What does John 13:21 mean?

Explanation

John 13:21 presents a dramatic moment in the New Testament, wherein Jesus openly expresses a deep disturbance in His spirit.

The agitation Jesus feels is not just emotional but is tied to His omniscient awareness of the impending betrayal by one of His own disciples.

The repeated phrase "Verily, verily" (translated as "Truly, truly" in some versions) is used by Jesus to emphasize the certainty and grave importance of His statement.

The use of the term "testified" underscores that this pronouncement is both a divine revelation and a solemn declaration.

The declaration that one among them will betray Him is profound, indicating a breach of trust and a fulfillment of prophetic scripture.

Historical Context

The verse is set during the Last Supper, which is the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion, as described in the Gospel of John. During this time, Jesus is preparing His disciples for His imminent departure from the world.

The cultural and religious backdrop includes the Jewish Passover, a festival commemorating the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery.

The atmosphere would have already been charged with themes of liberation and sacrifice, which coincide with the deeper significance of Jesus's own mission and the foretelling of His betrayal.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse touches on various elements such as foreknowledge (Jesus' awareness of future events), the human condition (betrayal by a close associate), and the fulfillment of prophecy (as foretold in scripture, such as in Psalm 41:9).

Different theological perspectives might dwell on the idea of predestination versus free will, where Judas' act of betrayal could be seen as a preordained part of God's plan for salvation or as an example of human agency leading to sin.

Practical Applications

The verse invites reflection on the nature of loyalty and the pain of betrayal in human relationships.

On a personal level, it encourages individuals to consider the importance of trust and integrity in their actions.

It also serves as a reminder that even in the face of impending betrayal, loving and serving others (as Jesus did) remains paramount.

Cross-References

• 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."
• Matthew 26:21-23: "And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me."
• Luke 22:21-22: "But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table."

Language Study

In the original Greek text of John 13:21, key words can be noted:

• "τετάρακται" (tetarakatai): translated as "was troubled," indicating a deep internal commotion or agitation.
• "μαρτυρεῖ" (martyrei): often translated as "testified," has connotations of bearing witness or giving evidence, reinforcing the gravity of Jesus' declaration.
• "παραδώσει" (paradōsei): this future tense form of "betray" is significant because it indicates an event that will certainly transpire.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The notion of betrayal by a close companion appears in other cultural and religious narratives.

For example, in Greek mythology, the story of Jason and Medea involves betrayal.

In Hinduism, the epic Mahabharata also features themes of betrayal among relatives and friends.

These tales often serve to illustrate moral lessons regarding trust and honor.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives are less applicable to this verse as it deals primarily with human emotions, interpersonal relationships, and divine foreknowledge.

However, psychological studies on betrayal and its impact on individuals and groups can provide insight into the human experience depicted here.

Commentaries

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the sorrow Jesus felt due to the betrayal, noting it as a testament to His humanity and capacity for emotional pain.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses the mixture of divine foreknowledge and human free will, exploring how Jesus' foretelling of the betrayal coexists with the disciple's personal responsibility.
• John Calvin’s Commentary underlines the betrayal's fulfillment of Scripture, and how Jesus' foreknowledge displayed His divinity and control over the situation despite human disobedience.