One of the most agonizing things a person may go through is being betrayed by a friend. Since friendship is based on honesty, love, and devotion, the pain of betrayed trust is more profound than most other hurts. When a loved one decides to be dishonest or disloyal, it leaves behind sorrow, heartache, and even bewilderment. Since betrayal is a bitter reality that affects many believers’ lives, the Bible does not shy away from discussing it.
Stories of treachery reverberate throughout the lives of God’s people, both in the Old and New Testaments. David was duped by friends he trusted, Joseph was betrayed by his own brothers, and—most importantly—Jesus was betrayed by Judas, one of His closest followers. These bible verses about betrayal by friends serve as a reminder that betrayal is not a recent phenomenon; it has existed throughout human history for many millennia. However, God utilizes these times to mold people’s hearts and impart lessons about forgiving others, being resilient, and having faith in Him.
When it comes to dealing with friend betrayal, the Bible offers consolation and perspective. It points us in the direction of recovery and optimism while acknowledging the profound sadness such events cause. Scripture serves as a reminder that God never deserts His children, even in the face of desertion or deception. His unwavering devotion offers the stability that human partnerships frequently fall short of. We can learn how to deal with betrayal and let God’s grace bring us back to peace by thinking about these verses.
This compilation of 35 potent Bible passages on friends betraying you provides support and direction. Every verse provides guidance on how to react with discernment, forgiveness, and faith. These Scriptures will serve as a reminder that God is always with you and understands your grief, regardless of whether you are still healing from past traumas, dealing with betrayal, or looking for the strength to regain trust. His Word gives us the courage to forgive and the fortitude to persevere.
35 Powerful Bible Verses About Betrayal By Friends in 2025
1. Psalm 41:9
“Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.”
This verse captures the piercing pain of betrayal from someone deeply trusted. David expresses sorrow over a close companion who betrayed him despite their bond of fellowship. The words reflect how devastating betrayal is when it comes from within trusted circles. It reminds us that Jesus also experienced betrayal from Judas, showing that no believer is alone in such pain. God understands and brings healing when trust is shattered.
2. Proverbs 25:9-10
“If you take your neighbor to court, do not betray another’s confidence, or the one who hears it may shame you and the charge against you will stand.”
This verse emphasizes the seriousness of keeping confidences. Betrayal often begins with revealing secrets or misusing trust. Scripture warns that such actions bring shame not only to the betrayer but also damage relationships and reputations. It reminds us that loyalty and integrity must guide friendships. True companionship values confidentiality, while betrayal spreads division. For those who have been betrayed, God assures justice and reminds us to remain steadfast in our character despite others’ actions.
3. Micah 7:5-6
“Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend. Even with the woman who lies in your embrace guard the words of your lips.”
This sobering passage highlights a time when betrayal was so prevalent that even close relationships could not be fully trusted. It reflects the brokenness of humanity and how sin corrupts trust. The verse warns believers to exercise wisdom and discernment in relationships. Though betrayal may come from unexpected places, God calls us to rely on Him for ultimate security. He remains faithful even when human loyalty fails.
4. Matthew 26:14-15
“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 deliver him over to you?’ So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver.”
This verse records the infamous betrayal of Jesus by Judas. For money, Judas chose to betray the Savior, showing how greed can corrupt the heart and destroy trust. Betrayal is often rooted in selfishness and misplaced desires. Yet, even through Judas’ act, God fulfilled His plan of salvation. This reminds us that while betrayal is painful, God can still bring good from it. His purpose always prevails, even in moments of deep treachery.
5. Luke 22:47-48
“While he was still speaking a crowd came up, and the man who was called Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him, but Jesus asked him, ‘Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?’”
This moment illustrates betrayal’s deepest sting—disguised as affection. Judas used a kiss, a symbol of closeness, to identify Jesus to His enemies. The contrast highlights how betrayal often comes cloaked in false gestures of love. It shows how deceptive appearances can be and reminds believers to remain discerning. Even in betrayal, Jesus’ composure reveals strength and grace. We can follow His example by not letting deceit shake our faith in God’s truth.
