What does John 6:70 mean?

Explanation

John 6:70 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, where Jesus Christ addresses His disciples, indicating His knowledge of the presence of a traitor among them.

This verse highlights Jesus’ omniscience – His all-knowing nature – and sets the stage for one of the most pivotal events in the Christian narrative, the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot.

When Jesus says, "Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?" He acknowledges that even though He purposefully selected each of His disciples, He is well aware that there is one (Judas Iscariot) whose intentions are evil or who is under the influence of Satan (the devil).

The term "devil" here is used metaphorically to describe the diabolical nature of the betrayal that Judas would eventually carry out. It foreshadows the act of betrayal that leads to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion.

The verse provides an example of how divine intent and human free will can coexist, as Jesus chose His disciples, knowing their destinies, yet each acted according to their own decisions.

This dichotomy serves as a subject of contemplation on the complexities of predestination and moral responsibility.

Historical Context

The Gospel of John was written in a period where the early Christian community was grappling with its identity and distinguishing itself from mainstream Judaism.

It is generally believed that the Gospel of John was written towards the end of the first century AD.

The verse occurs during the discourse that follows the feeding of the five thousand, a miracle that Jesus had performed, revealing His divine nature to the masses.

This was a time of growing tension, as Jesus’ teachings and miracles were drawing both followers and critics, escalating towards the culmination of His earthly ministry.

Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, is specifically identified as the one who would betray Jesus. In the society of that time, such a betrayal, especially of a teacher or rabbi by a disciple, was considered one of the most serious moral failings.

Theological Insights

There are several theological insights that can be drawn from John 6:70. One is the foreknowledge of God – the belief that God knows what will happen in the future. Here, Jesus, as the Son of God, indicates He knows Judas will betray Him.

A second insight concerns the nature of Jesus' selection of His disciples.

It suggests that the divine choice includes a knowledge of the individuals’ hearts and futures, but does not coerce their will.

Additionally, the use of the term "devil" to describe Judas before the act of betrayal might be interpreted to reflect a theological stance on the presence of evil in the world, even within the circle of those closest to Christ.

Practical Applications

John 6:70 offers several practical applications. It encourages self-reflection among believers to consider their own loyalty and intentions. It serves as a reminder of the possibility of betrayal and falsehood even in close relationships and communities.

Moreover, it teaches that awareness of others' actions should not lead to paranoia but to prudence and the understanding that ultimately, one's own character and actions are what can be controlled, not those of others.

Cross-References

• John 13:27: "And after the sop Satan entered into him.

Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly."

• Mark 14:21: "The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born."
• 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."
• Acts 1:17: "For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word translated as "devil" is "diabolos," which means slanderer, accuser, or betrayer.

It is the same word used in the New Testament to refer to Satan, the ultimate adversary and accuser.

The phrase “Have not I chosen (exelexamenos) you” highlights Jesus' active choice of His disciples, which in Greek implies a deliberate, discerning selection.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the cultural and religious context of the time, the notion of betrayal by one's own group was a significant moral failing.

Comparatively, in other ancient cultures, betrayal within one’s inner circle was also viewed as a severe breach of trust and often met with harsh consequences.

For instance, in Greek mythology, acts of betrayal by figures like Judas would often prompt a swift and dire response from the gods.

Comparing different religious interpretations, betrayal is universally seen as a grave sin or wrongdoing. In the Judaeo-Christian tradition, it echoes the betrayal in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve betray God's trust.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the study of betrayal and trust involves psychology and sociology.

Modern research on betrayal looks at its effects on relationships, social dynamics, trust-building, and reconciliation.

There is no direct scientific correlation with the specifics of John 6:70, but the verse touches upon the universally understood concepts of trust, betrayal, and their implications for group cohesion and personal relationships.

commentaries

Different Bible scholars and commentators have various interpretations of John 6:70.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary suggests that Christ knew of Judas' hypocrisy and wicked intentions from the beginning.

The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges notes the use of "devil" to indicate not mere opposition to Christ but active evil.

In William Barclay's Daily Study Bible, there is an emphasis on the tragic fact that Jesus’ betrayal came from one of His chosen companions.

These commentaries show a spectrum of views that all recognize the gravity of Judas' impending betrayal and the prophetic nature of Jesus' words.