New Testament
Matthew 26:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then Judas, the one who would betray him, asked, "Rabbi, it isn't me, is it?" Jesus replied, "You said it yourself."
Compare translations
Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.
What Matthew 26:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' twelve disciples, questions Jesus about his loyalty, asking if he is the one who will betray him. This moment is significant because it highlights Judas's inner conflict and the gravity of his impending betrayal. Jesus responds with a simple affirmation, indicating that Judas himself has acknowledged his role in the betrayal. This exchange reveals the tension and foreboding atmosphere during the Last Supper, where Jesus is aware of the betrayal that is about to unfold. It also emphasizes the theme of free will, as Judas chooses to betray Jesus despite being in close fellowship with him. The interaction serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the potential for betrayal even among friends. Ultimately, this moment foreshadows the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, illustrating the fulfillment of prophecy and the depth of Jesus' understanding of human nature.
How to apply Matthew 26:25 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own loyalties and the choices we make in relationships. It serves as a reminder to be aware of our actions and their potential impact on others. We should strive for honesty and integrity in our interactions, avoiding betrayal in any form.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Last Supper (Matthew 26:17–30)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 26:25
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 26:25
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 26:25 mean?
Matthew 26:25 captures the moment when Judas Iscariot questions Jesus about his loyalty, revealing his inner turmoil about betraying Him. Jesus' response indicates that Judas is aware of his impending betrayal, highlighting themes of trust and betrayal among friends.
What does Jesus mean by 'You said it yourself'?
When Jesus replies 'You said it yourself,' He acknowledges Judas's question while confirming that Judas knows he is the betrayer. This response underscores the tension of the moment and Judas's complicity in the betrayal.
How does Matthew 26:25 relate to the theme of free will?
Matthew 26:25 illustrates the theme of free will by showing that Judas, despite being a close disciple of Jesus, chooses to betray Him. This choice highlights the complexities of human relationships and the potential for betrayal.
What can we learn from Matthew 26:25 about loyalty?
Matthew 26:25 teaches us to reflect on our loyalties and the choices we make in relationships. It serves as a reminder to act with honesty and integrity, avoiding betrayal and being mindful of our impact on others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.