Mark 14:20

And he answered and said unto them, It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish.

Mark 14:20 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the narrative surrounding Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples, which took place shortly before his crucifixion. In the preceding verse, the disciples are deeply grieved and begin to ask Jesus one by one, “Is it I?” In response, Jesus answers, identifying the betrayer as one of the twelve who is dipping with him in the dish.

Meaning

Jesus’ response highlights the tension and sorrow present in the room during the Last Supper. The act of sharing a meal together, including the symbolic act of dipping bread into a common dish, was a sign of intimacy and unity. Therefore, for one of the disciples to betray Jesus in such a context was a profound act of disloyalty. The identification is specific: the betrayer is one of the twelve, not a stranger, and is present at the table, sharing the dish with Jesus. This detail underscores the intimacy of the betrayal.

Biblical connections

This passage showcases Jesus’ foreknowledge of the events that would transpire. Even in the face of imminent betrayal, Jesus does not conceal the identity of the betrayer, but openly acknowledges it. The parallel account in Matthew 26:23 states, “He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me,” which directly corresponds to the action described in Mark 14:20.

Application

This verse serves as a reminder that Jesus, despite his divine nature, experienced the pain of betrayal and the emotions associated with it. It showcases his humanity and the depth of his love for his disciples, even in the face of their potential betrayal. Jesus’ sovereign awareness of the betrayal offers comfort: he is not caught off guard but is fully aware of what is to come, and he still chooses to share the meal with his disciples.

Reflection

Overall, Mark 14:20 is a poignant moment in the Last Supper narrative, underscoring the magnitude of Jesus’ impending betrayal and the weight of the emotional turmoil experienced by both Jesus and his disciples.