John 13:21-30 | Food for Thought
Notes
v.21: “After saying these things…” = a good reason to go back and remember what happened last week (John 13:1-20).
v.21: “…Jesus was troubled in Spirit.” As in 12:27, John uses a strong verb that “signifies revulsion, horror, anxiety, agitation” (Carson commentary). Jesus wasn’t just a little nervous about what was about to happen; he was facing his betrayal, abandonment, scourging, and crucifixion with eyes wide open.
v.23: “One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved…” = John, the author of the book!
v.27: “…Satan entered [Judas].” Last week, we saw that “the devil had already put it into the heart [of Judas] …to betray him.” But now, Satan himself “entered” into Judas - a more intimate, invasive, and direct means of the enemy seeking to put a stop to the Messiah.
Questions
Jesus was troubled in his spirit. What was it that troubled him?
Is it hard or strange to think about Jesus being “troubled in spirit?” What does this tell you about him? What does this tell you about the way he can relate with us?
Jesus’ troubled spirit and words about betrayal left them confused. How did they respond to Jesus? Do you think you would’ve reacted similarly?
After Jesus secretly revealed the betrayer to John, Satan entered Judas, and Jesus urged Judas to leave and get it over with. Does this strike you as odd? Jesus, with a troubled spirit, knew the plan, had the culprit in the room, and could’ve easily asked a room full of his followers to apprehend the suspect. But he doesn’t. What does this tell you about Jesus?
What does this say about the ultimate enemy of Jesus?
What was Satan’s plan? What did he think his plan would accomplish?
All the while, how did Jesus treat Judas while at this supper? Reflect on how he related with Judas (last week and this week), despite knowing he was going to betray him.
We don’t see Jesus treat Satan or demons with the same dignity, grace, and respect as Judas. Why do you think that is? How are Judas and Satan different?
Jesus’ disciples were still in the dark about Judas’ plan. They assumed Jesus was encouraging him as “the treasurer” to take care of something with the poor, run an errand, or get something ready. The Feast of Unleavened Bread was the next day, and the Sabbath was the day after that, so there was work to be done in advance. However, Jesus let them stay in the dark. What do you think about that?
Are you comfortable knowing that there are some things we assume that we’re just plain wrong about? Are you okay with knowing Jesus is allowing some things to happen, making other things happen, and keeping details “close to the chest” that you don’t know?
While we may not know all the details (or get some of the details wrong!), how can we be comforted by knowing the big picture of Jesus’ plans? …by his nature and his character?