Matthew 27:6 – “The chief priests picked up the coins and said, ‘It is against the law to put this into the treasury, since it is blood money.'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse captures the moment when the chief priests decide what to do with the thirty pieces of silver Judas threw into the temple. Although they had paid Judas this money to betray Jesus, they now deem it “blood money” and unfit for the temple treasury. Their statement shows an ironic concern for following religious rules, even as they ignore the gravity of their own actions in orchestrating Jesus’ death.
Their recognition of the money as “blood money” also highlights their awareness of their moral guilt, even if they refuse to admit it outright. Rather than repenting, they shift focus to legalistic concerns about how to handle the situation.
Historical Context
The term “blood money” refers to payment given in exchange for a life, particularly in cases of betrayal or murder. In Jewish tradition, money associated with unjust death was considered defiled and could not be used in the temple.
At this point in the narrative, Jesus had been handed over to Pilate, and the religious leaders were focused on ensuring His crucifixion. Their sudden concern for the temple treasury reflects their hypocrisy—they were more interested in maintaining appearances than addressing the deeper injustice they had committed.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals the danger of focusing on outward religious practices while ignoring inner righteousness. The chief priests’ actions demonstrate how legalism can blind people to their own sin. They are concerned with the technicalities of the law while ignoring the moral weight of their actions against Jesus, the Son of God.
Theologically, this verse also reminds us that human schemes and sinfulness cannot derail God’s redemptive plan. Even as the religious leaders act hypocritically, their actions fulfill prophecy and contribute to the unfolding of God’s plan for salvation.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses irony to highlight the moral blindness of the chief priests. They are quick to declare the money as unfit for the temple treasury but fail to see their own unfitness before God due to their actions. The term “blood money” carries significant weight, symbolizing not only Judas’ betrayal but also their complicity in Jesus’ unjust condemnation.
The structure of the verse draws attention to their legalistic mindset, contrasting their outward piety with their inward corruption.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 27:25 – “Cursed is anyone who accepts a bribe to kill an innocent person.” This highlights the seriousness of accepting or using blood money.
- Isaiah 29:13 – “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”
- Matthew 23:27-28 – Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for appearing righteous outwardly while being full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
- Zechariah 11:12-13 – The prophecy about the thirty pieces of silver and their eventual rejection.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a warning against hypocrisy and misplaced priorities. It challenges believers to examine their own hearts and ensure that their faith is genuine, not just outwardly religious. True faith requires not only adherence to God’s commands but also a commitment to justice, mercy, and humility.
The chief priests’ actions also remind us of the importance of repentance. Instead of addressing their sin, they focused on maintaining their image, missing the opportunity to turn to God for forgiveness.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Even in the midst of human corruption and hypocrisy, God’s love is evident. The leaders’ handling of the blood money did not thwart God’s plan for redemption. In fact, their actions fulfilled prophecy, showing that God’s purposes prevail even through human sin.
God’s love is further displayed in His willingness to offer forgiveness to all, including the chief priests, if they would repent and turn to Him. This verse underscores the truth that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. The term “blood money” highlights the gravity of His death, as He was betrayed and condemned despite His innocence. The leaders’ refusal to use the money in the temple contrasts with Jesus’ role as the perfect offering, whose blood would bring redemption and reconciliation between God and humanity (Hebrews 9:14).
Jesus’ innocence and the corrupt actions of the religious leaders emphasize His role as the sinless Lamb of God who willingly bore the sins of the world (John 1:29).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to reflect on your own motivations in serving God? Are you focused on outward actions or inward righteousness?
- What does this verse teach about the dangers of legalism and hypocrisy in faith?
- How can you guard against prioritizing rules and traditions over justice and mercy in your own life?
- What does the term “blood money” teach us about the cost of sin and the value of Jesus’ sacrifice?