30 Important bible verses about betrayal (With Explanation)

Today we will talk about bible verses about betrayal. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. Betrayal cuts deep — it can come from those closest to us and leave us confused, hurt, and searching for answers. As we gather together, let us open our hearts to Scripture that speaks frankly about betrayal, the pain it brings, and the way God comforts, guides, and restores us. We will look at passages that show honest sorrow, call us to wisdom, remind us of God’s justice, and invite us to forgiveness and healing. As we read, let us pray for clear eyes and calm hearts so the truth of these verses can lead us to peace and strength.

“Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.” – Psalm 41:9

bible verses about betrayal

Betrayal by a Friend — bible verses about betrayal

In this section, we look at how our hearts ache when a friend betrays us. We will walk together through passages that show betrayal by those we trusted. As we study these bible verses about betrayal, we remember that betrayal by friends is painfully real but not hidden from God. We have all known someone we trusted who turned against us, or we have felt the sting of a secret or gossip that came from a close companion. When we read these words, we want to understand the human picture and the spiritual reality behind the pain. We will see how Scripture names the hurt honestly, how it warns us to be wise about whom we trust, and how it shows that even great betrayal has a place in God’s larger story. We will also learn how the Lord walks with the wounded and how He models trust, endurance, and truth even when those closest to us fail. While these bible verses about betrayal may bring tears, they also point us to comfort, discernment, healing, and to the promise that God sees every wrong. We read not only to remember the pain, but to be guided in how we respond: with faithful hearts, careful wisdom, and a spirit that seeks justice and mercy together. Let us read these verses slowly and let them shape our steps forward as a community seeking to honor God in the midst of betrayal.

Psalm 41:9

“Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.” – Psalm 41:9

Psalm 55:12

“For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then would I have hid myself from him:” – Psalm 55:12

John 13:18

“I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.” – John 13:18

Proverbs 17:17

“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” – Proverbs 17:17

Matthew 26:49

“And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, Master; and kissed him.” – Matthew 26:49

Betrayal in Family Relationships — bible verses about betrayal

When betrayal comes within our families, it cuts at the very roots of our safety. Families are meant to be places of shelter and trust, and when that trust is broken, we feel destabilized. As we read these bible verses about betrayal in family settings, we speak together about the hard truth that conflict, rejection, and even betrayal can appear where love is supposed to be strongest. We see that Scripture does not hide from that reality: it records family divisions, betrayal, and the pain that follows. But it also points us toward faithfulness, healing, and the ways God holds us when our closest relationships fail. In these passages we are reminded to exercise careful love: to protect the vulnerable while seeking reconciliation when it is possible and healthy. We learn that betrayal at the hands of family is not a mark of our worthlessness but a human sorrow that God understands. As a community, we support one another to seek wise boundaries, to pursue truth gently, and to trust God’s presence even when family ties are strained. Reading these bible verses about betrayal in family contexts helps us realize that we are not alone in our hurt; others in Scripture suffered similarly, and God provides steps toward peace and safety as we walk forward together.

Matthew 10:21

“And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death.” – Matthew 10:21

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.” – Micah 7:6

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.” – Luke 21:16

Mark 13:12

“And the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.” – Mark 13:12

Psalm 27:10

“When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.” – Psalm 27:10

The Betrayal of Jesus — bible verses about betrayal

We gather to reflect on the betrayal of Jesus, a central example in Scripture. When we study bible verses about betrayal that tell of Jesus’ own suffering, we are reminded that betrayal is not a new problem; it touched the life of the Son of God. We read these passages together to see how Jesus faced treachery from one of his closest followers, and how he responded with truth and, ultimately, with love. These verses help us understand both the gravity of betrayal and the depth of Jesus’ compassion. As we read, we feel both sorrow and awe: sorrow for the pain inflicted upon an innocent servant of God, and awe that Jesus endured such wrongs and still showed mercy. In this group of bible verses about betrayal, we learn how Scripture paints betrayal as part of the path that led to redemption, not as a final victory for evil. We also are reminded that our Savior understands when we are hurt by those near to us. Together, we reflect on how Jesus’ response—His calm, His knowledge, and His forgiveness—shapes how we can hold truth and grace in the face of betrayal. Let these passages ground us in humility and courage as we follow Him.

