Life situation · Relationships and family
Bible Verses About Betrayal
For when someone close has betrayed you: psalms of betrayal by a friend, Joseph sold by his brothers, Jesus betrayed by Judas and denied by Peter.
Editorial text in English. Scripture is quoted from the version you choose; references stay the same in every version.
Introduction
Some of the deepest pain in Scripture comes from people who were close: a friend who shared meals, brothers who sold their brother, a disciple who handed Jesus over with a kiss. Psalm 55:12–14Genesis 37:28Matthew 26:49
These passages give words for that pain, show God’s care for the betrayed, and leave judgment to God.
Passages to read
What each passage addresses in its own setting, and why it is relevant here. Read the surrounding verses too.
Psalm 55:12–23 Central teaching
What it addresses: A psalmist betrayed by a close companion.
Why it is relevant: “It was not an enemy who insulted me… but it was you, a man like me, my companion.” Then: “Cast your burden on the LORD.”
Psalm 41:9 Supporting passage
What it addresses: A psalm of someone ill and surrounded by false friends.
Why it is relevant: “My own familiar friend… has lifted up his heel against me.” Jesus applies this verse to Judas (John 13:18).
Genesis 37:18–28 Narrative example
What it addresses: Joseph’s brothers throw him into a pit and sell him.
Why it is relevant: Betrayal by family, and the start of a long story that ends in restoration.
Matthew 26:47–50 Narrative example
What it addresses: Judas leads a crowd to arrest Jesus and greets him with a kiss.
Why it is relevant: Jesus himself was betrayed by one of his closest companions.
Luke 22:54–62 Narrative example
What it addresses: Peter denies knowing Jesus three times.
Why it is relevant: Betrayal by a friend who later repents and is restored.
1 Peter 2:21–23 Central teaching
What it addresses: Peter encourages believers treated unjustly.
Why it is relevant: Christ did not retaliate but entrusted himself to him who judges justly.
Romans 12:19 Central teaching
What it addresses: Paul on revenge.
Why it is relevant: Do not avenge yourselves; leave room for God’s judgment.
Stories to read
Biblical narratives that involve the same experience. They describe what happened to particular people; they are not promises about every situation.
- Joseph and His Brothers Illustrates the theme
Joseph is betrayed by his brothers. Genesis 37:18–28
- Jacob and Esau
Esau is deceived by his brother. Genesis 27:35–36
People in Scripture who faced this
- Joseph
Betrayed by family and later by a false accusation. Genesis 37:28Genesis 39:19–20
- Judas Iscariot
Judas betrays Jesus. Matthew 26:14–16
- Simon Peter
Peter denies Jesus and is restored. Luke 22:61–62
Connected themes
- Justice
Leaving judgment to God. Romans 12:19
Questions for reflection
Optional. Written by BibleKenya editors; they are not Scripture. Your answers are not collected.
- What makes the betrayal in Psalm 55:12-14 so painful?
- How does Jesus respond to Judas (Matthew 26:50)?
- What does 1 Peter 2:23 say Jesus did instead of retaliating?
- What would help you carry this without letting it consume you?
A short reading plan
Ticks are kept on this device only.
Related situations
- Forgiving Someone
When you are trying to forgive. Colossians 3:13
- Anger
Anger after being betrayed. Psalm 55:12–14
Scripture, editorial reflection and professional advice are different things. The passages are quoted from the Bible version you choose; the explanations are BibleKenya’s; for health, legal, financial or safety decisions, seek qualified help.