New Testament
John 13:2
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During supper, the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him.
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And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him;
What John 13:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a pivotal moment during the Last Supper, where the devil influences Judas Iscariot to betray Jesus. This act of betrayal is significant as it sets in motion the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion. The phrase 'put it into the heart' suggests that Judas was not merely acting on his own but was being manipulated by evil forces. This highlights the spiritual battle that exists, where individuals can be swayed by temptation and malice. Judas, one of Jesus' closest followers, succumbs to this temptation, illustrating how even those who are near to the truth can fall away. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance against negative influences and the need for a strong moral compass. It also foreshadows the deep betrayal that will unfold, emphasizing the gravity of Judas's choice and the profound implications it has for the narrative of redemption in the Christian faith.
How to apply John 13:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to be aware of the influences in our lives. Just as Judas was tempted, we too face choices that can lead us away from our values. Staying connected to our faith and seeking guidance can help us resist negative influences and make better decisions.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Washing the Disciples' Feet (John 13:1–30)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 13:2 mean?
John 13:2 describes a critical moment during the Last Supper where Judas Iscariot is influenced by the devil to betray Jesus. This highlights the theme of temptation and the spiritual struggle that can lead individuals to make harmful choices.
What is the significance of Judas in John 13:2?
In John 13:2, Judas Iscariot represents the danger of betrayal and the impact of evil influence. His decision to betray Jesus, despite being one of His closest followers, illustrates how even those near to goodness can be swayed by darker forces.
What does 'put it into the heart' mean in John 13:2?
The phrase 'put it into the heart' in John 13:2 suggests that Judas was not acting solely on his own desires but was being manipulated by the devil. It emphasizes the idea that external influences can lead individuals to make poor choices.
How can we apply John 13:2 to our lives?
John 13:2 encourages us to be mindful of the influences around us and to stay grounded in our values. By recognizing the potential for temptation, we can seek guidance and make choices that align with our beliefs.
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