John 12:4 – “But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected,”
Extended Explanation
This verse introduces a dramatic shift in the scene. Mary had just poured expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet as an act of worship (John 12:3), but now Judas Iscariot objects to her actions. His response stands in sharp contrast to Mary’s devotion.
John specifically identifies Judas as the one who would later betray Jesus. This tells us that his heart was already turning away from Jesus, even before his actual betrayal. While Mary was demonstrating her love and gratitude, Judas was focused on something else—money and self-interest.
Judas’ objection wasn’t just a casual remark. It revealed his true motives and character. While he appeared to care about financial matters, as we see in the next verse, his heart was corrupt. This moment marks an important turning point, showing how even someone who walked with Jesus and saw His miracles could still choose to reject Him.
Historical Context
Judas Iscariot was one of the twelve disciples, chosen by Jesus Himself (Luke 6:12-16). He had witnessed Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and compassion firsthand. Yet, despite being so close to Jesus, his heart was not truly devoted to Him.
At this time, Judas served as the group’s treasurer, handling their financial resources (John 12:6). His concern about the perfume being “wasted” on Jesus was not about generosity but about greed. He saw money as more valuable than worship.
The mention that Judas would betray Jesus is significant. By this point, religious leaders were already looking for a way to arrest Jesus (John 11:53, 57). Judas’ heart was moving toward aligning with them, setting the stage for his later betrayal (John 13:2, 27).
Theological Implications
This verse highlights several important spiritual truths:
- Outward Religion vs. True Devotion – Judas was part of Jesus’ inner circle, but his heart wasn’t truly with Him. This warns us that being around Jesus or involved in religious activities doesn’t guarantee genuine faith.
- Greed Corrupts the Heart – Judas’ concern for money reveals how greed can take hold and lead to sin. He was willing to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).
- God’s Sovereign Plan – Even though Judas’ actions were evil, they were part of God’s plan for salvation. Jesus’ betrayal and crucifixion were foretold in Scripture (Psalm 41:9, Zechariah 11:12-13).
- A Warning Against Hypocrisy – Judas appeared to be a follower of Jesus, but his true nature was exposed. This reminds us that God sees the heart, even if someone outwardly looks faithful.
Literary Analysis
John’s Gospel often highlights contrasts to reveal deeper spiritual truths. Here, the contrast between Mary and Judas is striking:
- Mary gives extravagantly – demonstrating love and gratitude.
- Judas complains selfishly – revealing greed and hypocrisy.
John also adds a note that Judas “was later to betray him.” This foreshadowing helps readers understand that Judas’ objection wasn’t just about money—it was part of his deeper rebellion against Jesus.
This verse is also an example of dramatic irony. The reader knows Judas’ true motives, but in the moment, the other disciples may not have fully realized what was happening in his heart. This builds tension leading up to his eventual betrayal.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 26:14-16 – Judas agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.
- John 12:6 – Judas’ true motives are revealed—he was a thief.
- John 13:2, 27 – Satan enters Judas, leading him to betray Jesus.
- Psalm 41:9 – A prophecy about a close friend betraying the Messiah.
- Zechariah 11:12-13 – A prophecy about thirty pieces of silver, fulfilled in Judas’ betrayal.
- Luke 6:12-16 – Judas is listed among the twelve disciples.
- Matthew 7:21-23 – A warning that not everyone who follows Jesus outwardly is truly saved.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Judas’ reaction in John 12:4 is a warning to examine our own hearts. It’s possible to be near Jesus, involved in Christian activities, and still have a heart far from Him.
This verse challenges us to ask:
- Are we truly devoted to Jesus, or are we just going through the motions?
- Do we value money, comfort, or personal gain more than worshiping Him?
- Are we criticizing others’ acts of devotion instead of focusing on our own hearts?
Mary saw Jesus as worthy of her most valuable possession. Judas, on the other hand, saw Jesus as an opportunity for personal gain. This contrast reminds us to treasure Jesus above all else.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown even in the midst of betrayal. Jesus knew Judas’ heart, yet He still allowed him to be part of His ministry. He gave Judas every opportunity to repent, showing His patience and grace.
Even though Judas’ actions were evil, God’s love and plan were greater. Jesus’ betrayal would lead to the cross, where He would die for the sins of the world—including sins of greed, hypocrisy, and betrayal.
This verse also reminds us that God’s love is not based on outward appearances. He looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). True love for God isn’t about looking religious but about genuine devotion to Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
John 12:4 is an early glimpse of Jesus’ coming suffering. Judas’ betrayal would set into motion the events leading to the cross.
This verse also connects to Jesus in the following ways:
- Jesus knew He would be betrayed – Yet He still chose to go to the cross (John 13:18-21).
- Jesus was betrayed for money – A reminder that worldly wealth is nothing compared to eternal life (Matthew 16:26).
- Jesus was rejected by one of His own – Just as the Messiah was prophesied to be (Psalm 41:9).
- Jesus remained sinless – Even as Judas betrayed Him, Jesus did not respond with hatred but with love, calling him “friend” in Matthew 26:50.
Judas’ betrayal didn’t take Jesus by surprise. He willingly walked toward His suffering because His mission was to save sinners—including those who, like Judas, have turned away from Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Judas’ response compare to Mary’s? What does this reveal about the condition of the heart?
- Have you ever struggled with valuing money or personal gain over worshiping Jesus? How can you guard your heart against that?
- Why do you think Jesus allowed Judas to remain among His disciples, knowing he would betray Him?
- In what ways do people today outwardly follow Jesus while inwardly having hearts far from Him?
- How can we ensure that our faith is genuine and not just an appearance of devotion?
John 12:4 is a reminder that true love for Jesus is seen in our actions, not just our words. It challenges us to examine whether we are worshiping Jesus with a sincere heart or merely going through the motions. Ultimately, it points us to the cross, where Jesus willingly gave His life—even for those who betrayed Him.