Jesus Prediction of His Betrayal

No treachery is worse than betrayal by a family member or friend. Julius Caesar knew such treachery. Among the conspirators who assassinated the Roman leader on March 15, 44 B. C. was Marcus Julius Brutus. Caesar not only trusted Brutus, he had favored him as a son. According to … More

Betrayal

In this passage, Christ told His disciples to brace themselves because He was leaving. He clearly stated that one of the disciples would betray Him (vv. 21-22). The disciples were shocked in amazement and looked at each other in disbelief (v. 23). Simon Peter, the leader of the twelve, wanted to deal with the traitor. He motioned for John, who was seated next to Jesus to ask, “Who is it?” (v. 24). Jesus did not identify this traitor by name but stated that He would give the sop to the betrayer (vv. 25-26). Sop was a piece of bread dipped in sauce, usually given as a token of friendship which shows that the Lord loved Judas even in betrayal.

Satan then entered into Judas and took full possession of him. Jesus told him whatever he was going to do, to do it quickly (v. 27). It is apparent that the disciples did not understand what Jesus was saying or what Judas was doing (v. 28). Christ had addressed His statement about the sop to John, and consequently, he was the only one who understood its implications. Perhaps the other disciples simply thought that since Judas was the treasurer, he was going out to buy some food for the Passover (v. 29). Jesus had very plainly identified Judas. However, many of the disciples seemed to still be oblivious to his treachery (v. 29). The people heard but did not understand. They assumed that an angel had spoken to Him.

 

As Judas went out from them to betray Jesus, it was night, and he was surrounded by darkness (v. 30). This symbolizes the evil and sin surrounding the action of Judas. The instant Judas was gone, the atmosphere changed, and Jesus began to instruct His disciples to prepare them for His crucifixion and His return to heaven.

 

Application

One of the things that impresses me the most about Jesus is how He prepared His disciples and related to Judas. What can I apply from this passage in my dealing with people?

John 13:21-30 (English Standard Version)


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