Matthew 27:7

Matthew 27:7 details the chief priests' decision regarding the 30 pieces of silver returned by Judas Iscariot after his betrayal of Jesus. Unable to put the "blood money" back into the temple treasury, they used it to purchase a burial ground.

Context

Following Judas's remorse and subsequent suicide, he threw the 30 pieces of silver—the price of Jesus's betrayal—back into the temple. The chief priests and elders, bound by Mosaic Law, deemed this money defiled (Deuteronomy 23:18, though not explicitly cited, the principle applies to 'wages of a harlot' or 'price of a dog'). They "took counsel" to determine its use, ultimately deciding to acquire a piece of land known as "the potter's field." This field was designated as a burial place for "strangers," meaning non-Jewish residents or foreigners who died in Jerusalem without a family plot.

Key Themes

• Consequences of Unrighteous Gain: The verse highlights the defiling nature of money obtained through sin, specifically the betrayal of an innocent man. The chief priests, while condemning Judas's act, were also complicit in Jesus's condemnation, making their handling of the money ironic.
• Divine Providence and Prophecy Fulfillment: The purchase of the potter's field with the 30 pieces of silver directly fulfills an Old Testament prophecy. While Matthew attributes this to Jeremiah, scholars often see it as a combination of Zechariah 11:12-13 and Jeremiah 32:6-9, or a general prophetic tradition. This event underscores God's sovereignty, even over the wicked actions of men.
• Provision for the Marginalized: Despite the nefarious origin of the funds, the field became a burial place for "strangers." This seemingly charitable act, though driven by legalistic concerns rather than genuine compassion, inadvertently provided for those without status or family connections in Jerusalem.

Linguistic Insights

The term "potter's field" (Greek: agros tou kerameos) suggests a piece of land from which clay had been extracted, making it barren or of little agricultural value. It was likely cheap to acquire. This field later became known as Aceldama, or "the Field of Blood," a name that forever linked it to Judas's betrayal and death, as recorded in Acts 1:18-19.

Practical Application

Matthew 27:7 offers several lessons for believers today:

• The Destructive Nature of Sin: Judas's actions led to his own destruction and left a lasting stain on the money involved. This serves as a reminder that sin, especially betrayal, has profound and often unforeseen consequences.
• God's Sovereignty Amidst Evil: Even in acts of profound evil and betrayal, God's overarching plan and prophetic word are fulfilled. This can bring comfort, knowing that God remains in control even when human actions are wicked.
• Integrity in Stewardship: The chief priests' meticulousness about the "blood money" highlights the importance of integrity, even if their motives were flawed. Believers are called to handle resources with wisdom and purity, ensuring our gains are righteous and used for God's glory, not just to alleviate guilt.