Matthew 24:10

KJV

And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} then {G5119} shall many {G4183} be offended {G4624}, and {G2532} shall betray {G3860} one another {G240}, and {G2532} shall hate {G3404} one another {G240}.

Complete Jewish Bible

At that time many will be trapped into betraying and hating each other,

Berean Standard Bible

At that time many will fall away and will betray and hate one another,

American Standard Version

And then shall many stumble, and shall deliver up one another, and shall hate one another.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 24:10, a poignant verse from Jesus' Olivet Discourse, prophesies a chilling internal breakdown within communities during the escalating tribulation of the last days. It foretells a widespread spiritual falling away, marked by many being "offended" or caused to stumble from faith, leading to profound acts of betrayal and an alarming surge of mutual hatred among people, even those previously united. This verse paints a stark picture of the destructive impact of intense pressure on human relationships and spiritual fortitude, serving as a sobering warning of the moral and relational decay that will accompany the end times.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 24:10 is nestled within Jesus' extensive Olivet Discourse, delivered privately to His disciples on the Mount of Olives. This discourse, recorded in [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), [Mark 13](/mark/13 "Mark 13 - The Little Apocalypse"), and [Luke 21](/luke/21 "Luke 21 - Signs of the End"), addresses the disciples' questions regarding the destruction of the Temple and the signs of Jesus' coming and the end of the age ([Matthew 24:3](/matthew/24-3 "Matthew 24:3 - Disciples' Questions")). Preceding this verse, Jesus warns of widespread deception by [false christs and prophets](/matthew/24-4-5 "Matthew 24:4-5 - Warnings of Deception"), global conflicts, famines, and earthquakes ([Matthew 24:6-7](/matthew/24-6-7 "Matthew 24:6-7 - Birth Pains")). Critically, [Matthew 24:9](/matthew/24-9 "Matthew 24:9 - Persecution of Believers") explicitly prophesies intense persecution, where believers will be "delivered up to tribulation" and "hated by all nations for My name's sake." Against this backdrop of external pressure and global upheaval, verse 10 reveals the subsequent internal spiritual and relational decay, demonstrating how tribulation not only affects the world but also tests and often breaks the bonds of faith and fellowship within communities.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' prophecy in Matthew 24:10 would have resonated deeply with His Jewish disciples, who lived under Roman occupation and were acutely aware of the societal pressures and internal divisions that could arise from political and religious strife. The concepts of "offense" (stumbling from faith), "betrayal," and "hatred" carried significant weight within a covenant community that valued loyalty, familial bonds, and adherence to the Torah. Throughout Jewish history, internal divisions and betrayals had often accompanied periods of intense persecution or national crisis, such as during the Maccabean revolt or the Roman-Jewish wars. The expectation of a Messiah and the "end of the age" (often understood as the end of the present evil age and the ushering in of the Messianic era) was a prevalent theme. Jesus' words here highlight a dark aspect of this future, where the very fabric of trust and community would unravel, even among those who claimed faith, a stark contrast to the expected unity and righteousness of the Messianic kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 24:10 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within the Olivet Discourse and the broader book of Matthew. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Spiritual Apostasy and Deception**, revealing that the intense pressures of the end times will cause many to "stumble" or fall away from their faith, a concept further elaborated in Jesus' parables about the [seed falling on rocky ground](/matthew/13-20-21 "Matthew 13:20-21 - Parable of the Sower"). Secondly, the verse highlights the profound **Breakdown of Trust and Relationships**, prophesying that "betrayal" will become rampant, even among those who should be united, echoing the tragic betrayal of Jesus Himself by Judas Iscariot ([Matthew 26:47-50](/matthew/26-47-50 "Matthew 26:47-50 - Judas' Betrayal")). Thirdly, it speaks to the escalation of **Hatred and Malice**, indicating a chilling decline in love and unity, a theme Jesus directly addresses in [Matthew 24:12](/matthew/24-12 "Matthew 24:12 - Love Grows Cold"), where He states that "because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold." Finally, this verse serves as a powerful illustration of the **Impact of Tribulation on Human Fortitude**, demonstrating how external persecution and internal spiritual warfare can lead to devastating moral and relational decay, testing the endurance and perseverance of believers to their core.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **offended (Greek, _skandalízō_):** From σκάνδαλον (skandalon), meaning a trap-stick, a snare, or an impediment over which one stumbles. To "offend" in this context is far more than mere irritation; it means to cause to stumble, to put a snare or trap in the way, or to cause someone to fall away from faith, moral integrity, or commitment to Christ. It implies a spiritual collapse, a defection from truth, or a loss of allegiance, often triggered by persecution, false teaching, or the difficulties of life.
* **betray (Greek, _paradídōmi_):** From παρά (para, "alongside") and δίδωμι (didomi, "to give"). This word means to surrender, yield up, entrust, or transmit. In the context of betrayal, it signifies delivering someone over to an adversary, authorities, or danger, often for personal gain, out of fear, or due to a lack of conviction. It describes a profound breach of trust and loyalty, leading to the handing over of individuals to affliction or death.
* **hate (Greek, _miséō_):** From a primary root meaning "hatred." To detest, especially to persecute; by extension, to love less. This word describes an intense animosity, a strong aversion, or active ill-will. In the context of Matthew 24:10, it signifies the replacement of love and unity with division, malice, and active hostility, reflecting a deep spiritual darkness and the antithesis of the love commanded by Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And then shall many be offended":** This clause indicates a specific temporal progression ("then," referring to the period of tribulation previously described) and a widespread impact ("many"). The term "offended" (skandalízō) signifies a significant spiritual crisis where a large number of people, including those who once professed faith, will stumble, fall away from their convictions, or be led into sin and apostasy due to the intense pressures, deceptions, and persecutions of the age. It points to a crisis of faith and commitment.
* **"and shall betray one another":** Following the spiritual stumbling, this clause describes a devastating breakdown of trust and loyalty within human relationships. The widespread "betrayal" (paradídōmi) implies that individuals, perhaps even within families, communities, or religious groups, will deliver each other up to authorities or adversaries. This act is often driven by self-preservation, fear, or a complete abandonment of moral and spiritual principles, highlighting the severe erosion of societal and communal bonds.
* **"and shall hate one another":** This final clause marks the culmination and extreme escalation of the relational decay. Beyond merely stumbling or betraying, the prophecy states that people will actively "hate" (miséō) one another. This signifies a profound and pervasive animosity, where love, compassion, and unity are replaced by intense malice, division, and active ill-will. It illustrates the spiritual darkness that accompanies widespread apostasy and betrayal, leading to a society consumed by internal strife and antagonism.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 24:10 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its sobering message. The most prominent is **Progression or Climax**, as the verse describes a chilling escalation of moral and spiritual decay: from being "offended" (stumbling in faith), to "betraying" one another (a breakdown of trust), culminating in "hating" one another (an active, pervasive animosity). This tripartite structure builds tension and emphasizes the severity of the coming tribulation's impact on human relationships. The use of "many" (polýs) suggests **Generalization or Hyperbole**, indicating a widespread, though not necessarily universal, phenomenon, underscoring the pervasive nature of this internal collapse. The verse also functions as **Foreshadowing**, painting a vivid picture of the spiritual and social conditions that will characterize the end times, serving as a stark warning to Jesus' disciples and future generations. Implicitly, there is a powerful **Contrast** between the ideal of brotherly love and unity within the community of faith and the predicted reality of division, betrayal, and hatred, highlighting the antithetical nature of these actions to God's kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 24:10 speaks to the profound theological reality of human fallenness and the vulnerability of even professed faith when confronted with overwhelming pressure. It underscores the biblical theme of apostasy, where individuals, though once seemingly committed, can fall away from the truth, demonstrating that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but enduring allegiance. This verse also highlights the spiritual warfare at play in the world, where the enemy seeks to sow discord, deception, and division, ultimately aiming to extinguish love and unity within the body of Christ. The prophecy serves as a stark reminder that the ultimate test of faith often comes not just from external persecution but from the internal erosion of trust and the rise of malice, emphasizing the critical importance of perseverance and genuine, Spirit-empowered love as antidotes to such decay.

