Prophecy fulfilled

(1) Peter mentions in verse 16 that “the Holy Spirit foretold by the mouth of David concerning Judas,” which shows that Peter believed in the inspiration of the Scriptures. He recognized the dual authorship of the words of God (the Holy Spirit and David). (2) Judas’ betrayal was the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy. Psalms 69:25 and 109:8 are cited beforehand. “The Scripture had to be fulfilled,” indicates the inevitability from God’s plan. Judas was appointed as one of the apostles, yet he betrayed Jesus.

Parenthetical Explanation

Next, Luke inserts a parenthetical explanation about Judas’ death, interrupting Peter’s speech: “Now this man acquired a field with the price of his wickedness, and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his intestines gushed out.” (1) Luke states that Judas purchased a field with the money he received for his betrayal, whereas in Matthew 27:3-10, it is the chief priests who buy the field. Is this a contradiction? This question can be resolved when interpreted in a Jewish context. If the offering is considered unrighteous wealth, it is usually returned to the donor. In Judas’ case, since he had already committed suicide, returning the money was not possible. Therefore, the chief priests bought the field with Judas’ money and put it to public use. (2) Luke writes that “he burst open in the middle and all his intestines gushed out.” However, Matthew 27:5 states, “And he threw the pieces of silver into the temple sanctuary and left; and he went away and hanged himself.” This apparent contradiction can also be resolved with a Jewish interpretation. A corpse was considered unclean and was not allowed to remain within the city walls overnight. Therefore, Judas’ body was thrown over the city walls into the Valley of Hinnom. The bursting open of his body and the spilling of his intestines were due to the impact of this fall. “And it became known to all the residents of Jerusalem; as a result that field was called Hakeldama in their own language, that is, Field of Blood.” This story became well-known throughout Jerusalem. People called the place “Field of Blood” (“Akeldama” in Aramaic) because it was purchased with blood-money, the price for Judas” betrayal. The parenthetical explanation ends here, and the narrative returns to Peter. God uses even the evil act of humans for His own plans. Foolish are those who oppose God. Wise are those who fear God.