John – Chapter 13:20-38
v. 18-20 “I do not speak concerning all of you” – A new transition introduced Judas as the betrayer, echoing v. 11. “That the Scripture may be fulfilled” does not mean Jesus chose Judas to fulfill Scripture but rather “this happened/had to happen, so that…” The citation is from Psalm 41:9 and shows the treachery and faithless nature of His deed, forsaking an intimate fellowship. Jesus tells them all in anticipation that they not lose faith but confirm that Jesus knows what awaits Him. This theme recurs throughout (14:29; 16:1, 4, 32, 33) regarding similar Old Testament texts (Ezk. 24:24; Is. 43:10; 46:10). Citing these texts beforehand provides “the means of escape” from the temptation to believe he is not the Christ, the Son of God (20:31). v. 21 “One of you will betray me” – While this is the first announcement, the betrayal has been anticipated repeatedly (6:64, 70, 71; 12:4; 13:2, 11, 18ff). The time has come and there is no longer room for the hidden betrayer. This isn’t callous or cruel but puts Jesus into a profound state of agitation (see also 11:33, 38; 12:27). v. 22-24 – In the Synoptics, the identity remains hidden, “Is it I, rabbi?” spoken by Judas. What is important here is “one of you”,” meaning one of the Twelve. “At the breast of Jesus” is not only the place of honor but also allows the Evangelist to converse privately. While Jesus loved all His disciples (13:1, 15:9, etc.) and called them all friends, this one “whom Jesus loved” is perhaps a personal friend (11:5) or kinship (19:25f). Note that Peter asks this one to find out more. This close coordination happens later (18:15ff; 20:3ff). While Peter has a central place among the disciples, here we see that the Evangelist also holds a priority in the hierarchy of the Apostles. v. 25-27 “It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it” – Not only does Jesus disclose the identity of the betrayer, but makes the beloved disciple the witness. This action not only reveals Judas as betrayer be also sets in motion the events of his betrayal. Everything waiting fulfillment becomes real (Psalm 41, cf. vs 18). v. 28-29 “No one… knew” – Now the role of the beloved disciple is made evident. No one understood but he bears witness….