The phrase "Thirty with him" is a reference found in the context of the betrayal of Jesus Christ by Judas Iscariot, one of His twelve disciples. This phrase is deeply rooted in the narrative of the New Testament, specifically in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. It is associated with the thirty pieces of silver that Judas received as payment for betraying Jesus to the religious authorities.

Biblical Context

The account of Judas's betrayal is recorded in several of the Gospels, with Matthew providing a detailed description of the transaction. In Matthew 26:14-16 , it is written: "Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. So from that time on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus."

The "thirty pieces of silver" is a significant amount, as it fulfills the prophecy found in the Old Testament. In Zechariah 11:12-13 , the prophet Zechariah speaks of thirty pieces of silver as the price set for his labor, which he sarcastically refers to as a "handsome price." The Lord then instructs him to throw it to the potter, a detail that is later mirrored in the New Testament narrative.

Theological Significance

The thirty pieces of silver symbolize the price of betrayal and the fulfillment of prophecy. This transaction highlights the gravity of Judas's actions and the fulfillment of God's sovereign plan. The amount, while seemingly arbitrary, is laden with meaning, as it was the price of a slave according to Exodus 21:32 : "If the ox gores a male or female slave, the owner must pay thirty shekels of silver to the master of the slave, and the ox must be stoned."

This connection underscores the humility and suffering of Christ, who, though the Son of God, was betrayed for the price of a slave. It also reflects the depravity of human sinfulness and the lengths to which God would go to redeem humanity.

Judas's Remorse and the Aftermath

After Jesus was condemned, Judas experienced remorse for his actions. Matthew 27:3-5 recounts: "When Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was filled with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders. 'I have sinned by betraying innocent blood,' he said. 'What is that to us?' they replied. 'You bear the responsibility.' So Judas threw the silver into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself."

The chief priests, deeming the money as "blood money," used it to buy the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners, thus fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah and further demonstrating the unfolding of divine providence.

Conclusion

The phrase "Thirty with him" encapsulates a pivotal moment in the passion narrative of Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder of the cost of betrayal, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the redemptive plan of God through the sacrifice of His Son. The thirty pieces of silver, while a small sum, carry profound theological implications that resonate throughout the Christian faith.