The prediction of Jesus' betrayal is a significant event recorded in the New Testament, highlighting the foreknowledge and divine mission of Jesus Christ. This event is documented in the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—as well as in the Gospel of John. Each account provides unique details that contribute to the understanding of this pivotal moment in the life of Jesus and His disciples.

Matthew 26:20-25 :
In the Gospel of Matthew, the prediction occurs during the Last Supper. As Jesus and His disciples recline at the table, He reveals, "Truly I tell you, one of you will betray Me" (Matthew 26:21). The disciples are deeply distressed and begin to question, "Surely not I, Lord?" (Matthew 26:22). Jesus responds, "The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with Me will betray Me" (Matthew 26:23). He further states, "The Son of Man will go just as it is written about Him. But woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would be better for him if he had not been born" (Matthew 26:24). Judas Iscariot, the betrayer, then asks, "Surely not I, Rabbi?" to which Jesus replies, "You have said it yourself" (Matthew 26:25).

Mark 14:17-21 :
Mark's account parallels Matthew's, emphasizing the gravity of the moment. As they eat, Jesus declares, "Truly I tell you, one of you who is eating with Me will betray Me" (Mark 14:18). The disciples are troubled and each asks, "Surely not I?" (Mark 14:19). Jesus identifies the betrayer as "one of the Twelve—the one who is dipping his bread into the bowl with Me" (Mark 14:20). He reiterates the inevitability of His fate and the dire consequences for His betrayer (Mark 14:21).

Luke 22:21-23 :
In Luke's Gospel, Jesus' prediction is succinct yet poignant. During the meal, He states, "But look, the hand of My betrayer is with Mine on the table" (Luke 22:21). He acknowledges that the Son of Man will go as determined, but pronounces woe upon the betrayer (Luke 22:22). The disciples begin to question among themselves who might be capable of such an act (Luke 22:23).

John 13:21-30 :
John provides a more detailed narrative, capturing the emotional depth of the moment. Jesus, troubled in spirit, announces, "Truly, truly, I tell you, one of you will betray Me" (John 13:21). The disciples are perplexed, and Peter motions to John, the beloved disciple, to inquire further. Jesus indicates the betrayer by giving a piece of dipped bread to Judas Iscariot (John 13:26). After receiving the bread, Satan enters Judas, and Jesus instructs him, "What you are about to do, do quickly" (John 13:27). The other disciples remain unaware of the significance of this exchange, assuming Judas is being sent on an errand (John 13:28-29). Judas then departs into the night (John 13:30).

Theological Significance:
The prediction of His betrayal underscores Jesus' omniscience and the fulfillment of Scripture. It reveals the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Jesus' awareness of His impending betrayal and His willingness to embrace it reflect His obedience to the Father's will and His commitment to the redemptive plan. The event also serves as a poignant reminder of the frailty of human loyalty and the profound cost of sin. Judas' betrayal, though foreknown, is a tragic act of free will, illustrating the depths of human depravity and the necessity of Christ's sacrificial atonement.