6. Job 19:19
“All my intimate friends detest me; those I love have turned against me.”
Job’s lament reveals the crushing loneliness of betrayal. Already suffering loss and physical pain, Job also experienced abandonment by those he trusted. This verse shows that betrayal compounds suffering, intensifying grief. Yet Job’s story reminds us that God never abandoned him, even when friends did. When we feel deserted or despised by those we love, we can find comfort in God’s unchanging presence and His promise never to forsake us.
7. Psalm 55:12-14
“If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God, as we walked about among the worshipers.”
David vividly describes the piercing wound of betrayal by a friend. He explains that betrayal hurts most when it comes from someone close, not an enemy. Shared worship and fellowship made the treachery even more painful. This passage helps believers process the unique heartbreak of being betrayed by someone trusted. Yet it also points us to God, who remains faithful. His love never falters, even when human loyalty fails.
8. Matthew 24:10
“At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other.”
Jesus warned that in times of tribulation, betrayal would become common, even among believers. This prophecy highlights the reality of fractured relationships in a broken world. Betrayal often arises when faith is tested, revealing hearts not anchored in God. For Christians, this verse encourages vigilance and endurance. Though betrayal may come, our hope must remain in Christ. His words prepare us for trials and remind us that perseverance leads to eternal reward.
9. John 13:18
“I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill this passage of Scripture: ‘He who shared my bread has turned against me.’”
Here, Jesus acknowledges Judas’ betrayal before it happens, fulfilling prophecy from the Psalms. His awareness demonstrates that betrayal did not catch Him by surprise but was part of God’s redemptive plan. This verse reassures us that even in betrayal, God’s sovereignty remains intact. Nothing can derail His purposes. For believers, it is comforting to know that while betrayal wounds deeply, God can turn it into an instrument for greater good.
10. Zechariah 13:6
“If someone asks, ‘What are these wounds on your body?’ they will answer, ‘The wounds I was given at the house of my friends.’”
This prophetic verse foreshadows betrayal and suffering at the hands of friends. It reflects the reality that betrayal often comes from within circles of trust rather than enemies outside. The imagery of wounds makes betrayal’s pain vivid and lasting. Yet, it also echoes the wounds of Christ, who suffered betrayal and death for humanity’s sake. Believers can take comfort knowing Christ understands betrayal and offers healing through His sacrifice.
11. John 13:21
“After he had said this, Jesus was troubled in spirit and testified, ‘Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me.’”
This verse reveals the emotional weight betrayal brings, even to Jesus. Though He knew Judas’ heart, the announcement grieved Him deeply. Betrayal cuts to the core because it involves broken trust from someone close. Jesus’ response shows us that even the Son of God felt the sting of treachery. It reminds believers that God understands their pain intimately and will provide the strength to endure such heartbreaking moments.
12. Matthew 10:21
“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death.”
Jesus warns that betrayal will reach even into family ties during times of persecution. The verse reveals the depth of broken trust when loyalty to Christ divides households. Betrayal from family can be among the most devastating, yet it also reminds believers that following Jesus requires ultimate allegiance to Him above all else. God calls His people to endure, knowing He rewards faithfulness even when earthly relationships crumble.
13. 2 Samuel 15:12
“While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he also sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, to come from Giloh, his hometown. And so the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept on increasing.”
This verse describes Ahithophel’s betrayal of King David during Absalom’s rebellion. As a trusted advisor, Ahithophel’s defection cut deeply, intensifying David’s trials. It shows how betrayal often involves personal ambition, pride, or greed. David’s suffering reflects how even God’s chosen leaders are not immune to treachery. Yet it also reminds us that God sees and delivers the righteous from betrayal’s schemes, ultimately ensuring that His purposes cannot be thwarted by human disloyalty.
