15: Judas, though despicable, was shrewd enough to realize that the chief priests lacked not ability, but opportunity, to catch Jesus. This is why his offer is to ‘deliver’ him. Judas may have figured that since they were bound to get him sometime either way, he could stand to make a profit this way. Judas was a thief, so any chance to make some extra money was inviting to him. Likely, he was also motivated by Jesus sharp rebuke. Beyond this, he surely realized that a Messiah who spoke of dying soon would not be promoting him to a place of affluence in an earthly kingdom anytime soon.
Thirty pieces of silver was the standard price for a slave. This shows that Judas was very willing to betray his Master. He did not drive a bargain, but settled for whatever he could get.
16: Judas actively looked for a chance to betray Christ. God’s timing is always perfect. Judas was, in fact, ultimately set into motion by Jesus’ words at the passover meal.