Matthew 27:3-5 and anticipated roles of church leaders to suicide among Christians in Africa

This study examines the dilemma surrounding Judas Iscariot’s suicide as depicted in Matt 27:3-5, analysing the implications of his actions in the Jewish and African contexts. It explores the motivations behind Judas’s betrayal of Jesus and the subsequent remorse that led to his suicide, highlighting the complexities of guilt, despair, and the consequences of betrayal. By drawing parallels between the biblical narrative of Judas Iscariot and modern-day suicide dilemmas, the study aims to contribute to existing knowledge as well as proffer feasible solution(s) to the problem of suicide in Africa. The historical-critical method of biblical exegesis and literary analysis method are applied in this study. The study focuses on the exegetical analysis of Matt 27:3-5 and application of its exegetical findings in African milieu. In addition, the role(s) of church leaders are carefully articulated through recommendations. The research emphasizes the need for church leaders to apply the text in order to support and equip the congregations to engage with challenges of despair and distress compassionately and effectively. The researchers are of the view that proper elucidation of the text and its absorption would encourage antidote to despair and facilitate interpersonal co-existence among people.