14. John 18:5
“‘Jesus of Nazareth,’ they replied. ‘I am he,’ Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.)”
The presence of Judas among those arresting Jesus highlights the shocking reality of betrayal. Once a disciple, Judas now stood aligned with Christ’s enemies. This verse underscores how betrayal often involves standing with those who oppose God’s truth. It is a sober reminder of how quickly loyalty can be broken when hearts are hardened. For believers, it reinforces the importance of steadfast devotion and recognizing that Christ remains faithful despite human treachery.
15. Obadiah 1:7
“All your allies will force you to the border; your friends will deceive and overpower you; those who eat your bread will set a trap for you, but you will not detect it.”
This verse addresses Edom’s downfall, showing how betrayal can come even from supposed allies. It illustrates the deceitful nature of betrayal, which often strikes when least expected. The imagery of friends setting traps after sharing bread reflects treachery within trusted relationships. It warns believers against placing ultimate confidence in human alliances. Instead, we are to rely on God, whose loyalty never wavers and whose protection covers us from betrayal’s snares.
16. Mark 14:44
“Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: ‘The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.’”
This verse recounts Judas’ scheme to identify Jesus with a kiss. The use of such a gesture makes the betrayal more painful, as affection was twisted into treachery. It shows how betrayal is often masked by outward friendliness, making it more devastating. For believers, it serves as a reminder to discern carefully and trust in God above human displays of loyalty. Even when betrayed, Christ’s example teaches us to face it with courage and resolve.
17. Psalm 55:20-21
“My companion attacks his friends; he violates his covenant. His talk is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.”
This verse describes the dual nature of betrayal: deceptive words covering malicious intent. Betrayal often appears with charm and smooth speech, masking the treachery beneath. David expresses the pain of realizing his companion’s words were empty. It reminds believers that not all who speak kindly have true hearts. Yet God calls His people to lean on Him for discernment and to guard their hearts against deceit while walking in integrity themselves.
18. Matthew 26:16
“From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.”
Judas’ betrayal was not impulsive but deliberate. This verse shows the calculated nature of treachery, as he actively looked for a chance to hand Jesus over. Betrayal often involves planning and persistence, making it more grievous. Yet this verse also reminds us that even the schemes of betrayal cannot derail God’s plan. Christ willingly endured betrayal for humanity’s salvation, proving that God’s purposes triumph over even the darkest intentions.
19. Luke 21:16
“You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death.”
Jesus warns His followers of the cost of discipleship, including betrayal by those closest. This verse highlights how loyalty to Christ can provoke division, leading even to betrayal by loved ones. While painful, it calls believers to stand firm in faith, knowing eternal life awaits. It reminds us that Christ understands betrayal’s sting and strengthens His followers to endure even when relationships fracture under the weight of allegiance to Him.
20. John 16:1-2
“All this I have told you so that you will not fall away. They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God.”
Jesus prepared His disciples for betrayal and persecution, reminding them to remain steadfast. This verse shows that betrayal can be cloaked in false righteousness, with people believing their harmful actions serve God. It underscores the danger of misplaced zeal and the pain it causes. Yet Jesus’ words bring comfort, assuring believers that He forewarned them, so their faith would not falter. Betrayal may come, but Christ sustains His people through it.
21. John 6:70-71
“Then Jesus replied, ‘Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!’ (He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who, though one of the Twelve, was later to betray him.)”
This passage shows Jesus’ awareness of Judas’ betrayal long before it happened. It emphasizes that betrayal often arises even among trusted groups. Despite Judas’ position, his heart was corrupt. For believers, this verse is a reminder that appearances can be deceiving. Even those close to us may harbor hidden motives, but God is never surprised. He equips us to endure betrayal while remaining anchored in His truth and grace.
22. Jeremiah 12:6
“Your relatives, members of your own family—even they have betrayed you; they have raised a loud cry against you. Do not trust them, though they speak well of you.”
