New Testament
John 13:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After saying this, Jesus was troubled in his spirit and testified, "Truly, truly, I tell you, one of you will betray me."
Compare translations
When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.
What John 13:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus reveals a deep emotional turmoil as he prepares for his impending betrayal. His spirit is troubled because he knows that one of his closest followers will turn against him. This moment highlights the gravity of betrayal and the pain it causes, even among friends. Jesus emphasizes the truth of his statement by saying 'truly, truly,' indicating the seriousness of the situation. The betrayal foreshadows the events leading to his crucifixion, showcasing the conflict between loyalty and treachery. This moment serves as a poignant reminder of the human capacity for betrayal, even in the context of love and friendship. Jesus' awareness of his impending suffering adds a layer of depth to his character, illustrating his humanity and the emotional weight he carries as he faces his destiny. This verse invites readers to reflect on the nature of trust and the impact of betrayal in their own lives.
How to apply John 13:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own relationships and the importance of loyalty. It reminds us that betrayal can occur even among those we trust the most. We should strive to be faithful and supportive to our friends, recognizing the weight of our actions and words.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Washing the Disciples' Feet (John 13:1–30)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about John 13:21
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying John 13:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 13:21 mean?
John 13:21 captures a moment of deep emotional distress for Jesus as he reveals that one of his disciples will betray him. This statement highlights the pain of betrayal among close friends and foreshadows the events leading to his crucifixion.
What is the significance of Jesus being troubled in spirit in John 13:21?
Jesus being troubled in spirit signifies his awareness of the impending betrayal and the emotional weight it carries. It illustrates his humanity and the sorrow he feels knowing that one of his closest followers will turn against him.
What does 'truly, truly' mean in John 13:21?
The phrase 'truly, truly' emphasizes the seriousness and truth of Jesus' statement about betrayal. It indicates that what he is about to reveal is of utmost importance and should be taken seriously.
What themes are present in John 13:21?
Key themes in John 13:21 include betrayal, emotional turmoil, trust, and the complexities of friendship. This verse reflects on human nature and the potential for treachery even among those we hold dear.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.