John 13:31

“Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.”

Context:John 13:31 is part of a larger passage that describes the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. In this chapter, Jesus shares the Last Supper with His disciples and performs the act of washing their feet, demonstrating humility and servanthood. During this meal, Jesus also predicts His betrayal by Judas Iscariot.

Significance of Jesus’ Departure:The verse begins by stating, “Therefore, when he was gone out.” Here, “he” refers to Judas Iscariot, who had left the gathering to betray Jesus. The departure of Judas sets the stage for Jesus’ following statement.

The Son of Man Glorified:Jesus declares, “Now is the Son of man glorified.” This statement may initially seem surprising, given the impending suffering and death that Jesus would soon endure on the cross. However, Jesus speaks of His glorification in terms of the greater purpose it serves. His death and resurrection would manifest God’s redemptive plan for humanity, showcasing His love, grace, and power. Through His sacrifice, Jesus would defeat sin and death, ultimately bringing glory to God.

God is Glorified in Him:The second part of the verse states, “and God is glorified in him.” Jesus’ glorification on the cross would not only bring honor to Himself but also bring glory to God the Father. In Jesus’ act of sacrificial love, God’s character and divine plan for salvation are revealed. Through Jesus, God’s glory is magnified, for He demonstrates His righteousness, mercy, and grace.

Application:As followers of Jesus, this verse reminds us of the significance of His sacrifice and the resulting glory bestowed upon God. It calls us to reflect on the depth of God’s love and the redemptive work accomplished through Christ. Jesus’ words challenge us to live in a manner that glorifies God, imitating His sacrificial love and demonstrating His character to the world.

• In summary:John 13:31 captures a pivotal moment in Jesus’ journey towards the cross, highlighting the purpose and meaning behind His impending glorification. It emphasizes the redemptive plan of God and encourages believers to live in a way that brings glory to Him.