God warns Jeremiah about betrayal from his own family, revealing how treachery can come from those closest by blood. Even when their words sound pleasant, their actions reveal deception. This verse acknowledges the deep pain of familial betrayal, a wound that often cuts the deepest. It encourages believers to place ultimate trust in God, not in people, because His loyalty is perfect and unshakable, even when human faithfulness collapses.
23. Mark 14:18
“While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, ‘Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me.’”
Here Jesus foretells His betrayal at the Last Supper, emphasizing that it would come from someone sharing His table. Betrayal is most painful when it comes from trusted companions, not strangers. The act of eating together symbolized closeness and trust, making the treachery even more shocking. For believers, this verse illustrates the reality of betrayal but also the sovereignty of God, who uses even the darkest moments to fulfill His redemptive plan.
24. Luke 22:21
“But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table.”
Jesus highlights the shocking closeness of His betrayer, Judas, who shared His table and meal. This verse underscores the bitter sting of betrayal, which often comes from those nearest to us. It demonstrates how appearances of friendship may mask hidden motives. Yet Jesus’ calm acknowledgment shows His willingness to endure betrayal as part of God’s plan. Believers can take courage, knowing that God remains in control even when trust is broken.
25. Matthew 26:25
“Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, ‘Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?’ Jesus answered, ‘You have said so.’”
This verse reveals Judas’ hypocrisy as he pretended innocence while plotting betrayal. His words show how betrayal often hides behind false appearances and deceitful speech. Jesus, however, saw through Judas’ mask, proving that God discerns every heart. For believers, this is a reminder that betrayal may be cloaked in false humility or denial, but God’s truth always exposes it. His wisdom enables us to navigate relationships with discernment and grace.
26. Psalm 27:12
“Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations.”
David pleads for God’s protection against betrayal through lies and false testimony. Betrayal often comes not only through broken trust but also through slander that damages reputation. This verse reminds us that God hears the cries of the innocent and delivers His people from false accusations. Believers can trust that while betrayal seeks to harm, God’s justice will prevail, and His truth will vindicate those who remain faithful to Him.
27. Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This proverb distinguishes between constructive correction and false affection. While true friends may cause pain by speaking hard truths, betrayal disguises itself with flattery. The verse warns against misplaced trust in people who appear friendly but lack sincerity. It encourages believers to value honest friends who correct in love while being cautious of those whose actions conceal betrayal. God provides wisdom to discern genuine loyalty from deceptive appearances.
28. Lamentations 1:2
“Bitterly she weeps at night, tears are on her cheeks. Among all her lovers there is no one to comfort her. All her friends have betrayed her; they have become her enemies.”
This verse portrays Jerusalem’s grief, abandoned and betrayed by her supposed allies. It reflects the deep sorrow of betrayal, where trusted relationships transform into enmity. For believers, it illustrates the emptiness of relying on unfaithful companions. Human relationships may falter, but God remains the ultimate source of comfort. Even in seasons of abandonment, His love and presence provide strength, healing, and restoration when betrayal leaves us brokenhearted.
29. Psalm 109:4-5
“In return for my friendship they accuse me, but I am a man of prayer. They repay me evil for good, and hatred for my friendship.”
David laments the cruelty of betrayal, where kindness is met with hostility. His response, however, is to turn to prayer rather than revenge. This verse teaches believers that betrayal should drive us closer to God rather than hardening our hearts. Though friends may repay good with evil, God sees our faithfulness and answers the prayers of the betrayed. His justice ensures that those who wrongfully betray will face accountability.
30. Psalm 35:11
“Ruthless witnesses come forward; they question me on things I know nothing about.”
Here David speaks of betrayal through false testimony. Such treachery often compounds pain by turning lies into weapons. This verse reminds us that betrayal is not always physical—it can be verbal, destroying trust and reputation. For believers, it affirms the importance of relying on God as the ultimate judge. Though people may twist words and spread deceit, God’s truth endures, and His righteousness will vindicate those who suffer injustice.
