"He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it." John 12:6 NIV
Historical-Cultural Context:
Author & Audience:
The Gospel of John, written by the Apostle John, emphasizes Jesus’ divinity and includes many theological reflections not found in the Synoptic Gospels.
John likely wrote to a Christian audience toward the end of the first century, reinforcing Jesus' divine identity and warning against false discipleship.
Context of Judas Iscariot:
Judas was one of the Twelve, but he had a hidden agenda—he was more interested in personal gain than true discipleship.
He served as the treasurer for Jesus’ group, responsible for their communal funds.
Stealing from the money bag was a betrayal of trust, foreshadowing his later betrayal of Jesus.
Jewish Attitudes Toward Theft & Greed:
The Torah condemned theft and dishonesty (Exodus 20:15).
Judas' behavior contrasts with Old Testament teachings on stewardship and faithfulness.
Literary Context:
Larger Context (John 12:1-11):
John 12:1-3 – Mary anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, symbolizing His upcoming burial.
John 12:4-5 – Judas criticizes her, claiming the perfume should have been sold for the poor.
John 12:6 – John exposes Judas' real motive—he was stealing.
John 12:7-8 – Jesus rebukes Judas, affirming the importance of worship over greed.
Theme: Hypocrisy and false discipleship.
Lexical and Grammatical Analysis:
"He did not say this because he cared about the poor" (οὐκ εἶπεν δὲ τοῦτο ὅτι περὶ τῶν πτωχῶν ἔμελεν αὐτῷ)
The phrase "he did not say this because" indicates John's editorial comment, revealing Judas' insincerity.
"He was a thief" (κλέπτης ἦν)
The Greek word kleptēs (κλέπτης) means a dishonest person who steals, often used metaphorically for deception.
"Used to help himself" (ἐβάσταζεν)
This verb can mean "to carry" or "to take away," suggesting ongoing theft.
"Keeper of the money bag" (γλωσσόκομον εἶχεν)
Glōssokomon (γλωσσόκομον) was a pouch for funds, likely for the group's needs.
Theological Context:
Greed vs. True Worship:
Judas prioritized money over Jesus, while Mary worshiped Jesus with costly devotion.
Hypocrisy & Deception:
Judas pretended to care for the poor but had a selfish agenda.
Foreshadowing Betrayal:
His love for money would ultimately lead him to betray Jesus for thirty silver coins (Matthew 26:14-16).
Genre Analysis:
Historical Narrative:
Describes real events leading to Jesus' crucifixion.
Moral Contrast:
Contrasts Mary’s sacrificial devotion with Judas’ selfishness.
Synthesis:
Main Idea: Judas pretended to be concerned for the poor, but in reality, he was stealing for himself.
Contrast:
Mary honored Jesus with an extravagant act of worship.
Judas dishonored Jesus by seeking personal gain.
Progression of Thought:
Judas criticizes Mary →
John exposes his real motive →
Jesus defends Mary’s act of worship.
Application:
For First-Century Readers:
Highlights the dangers of hypocrisy and greed within the church.
Warns that false disciples can exist even among Jesus’ followers.
For Today:
Challenges believers to examine their motives in serving Jesus.
Warns against placing money above devotion to Christ.
Emphasizes true worship over self-interest.
John 12:6 and the Last Days:
Was This Relevant Only to Jesus’ Time or to Ours as Well?
Immediate Context: Judas’ greed and deception led to betrayal.
Broader Biblical Perspective:
Jesus warned that in the last days, many would betray Him for worldly gain (Matthew 24:10-12).
2 Timothy 3:1-5 describes people in the end times as "lovers of money" and "having a form of godliness but denying its power."
Eschatological Connection:
Revelation 3:17 warns of spiritual lukewarmness—Judas represents those who are close to Jesus yet spiritually lost.
Revelation 13:16-17 – In the last days, financial gain will tempt many to compromise their faith, just as Judas did.
Summary: John 12:6 reveals Judas' true character, showing how greed and deception can lead to spiritual downfall. While this passage describes a specific historical moment, it serves as a warning for all generations, particularly as we approach the last days. Judas represents those who appear religious but serve themselves, reminding us to examine our hearts and prioritize Christ over material wealth.
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