* [Matthew 24:12](/matthew/24-12 "Matthew 24:12 - Love Grows Cold")
* [2 Timothy 3:1-5](/2_timothy/3-1-5 "2 Timothy 3:1-5 - Perilous Times and People's Character")
* [1 John 4:7-8](/1_john/4-7-8 "1 John 4:7-8 - God is Love")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 24:10 serves as a profound warning and a call to spiritual vigilance for believers across all generations, particularly as we observe increasing societal pressures and divisions. This prophecy compels us to examine the depth of our own faith and the quality of our relationships within the Christian community. In a world where "offense" can easily arise from differing opinions, where "betrayal" can manifest in gossip or disloyalty, and where "hatred" can fester in online anonymity or political polarization, this verse challenges us to cultivate resilient faith, rooted deeply in Christ, and to actively practice radical love. It underscores the imperative to guard against anything that might cause us or others to stumble, to uphold trust and integrity in all our interactions, and to resist the temptation to allow bitterness or animosity to take root. Our perseverance in faith and our unwavering commitment to loving one another, even in difficult times, become powerful testimonies to the enduring power of the Gospel against the forces of decay.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How might the concept of being "offended" (skandalízō) manifest in our lives or communities today, and what personal and communal safeguards can we put in place to prevent spiritual stumbling?**
* **In what ways can we actively strengthen bonds of trust and loyalty within our Christian fellowships to prevent the kind of "betrayal" Jesus prophesied?**
* **Given the prophecy of "hatred," how can we, as followers of Christ, intentionally cultivate and demonstrate genuine love and unity, even towards those who differ from us or cause us difficulty?**
* **What practical steps can we take to ensure our faith is deeply rooted enough to "endure to the end" amidst increasing pressure and spiritual challenges?**

