Luke 22:4

KJV

And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he went his way {G565}, and communed with {G4814} the chief priests {G749} and {G2532} captains {G4755}, how {G4459} he might betray {G3860} him {G846} unto them {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He approached the head cohanim and the Temple guard and discussed with them how he might turn Yeshua over to them.

Berean Standard Bible

And Judas went to discuss with the chief priests and temple officers how he might betray Jesus to them.

American Standard Version

And he went away, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might deliver him unto them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 22:4 details Judas Iscariot's immediate and decisive action following his decision to betray Jesus, initiating the conspiratorial process that would lead to Christ's arrest. This verse describes Judas's direct engagement with the highest religious authorities and the temple police, seeking a means to deliver Jesus into their hands, thereby formalizing the plot against his Master.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the profound and chilling declaration in [Luke 22:3](/luke/22-3 "Luke 22:3 - Satan Enters Judas"), where Satan is said to have entered Judas Iscariot, prompting his decision to betray Jesus. The narrative then shifts from Judas's internal spiritual state and resolve to his external, tangible actions. It sets the stage for the Passover meal, the Last Supper, and the subsequent arrest in Gethsemane, establishing the human agency and specific mechanisms through which the divine plan of salvation would unfold. The preceding verses ([Luke 22:1-2](/luke/22-1-2 "Luke 22:1-2 - The Plot to Kill Jesus")) reveal the chief priests and scribes were already actively seeking a way to kill Jesus, but feared the people. Judas's appearance provides them with the opportune means they sought.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "chief priests" (ἀρχιερεῖς, _archiereis_) were the heads of the priestly courses, primarily members of the aristocratic Sadducee party, who held significant power within the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish governing council. The "captains" (στρατηγοί, _stratēgoi_) refer to the captains of the temple guard, Levites responsible for maintaining order within the Temple precincts, acting under the authority of the chief priests. This meeting would have taken place in a private setting, likely at the residence of the high priest or another influential religious leader, given the clandestine nature of their plot and their desire to avoid public disturbance, especially during the crowded Passover festival in Jerusalem. The timing, just before Passover, was critical, as the authorities wanted to apprehend Jesus before the throngs of pilgrims dispersed.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 22:4 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. It powerfully illustrates the theme of **betrayal and treachery**, as one of Jesus's own chosen disciples actively conspires against Him. It also highlights the **conspiracy of human authorities** against God's anointed, a theme echoed throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [Psalm 2:2](/psalms/2-2 "Psalm 2:2 - The Conspiracy Against the Lord's Anointed")). Paradoxically, this human evil and calculated plot serve to underscore the theme of **divine sovereignty**, where even the most wicked human actions are ultimately woven into God's predetermined plan for salvation, as later articulated by Peter in [Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Determined Purpose and Foreknowledge"). The verse further introduces the theme of **the cost of discipleship and the danger of spiritual compromise**, as Judas's initial yielding to temptation leads him down a path of irreversible and tragic consequences.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **communed (Greek, _syllaléō'_):** From σύν (syn, "with") and λαλέω (laleō, "to speak"), meaning "to talk together," "to converse," or "to confer with." This word implies a deliberate, joint discussion and planning session, emphasizing the collaborative and conspiratorial nature of the betrayal plot. It was not a casual encounter but a purposeful meeting to strategize.
* **chief priests (Greek, _archiereús'_):** From ἀρχή (archē, "chief" or "first") and ἱερεύς (hiereus, "priest"). This term refers to the high-priest (singular) or, as here, to the leading members of the priestly aristocracy who held significant religious and political power within the Jewish Sanhedrin. Their involvement signifies the official, institutional opposition to Jesus.
* **betray (Greek, _paradídōmi'_):** From παρά (para, "alongside") and δίδωμι (didōmi, "to give"). This verb means "to surrender," "to yield up," "to intrust," or "to transmit." In this context, it carries the negative connotation of "to hand over" or "to deliver up" someone to their enemies, highlighting Judas's active role in facilitating Jesus's arrest and subsequent suffering. This same word is frequently used in the New Testament to describe Jesus being "delivered up" to suffer and die, underscoring the profound irony and theological significance of Judas's act.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he went his way":** This phrase signifies Judas's immediate and deliberate action following his decision to betray Jesus. It indicates a purposeful departure from the company of Jesus and the other disciples, marking his initiation of the treacherous plan. It underscores his active agency in the unfolding events.
* **"and communed with the chief priests and captains":** This clause reveals the specific individuals with whom Judas conspired. The "chief priests" represent the highest religious authority, actively seeking Jesus's demise, while the "captains" (of the temple guard) denote the enforcement arm of this authority. Judas's direct engagement with them highlights the formalization of the plot and his willingness to collaborate with those who sought to destroy his Master.
* **"how he might betray him unto them":** This final clause clarifies the explicit purpose of Judas's meeting: to devise a method for Jesus's capture. The word "betray" (paradídōmi) here carries the weight of delivering Jesus into the hands of His enemies, emphasizing the perfidious nature of Judas's act. It was not merely about informing, but about actively facilitating the arrest in a manner that suited the authorities' desire to avoid public outcry.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 22:4 employs several literary devices to enhance its impact. **Irony** is prominent, as a disciple, one of Jesus's chosen twelve, becomes the instrument of His betrayal. The very individual called to follow and learn from Jesus now conspires to hand Him over to His adversaries. There is also a strong element of **foreshadowing**, as Judas's act of "delivering up" Jesus anticipates the broader theological truth that Jesus would be "delivered up" for the sins of the world, a theme central to the New Testament's understanding of the atonement. The verse also presents a stark **contrast** between the light and truth represented by Jesus and the darkness and deception embodied by Judas and the conspiring authorities. This immediate shift from Judas's internal decision to his external, calculated action creates a sense of dramatic tension, propelling the narrative towards its climactic events.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 22:4 serves as a stark reminder of the reality of human sin and the insidious nature of betrayal, even within the closest circles. It highlights the chilling intersection of human agency and divine sovereignty. While Judas's act was undeniably a heinous sin, driven by his own corrupted will and influenced by Satan, it paradoxically fit into God's overarching plan for the redemption of humanity. This verse underscores that God's purposes are so vast and unshakeable that even the most malicious acts of humanity cannot thwart them, but rather, in His mysterious wisdom, are incorporated into His redemptive design. The betrayal of Jesus, though a profound tragedy, was a necessary step towards the cross, where the ultimate victory over sin and death would be secured.

