What does John 13:11 mean?

Explanation

John 13:11 refers to an event that occurred during the Last Supper, the final meal that Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion.

In the broader context, John 13 describes Jesus washing the feet of his disciples, an act of humility and service.

When Jesus said, "Ye are not all clean," He was speaking on two levels.

Literally, He was referring to the physical cleanliness of the disciples since He had just washed their feet.

On a deeper level, Jesus was alluding to the spiritual cleanliness (or lack thereof) of His disciples, particularly highlighting the presence of a betrayer among them.

The phrase "for he knew who should betray him" directly points to Judas Iscariot, who would soon betray Jesus, leading to His arrest and ultimately, His crucification.

Historical Context

The Gospel of John was written in a period of emerging Christian theology and increasing separation from Judaism.

The washing of the feet would have been understood within the context of first-century hospitality customs, where washing a guest's feet was a common practice due to the dusty roads and the wearing of sandals.

By performing this service, Jesus was teaching his disciples about humility and serving others.

The reference to Judas' betrayal reflects the reality that early Christians were grappling with: the fact that one of Jesus' closest followers had turned against him.

Theological Insights

Theologically, the phrase "Ye are not all clean" underscores the doctrine of original sin and the need for spiritual cleansing.

It highlights the idea that deeds alone (like the feet washing) cannot purify one's soul; it requires faith and sincerity of heart, which Judas lacked.

The passage serves as a narrative precursor to the betrayal, setting the stage for the events of the Passion Week.

It points to Jesus’ omniscience, as He was aware of Judas' impending betrayal, and it underscores the human condition of sinfulness, even among those close to Christ.

Practical Applications

From this verse, there is a challenge for self-examination and reflection on one's sincerity of faith and commitment to Christ.

It teaches the importance of inner purity and the danger of harboring deceitful intentions.

In daily life, individuals can take away the message of serving others with humility and the critical value of honesty in one's actions and alignment of action with inner beliefs.

Cross-References

• John 6:64: "But there are some of you that believe not.

For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him."

• John 13:18: "I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me."
• Psalm 41:9: "Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me."

Language Study

In the original Koine Greek, the term used for "clean" is "καθαρος" (katharos), which can mean physically clean but is often used metaphorically for purity and freedom from sin.

The phrase "knew who should betray him" uses the Greek word for knowing, "ειδεν" (eiden), which here suggests a deeper, foreknowledge rather than simple awareness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The act of foot washing as a sign of hospitality can be found in various ancient cultures, including Near Eastern and Greco-Roman societies.

In a religious comparison, some branches of Buddhism emphasize knowing the nature of one's own mind, being aware of betrayal or deception within, which is somewhat paralleled in Jesus' knowledge of Judas' intent.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology might contribute to understanding this scenario, as it studies betrayal and trust within close relationships.

Jesus’ knowledge of Judas' future action could be seen as an insight into human behavior.

There is also interesting work on the nature of group dynamics and the phenomenon of how a group can contain someone who is - metaphorically or literally - not "clean" or aligned with the group's purpose or values.

Commentaries

Commentaries on John 13:11 often discuss the dual meaning of cleanliness and how Jesus used a common practice for teaching profound truths. They may emphasize Jesus’ role as a servant-leader and the dramatic irony of Jesus serving the one who would betray Him.

Scholars also explore Judas' mindset and his place in the larger narrative of the Gospel and salvation history. There is often a focus on the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through Jesus' foreknowledge and the events of the Last Supper.