Luke 22:48

“Then said he unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” – Luke 22:48

Matthew 26:25

“Then Judas which betrayed him answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.” – Matthew 26:25

John 13:27

“And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.” – John 13:27

Matthew 26:50

“Then said Jesus unto them, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.” – Matthew 26:50

John 18:2

“And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus oft times resorted thither with his disciples.” – John 18:2

Coping with the Pain of Betrayal — bible verses about betrayal

We walk together when betrayal leaves us wounded, and we need help to cope. These bible verses about betrayal remind us that God is near the brokenhearted. As a group, we want to acknowledge the raw pain that betrayal brings while turning to Scripture for comfort and strength. The Bible does not pretend the hurt is small; instead, it offers breathing room for our grief and gives promises to sustain us. We learn to hand our bitterness to the Lord, to seek healing, and to accept the slow work of recovery. In these passages, we find practical solace: God heals wounds, holds us close, gives courage to face each day, and helps us carry the weight when we feel unable. Reading these bible verses about betrayal together helps us not to harden into anger but to be shaped toward recovery. We also find bravery in admitting our weakness and asking for God’s help. When we support one another in the wake of betrayal, Scripture gives us both comfort and a way forward. Let us take these promises to heart and trust God as our Healer and Sustainer during the slow process of mending.

Psalm 34:18

“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

Psalm 147:3

“He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3

Isaiah 41:10

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” – Isaiah 41:10

Philippians 4:6

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” – Philippians 4:6

Psalm 55:22

“Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” – Psalm 55:22

Forgiving Those Who Betray — bible verses about betrayal

Forgiveness after betrayal is one of the hardest steps we can take, yet it is central to our faith. These bible verses about betrayal guide us in the radical act of forgiving those who have wronged us. As a community, we must say plainly that forgiveness does not always mean immediate reconciliation or erasing consequences; rather, it is a spiritual choice to release the desire for personal revenge. When betrayal wounds us deeply, Scripture calls us to a higher path: to let go of bitterness, to pray for our enemies, and to seek the peace that comes from God’s mercy. We read these verses together to encourage each other to practice mercy, even when it feels impossible. In forgiveness we protect our hearts from being twisted by hate, and we open space for God to heal. These bible verses about betrayal show examples of Jesus forgiving and teach us principles for forgiving others. We walk this way not because the wrong was small, but because God’s forgiveness toward us has invited us to reflect that same mercy. Let us help one another take small, steady steps toward forgiveness and freedom.

Matthew 6:14

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:” – Matthew 6:14

Luke 23:34

“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.” – Luke 23:34

Ephesians 4:32

“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” – Ephesians 4:32

Colossians 3:13

“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” – Colossians 3:13

Matthew 18:22

“Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” – Matthew 18:22

Warnings About Betrayers — bible verses about betrayal

Scripture warns us about those who would do harm by deceit and treachery. As we read these bible verses about betrayal, we learn to be discerning without becoming paranoid. The Bible gives us signs to watch for: charm that covers ill intent, sweet words that hide selfish aims, and leaders who teach what serves themselves rather than God. We must learn how to guard our hearts and communities while still remaining open to love and trust. These verses tell us that betrayal is often hidden beneath friendly faces or clever speech, so we should seek wisdom and testing in relationships. We also learn practical ways to protect the vulnerable and maintain healthy boundaries. As a group, we remind one another that discernment is an act of care, not of suspicion: it helps keep the church safe and honors the truth. These bible verses about betrayal guide us to notice warning signs, to pray for clarity, and to act justly when betrayal is uncovered. Let us grow wise together so that trust is built on truth and our fellowship stays strong.

Matthew 7:15

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” – Matthew 7:15

2 Timothy 3:3

“Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,” – 2 Timothy 3:3

Jeremiah 9:5

“And they will deceive every one his neighbour, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies, and weary themselves to commit iniquity.” – Jeremiah 9:5

Proverbs 26:24

“He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him;” – Proverbs 26:24

2 Peter 2:1

“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies…” – 2 Peter 2:1

God’s Justice for Betrayal — bible verses about betrayal

When betrayal feels unbearable, we look to God for justice. These bible verses about betrayal remind us that ultimate judgment belongs to the Lord. We may be tempted to demand personal revenge or to carry grudges, but Scripture teaches us to trust God’s righteous judgment. As we study these passages together, we find hope: God sees every wrong, and He cares about justice for the wounded. We do not have to be the final arbiter; instead, we release vengeance to God and focus on faithful living. This does not mean we ignore injustice — rather, we pray for right outcomes and act responsibly — but we also trust God to set things straight in His time. These verses encourage us to leave the settled account to the Lord while we seek peace and truth. As a community, we support one another in trusting God’s justice, praying for healing, and working toward restoration wherever possible. Let these bible verses about betrayal teach us patience under trial and confidence in God’s righteous ways.

