan enters into him. Jesus tells Judas, "What you are about to do, do quickly." The disciples do not understand the significance of this exchange at the time.

Theological Significance

The foretelling of Jesus' betrayal is a profound moment that underscores the omniscience of Christ and the fulfillment of prophecy. It reflects the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Jesus' awareness of His impending betrayal demonstrates His control over the events leading to His crucifixion, affirming His role as the willing sacrifice for humanity's sins.

The betrayal by Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, highlights the tragic reality of sin and the capacity for human treachery even among those closest to Jesus. It serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual battle and the need for vigilance and faithfulness in the Christian life.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

The betrayal of Jesus is foreshadowed in the Old Testament, particularly in Psalm 41:9 , "Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." This verse is seen as a prophetic reference to Judas' betrayal, illustrating the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout Scripture.

Implications for Believers

For believers, the foretelling of Jesus' betrayal is a call to examine one's own heart and commitment to Christ. It challenges Christians to remain steadfast in faith and to be aware of the subtle temptations that can lead to spiritual betrayal. The event also reassures believers of God's sovereign plan and the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death.