### FAQ

**Is this prophecy exclusively about the end of the world, or does it have relevance for believers today?**

Answer: While Matthew 24:10 is part of Jesus' eschatological discourse concerning the signs leading up to His second coming and the end of the age, its principles are timeless warnings that apply to believers in every generation. The tendencies to stumble, betray, and hate are manifestations of human sinfulness that can surface in any period of spiritual or societal pressure. Therefore, while the verse points to a climactic intensification of these behaviors in the last days, it also serves as a constant call to vigilance, perseverance, and love for Christians living in any era, urging them to guard against these destructive forces within their own hearts and communities.

**What is the deeper meaning of "offended" in this verse, beyond simply being annoyed?**

Answer: The King James Version's translation "offended" for the Greek word _skandalízō_ (G4624) carries a much stronger and more profound meaning than mere annoyance or irritation. It refers to being caused to stumble, to fall away from faith, or to be led into sin or apostasy. The root word, _skandalon_, originally referred to the bait-stick of a trap or a stumbling block. Thus, for "many to be offended" means that a significant number will encounter obstacles or temptations that cause them to lose their faith, abandon their moral integrity, or defect from their commitment to Christ. This spiritual collapse is often triggered by persecution, false teaching, or the severe trials of life, leading to a profound spiritual and relational breakdown.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 24:10, with its grim prophecy of stumbling, betrayal, and hatred, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not only in the world's rejection of God but also in the very person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself was the supreme example of one "offended" by many, as prophesied in [Isaiah 8:14](/isaiah/8-14 "Isaiah 8:14 - A Stone of Stumbling"), becoming a "stone of stumbling and a rock of offense" to those who rejected Him ([1 Peter 2:8](/1_peter/2-8 "1 Peter 2:8 - Christ, the Stumbling Stone")). He was the innocent Lamb of God who was "betrayed" by one of His own disciples, Judas Iscariot, a profound act of treachery that led to His crucifixion ([Matthew 26:47-50](/matthew/26-47-50 "Matthew 26:47-50 - Judas' Betrayal")). Furthermore, Jesus endured the ultimate "hatred" from a world that preferred darkness to light, as He Himself declared, "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you" ([John 15:18](/john/15-18 "John 15:18 - The World's Hatred")). Yet, it is precisely through His suffering, betrayal, and death—the ultimate act of love—that He conquered the power of sin, which manifests as stumbling, betrayal, and hatred. His atoning sacrifice provides the means for reconciliation, forgiveness, and the transformation of hearts, enabling believers, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, to overcome these destructive tendencies and to fulfill His new commandment: to "love one another, just as I have loved you" ([John 13:34](/john/13-34 "John 13:34 - The New Commandment")). In His second coming, Christ will fully establish His kingdom of perfect love and justice, bringing an end to all forms of offense, betrayal, and hatred, and ushering in an era where God will wipe away every tear and there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Pain")).

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

Micah 7:5

Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.

Micah 7:6

For the son dishonoureth the father, the daughter riseth up against her mother, the daughter in law against her mother in law; a man's enemies [are] the men of his own house.

Mark 13:12

Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against [their] parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.

Matthew 11:6

And blessed is [he], whosoever shall not be offended in me.

Luke 21:16

And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and [some] of you shall they cause to be put to death.

Mark 4:17

And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.

2 Timothy 4:16

¶ At my first answer no man stood with me, but all [men] forsook me: [I pray God] that it may not be laid to their charge.