Matthew 27:3 describes Judas Iscariot's reaction to the condemnation of Jesus, whom he had betrayed. Let's break it down:
"Then Judas, who betrayed him...": This clearly identifies Judas as the individual responsible for Jesus' arrest, highlighting the weight of his action. The use of the phrase "who betrayed him" emphasizes the perfidy of his deed.
"...when he saw that Jesus was condemned...": This is the turning point. Judas realized the full consequences of his actions. He saw that Jesus was not merely arrested, but had been officially sentenced to death.
"...felt remorse...": The Greek word used here is "metameletheis" (μεταμεληθεὶς), which is often translated as "felt regret," "repented," or "felt remorse." It implies a feeling of deep sorrow and regret over his actions. However, crucially, it doesn't necessarily imply true repentance or a change of heart towards God. It primarily expresses sorrow for the consequences, not necessarily for offending God.
"...and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders...": This demonstrates Judas's attempt to undo his betrayal, at least in a practical sense. He tries to return the money, acknowledging that it was obtained through a wrongful act. This action suggests a level of guilt and desperation. It shows that he recognizes the evil of his betrayal.
In Summary:
This verse paints a picture of Judas experiencing profound regret and remorse after witnessing Jesus' condemnation. He attempts to rectify his betrayal by returning the money. However, it's important to note that the text describes remorse, which differs from true repentance, which involves a turning away from sin and seeking forgiveness from God. This act of returning the money highlights Judas's internal turmoil and awareness of the gravity of his actions, setting the stage for the tragic events that follow.
Matthew 27:3 describes Judas Iscariot's reaction to the condemnation of Jesus, whom he had betrayed. Let's break it down:
"Then Judas, who betrayed him...": This clearly identifies Judas as the individual responsible for Jesus' arrest, highlighting the weight of his action. The use of the phrase "who betrayed him" emphasizes the perfidy of his deed.
"...when he saw that Jesus was condemned...": This is the turning point. Judas realized the full consequences of his actions. He saw that Jesus was not merely arrested, but had been officially sentenced to death.
"...felt remorse...": The Greek word used here is "metameletheis" (μεταμεληθεὶς), which is often translated as "felt regret," "repented," or "felt remorse." It implies a feeling of deep sorrow and regret over his actions. However, crucially, it doesn't necessarily imply true repentance or a change of heart towards God. It primarily expresses sorrow for the consequences, not necessarily for offending God.
"...and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders...": This demonstrates Judas's attempt to undo his betrayal, at least in a practical sense. He tries to return the money, acknowledging that it was obtained through a wrongful act. This action suggests a level of guilt and desperation. It shows that he recognizes the evil of his betrayal.
In Summary:
This verse paints a picture of Judas experiencing profound regret and remorse after witnessing Jesus' condemnation. He attempts to rectify his betrayal by returning the money. However, it's important to note that the text describes remorse, which differs from true repentance, which involves a turning away from sin and seeking forgiveness from God. This act of returning the money highlights Judas's internal turmoil and awareness of the gravity of his actions, setting the stage for the tragic events that follow.