LUKE 22:1–6
THE PLOT TO BETRAY JESUS
Text – Luke 22:1–6
1 Now the feast of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was drawing near,
2 and the chief priests and the scribes were seeking how they might put him to death, for they feared the people.
3 Then Satan entered into Judas, the one surnamed Iscariot, who was counted among the Twelve,
4 and he went to the chief priests and temple guards to discuss a plan for handing him over to them.
5 They were pleased and agreed to pay him money.
6 He accepted their offer and sought a favorable opportunity to hand him over to them in the absence of a crowd.
Historical and Jewish Context
The Passover commemorated Israel’s liberation from slavery in Egypt and was the most sacred feast in Jewish life. Jerusalem swelled with pilgrims, intensifying both religious fervor and political tension. The chief priests and scribes feared public unrest if Jesus were arrested openly during the feast. Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, becomes the instrument through whom the leaders could act discreetly. The mention of “Satan entered into Judas” reflects a biblical way of expressing the tragic convergence of external temptation and interior consent. The plan to arrest Jesus away from the crowd underscores the leaders’ concern for control rather than justice.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage reveals the mystery of human freedom confronted by evil. Catholic theology teaches that Satan cannot compel the human will; Judas’ betrayal involves a real moral choice. The drama unfolds within God’s permissive will, not as a defeat of divine providence but as the path through which redemption will be accomplished. The betrayal during Passover intensifies the meaning of Christ as the true Paschal Lamb, whose sacrifice brings definitive liberation. The leaders’ fear of the people contrasts with Jesus’ fearless obedience to the Father. Even amid treachery, God’s saving plan advances.
Parallels in Scripture
Ex 12:1–14 – The original Passover and the blood of deliverance.
Ps 41:10 – “Even my trusted friend… has raised his heel against me.”
Zec 11:12–13 – Thirty pieces of silver associated with betrayal.
Jn 13:2 – The devil influences Judas during the supper.
Acts 1:16–20 – Scripture fulfilled in Judas’ betrayal.
Key Terms
Passover – Feast of deliverance, fulfilled in Christ’s sacrifice.
Satan entered – The influence of evil embraced through free choice.
Hand him over – Language of betrayal that anticipates the Passion.
Absence of a crowd – Fear-driven secrecy opposing truth and justice.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is proclaimed during Holy Week, marking the transition from Jesus’ public ministry to the Passion. It invites the faithful to examine the reality of betrayal, temptation, and fidelity. The Church places this text alongside the Eucharistic narratives to contrast human unfaithfulness with Christ’s self-giving love.
Conclusion
As Passover approaches, opposition hardens and betrayal takes shape. Judas’ decision reveals the tragedy of a disciple who turns away from grace, while Jesus continues steadfastly toward His saving sacrifice. Even in darkness, God’s plan of redemption moves forward.
Reflection
Am I vigilant against small compromises that can lead to greater unfaithfulness?
Do I allow fear, resentment, or self-interest to distance me from Christ?
Jesus invites me to choose fidelity daily and to trust God even when the cost is high.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, guard my heart from temptation and disloyalty. Give me the grace to remain faithful when trials arise and to choose Your will over fear or self-interest. May I walk with You in sincerity and love, especially in moments of testing. Amen.