Romans 12:19

“Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” – Romans 12:19

Hebrews 10:30

“For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.” – Hebrews 10:30

Psalm 94:1

“O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, shine forth.” – Psalm 94:1

Psalm 37:28

“For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.” – Psalm 37:28

Revelation 6:10

“And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?” – Revelation 6:10

Trusting God After Betrayal — bible verses about betrayal

After betrayal we may wonder who we can trust. These bible verses about betrayal point us back to God as the anchor of our trust. We will share these passages to encourage one another to place our confidence in the Lord even when human trust has been broken. Scripture tells us that God is a safe refuge, steady and true, unlike people who sometimes fail. By focusing on God’s faithfulness, we do not deny the hurt; instead, we find a solid place to stand as we rebuild relationships and our own sense of safety. When we trust God, we let Him carry the load and guide our steps in rebuilding trust carefully and with wisdom. These verses help us grow in patience, courage, and hope. As a community, we remind each other that God’s love is not conditional on another person’s faithfulness; God remains loyal even when others are not. Let these bible verses about betrayal restore our hearts to a deep, patient trust in the God who never fails.

Proverbs 3:5

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5

Psalm 56:3

“What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” – Psalm 56:3

Jeremiah 17:7

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.” – Jeremiah 17:7

Psalm 23:4

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4

Isaiah 40:31

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

Reconciliation and Restoration After Betrayal — bible verses about betrayal

We long for restoration when betrayal breaks relationships. These bible verses about betrayal offer steps and hope for reconciliation, but they also set realistic expectations. Scripture makes room for repentance, rebuilding trust, and for accountability. As we learn from these passages, reconciliation is often a two-way path: the wounded person may need time and healing, while the one who betrayed must show genuine repentance. We read these verses together to find courage to seek reconciliation when it is right and safe and to accept God’s work of restoration even when our human plans fail. God can mend what has been torn, and He calls us to be agents of reconciliation when possible. But Scripture also guides us to protect ourselves and others when change is not genuine. These bible verses about betrayal remind us to pray for humility, for a willingness to forgive where appropriate, and for wisdom to rebuild relationships in truth. We walk this road together, trusting God to heal wounds and to lead us toward right relationships.

Joel 2:25

“And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar…” – Joel 2:25

2 Corinthians 5:18

“And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;” – 2 Corinthians 5:18

Acts 3:19

“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;” – Acts 3:19

Galatians 6:1

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness…” – Galatians 6:1

Psalm 51:10

“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” – Psalm 51:10

Growing Wise After Betrayal — bible verses about betrayal

After we are hurt, we want to grow wiser so the same wounds do not come again. These bible verses about betrayal teach us wisdom for the future. They warn against gossip, flattery, and deceit, and they encourage prudence, careful speech, and asking God for wisdom. We read these passages together to gain healthy habits: learning to listen more, to test motives, and to build trust slowly. Wisdom from Scripture helps us know when to forgive and when to protect, when to speak up and when to stay silent. As a community, we commit to growing in discernment without becoming cynical. God’s Word gives us clear guidelines that balance safety with grace. These bible verses about betrayal help us rebuild trust on safer ground and equip us to care for others while keeping ourselves and our communities secure. Let us ask God to teach us practical wisdom so betrayal does not become a cycle in our lives.

Proverbs 11:13

“A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.” – Proverbs 11:13

Proverbs 27:6

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” – Proverbs 27:6

Proverbs 16:28

“A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.” – Proverbs 16:28

James 1:5

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – James 1:5

Proverbs 22:3

“A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.” – Proverbs 22:3

Final Thoughts

I have shared these bible verses about betrayal to help us face the truth and find God in the hurt. Betrayal is painful, but God knows our pain and gives us resources to cope, forgive, and grow.

We have seen warnings, promises of justice, and examples from Jesus that guide us. As we move forward, let us ask God for wisdom, healing, and strength to act with grace and prudence.

We will walk this road together—encouraging one another, praying for restoration where it is right, and trusting God to be our true and faithful refuge.

Further Reading

30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)

30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)

4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4