31. Psalm 55:16-17
“As for me, I call to God, and the Lord saves me. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.”
After lamenting betrayal, David turns to God in prayer. This passage demonstrates the right response to betrayal—not retaliation, but seeking God’s comfort and deliverance. It assures believers that God hears the cries of the brokenhearted at all times. When betrayal wounds deeply, prayer becomes the channel for healing and restoration. God not only listens but also saves, reminding us that His faithfulness outweighs human treachery.
32. Matthew 26:50
“Jesus replied, ‘Do what you came for, friend.’ Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.”
Even in betrayal, Jesus addressed Judas as “friend,” demonstrating compassion and restraint. This moment teaches believers how to respond with grace, even when wronged. Betrayal often stirs anger and bitterness, yet Jesus chose composure and forgiveness. His example reminds us that love can be shown even to those who betray us. God calls us to rise above pain and extend His mercy, trusting Him to handle justice in His time.
33. Judges 16:18
“When Delilah saw that he had told her everything, she sent word to the rulers of the Philistines, ‘Come back once more; he has told me everything.’ So the rulers of the Philistines returned with the silver in their hands.”
Delilah’s betrayal of Samson shows how greed and manipulation lead to treachery. Samson’s trust was exploited, resulting in his downfall. This verse highlights how betrayal often stems from selfish motives, where loyalty is sacrificed for personal gain. For believers, it warns against misplaced trust and encourages seeking wisdom in relationships. God calls His people to discernment, knowing that while betrayal may wound, His strength restores and redeems the betrayed.
34. Psalm 118:8
“It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans.”
This verse emphasizes where ultimate security lies. Human relationships are fragile, vulnerable to betrayal and failure. But God offers perfect refuge, never failing His people. It reminds believers not to place absolute trust in people but to anchor their hope in God’s unwavering faithfulness. Even when friends betray us, God’s love sustains and protects us. His refuge is a safe place where betrayal cannot overcome His promises.
35. Romans 12:19
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
This verse provides guidance for responding to betrayal. Instead of seeking revenge, believers are called to trust God’s justice. Betrayal naturally stirs a desire for retaliation, but Scripture directs us to release that burden to the Lord. He alone judges righteously and will repay according to His perfect timing. Choosing forgiveness over vengeance reflects Christ’s example and frees us from bitterness, allowing God’s peace to rule in our hearts.
Conclusion
Friendship betrayal leaves a trace that is difficult to remove. The Bible recognizes this suffering by demonstrating that even the most devoted servants of God, such as David, Joseph, and even Jesus, suffered betrayal. These incidents serve as a reminder that, although it is a natural part of life, betrayal does not have the last say. Even the most agonizing situations are used by God to strengthen our faith, bring us nearer to Him, and serve as a reminder of His unwavering loyalty. We can take comfort in knowing that the Lord would never desert or forsake us, even if friends hurt us.
These lines encourage us to find strength in prayer, insight in discernment, and healing in forgiveness, in addition to acknowledging the hurt of betrayal. They exhort us to react with faith rather than retaliation, believing that God will deal with justice in His own time. Christ teaches us how to accept betrayal without allowing it to harden our hearts. Rather, we are urged to hold fast to our love and rely on the One who is completely aware of the anguish of betrayal.
In the end, friend betrayal presents a chance for spiritual development. It serves as a reminder to put our ultimate reliance in God, whose fidelity never wavers, rather than in other people. His pledges are unwavering, even when human allegiance can falter. The Bible shows that while betrayal causes severe pain, it cannot separate a believer from God’s love or stop Him from accomplishing His goals. By putting our faith in Him, we are able to let go of our grudges and live in the freedom of forgiveness, knowing that God is our constant friend and our haven.