* [John 13:2](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - The Devil Puts It Into Judas's Heart")
* [Acts 1:16-20](/acts/1-16-20 "Acts 1:16-20 - Judas's Betrayal and Demise")
* [1 Corinthians 11:23](/1_corinthians/11-23 "1 Corinthians 11:23 - The Lord Jesus on the Night He Was Betrayed")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 22:4 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a sobering warning against the dangers of unaddressed sin and spiritual compromise. Judas's journey from disciple to betrayer was not instantaneous but likely a gradual erosion of faith and integrity, perhaps fueled by covetousness or unmet expectations. This reminds us of the critical need for constant self-examination, vigilance against temptation, and a steadfast commitment to Christ, even when His path seems difficult or contrary to our immediate desires. The verse also challenges us to consider our own allegiances: are we truly "going our way" in alignment with Christ's will, or are we, in subtle or overt ways, "communing" with forces that seek to undermine His kingdom or our faithfulness to Him? Ultimately, while we are called to mourn the reality of betrayal, we are also invited to marvel at God's sovereign ability to bring about His glorious purposes even through the darkest human acts, fostering a deep trust in His ultimate control and goodness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What hidden desires or unaddressed temptations in my own life could, if left unchecked, lead to spiritual compromise or betrayal of Christ?**
* **How does this account of Judas's betrayal challenge my understanding of human free will and God's sovereign plan?**
* **In what ways might I be "communing" with influences or ideologies that subtly work against my commitment to Jesus?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart of greater faithfulness and vigilance to avoid the pitfalls exemplified by Judas?**

### FAQ
**Why did Judas betray Jesus?**

Answer: The text in [Luke 22:3](/luke/22-3 "Luke 22:3 - Satan Enters Judas") states that "Satan entered into Judas." While this highlights a spiritual influence, it doesn't negate Judas's personal responsibility. Other Gospels suggest motives like greed ([Matthew 26:15](/matthew/26-15 "Matthew 26:15 - Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus for Thirty Pieces of Silver")), as he was the treasurer and known to steal ([John 12:6](/john/12-6 "John 12:6 - Judas's Hypocrisy and Greed")). Some scholars propose he may have been disillusioned with Jesus's perceived failure to establish an earthly kingdom, hoping to force Jesus's hand or provoke a messianic uprising. Ultimately, a combination of spiritual darkness, personal sin (like covetousness), and unmet expectations likely contributed to his tragic decision to "betray him unto them."

**Who were the "captains" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "captains" (Greek: _stratēgoi_) refer to the captains of the Temple guard. These were Levites, often priests themselves, who were responsible for maintaining order within the Temple courts, enforcing religious law, and guarding the Temple treasury. They operated under the direct authority of the chief priests. Their involvement with Judas indicates that the chief priests were not only seeking counsel on how to arrest Jesus but were also mobilizing their enforcement arm to carry out the capture discreetly and effectively. They were the practical, operational arm of the Jewish religious establishment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 22:4, detailing Judas's calculated betrayal, is a pivotal moment that, though born of human sin and demonic influence, ultimately serves to highlight the greater redemptive purpose of God in Christ. Judas's act of "delivering up" Jesus foreshadows and sets in motion the divine plan wherein Jesus Himself would be "delivered up" for the sins of the world. This is not merely a tragic event, but a necessary step in the unfolding of God's love and justice. The New Testament consistently portrays Jesus as the willing Lamb of God, who, though betrayed by one of His own, voluntarily submitted to the Father's will, allowing Himself to be handed over to death. As [Isaiah 53:6](/isaiah/53-6 "Isaiah 53:6 - All We Like Sheep Have Gone Astray") prophesied, "the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all," and [Romans 8:32](/romans/8-32 "Romans 8:32 - God Did Not Spare His Own Son") proclaims, "He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?" Thus, Judas's betrayal, while a profound act of human evil, became the dark backdrop against which the radiant, self-sacrificial love of Christ, who was "delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification" ([Romans 4:25](/romans/4-25 "Romans 4:25 - Jesus Delivered Up and Raised")), shines even brighter, bringing about salvation for all who believe.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 4:1

¶ And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,

Acts 5:24

Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.

Acts 5:26

¶ Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.

Matthew 26:14

¶ Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,

Luke 22:52

Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were come to him, Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves?

Mark 14:10

And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them.

Mark 14:11

And when they heard [it], they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.