John 13:11

KJV

For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} he knew {G1492} who {G3588} should betray {G3860} him {G846}; therefore {G5124}{G1223} said he {G2036}, Ye are {G2075} not {G3780} all {G3956} clean {G2513}.

Complete Jewish Bible

(He knew who was betraying him; this is why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”)

Berean Standard Bible

For He knew who would betray Him. That is why He said, “Not all of you are clean.”

American Standard Version

For he knew him that should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 13:11 serves as a parenthetical explanation, clarifying Jesus' earlier statement that "not all" of His disciples were truly clean. This verse powerfully underscores Jesus' divine omniscience, revealing His foreknowledge of Judas Iscariot's impending betrayal, even as He performed the humble act of foot-washing for all His disciples, including the one who would ultimately hand Him over to His enemies. It highlights the profound spiritual distinction between outward association and genuine inward purity before God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Jesus' pronouncement in [John 13:10](/john/13-10 "John 13:10 - Jesus Explains Foot Washing") that "He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all." The foot-washing incident itself, detailed in [John 13:1-5](/john/13-1-5 "John 13:1-5 - Jesus Washes Disciples' Feet"), sets the stage for a profound lesson in humility and spiritual cleansing. Verse 11 provides the crucial interpretive key to the seemingly enigmatic "not all clean" phrase, revealing that Jesus was referring specifically to Judas. This parenthetical comment by the narrator ensures the reader understands the depth of Jesus' knowledge and the tragic reality of betrayal within His inner circle, setting the stage for the subsequent explicit prediction of betrayal in [John 13:18-30](/john/13-18-30 "John 13:18-30 - Jesus Identifies His Betrayer").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the Last Supper, a Passover meal in an upper room in Jerusalem. Foot washing was a common and necessary act of hospitality in ancient Israel, where people wore open sandals on dusty roads. It was typically performed by the lowest servant in the household. Jesus' act of washing His disciples' feet, as their Master, was a radical subversion of social norms, demonstrating profound humility and servant leadership. This act, while physically cleansing, also carried symbolic weight for spiritual purification. The cultural expectation was that all who shared a meal were bound by a covenant of loyalty, making Judas's betrayal, especially after sharing this intimate meal, an even more egregious act of treachery, echoing the sentiment of [Psalm 41:9](/psalm/41-9 "Psalm 41:9 - Betrayal by a Friend").

* **Key Themes:** [John 13:11](/john/13-11 "John 13:11 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal") contributes significantly to several major themes within the Gospel of John. Firstly, it underscores **Jesus' Divine Omniscience**, demonstrating His supernatural knowledge of future events and the inner thoughts of individuals, a theme consistently highlighted throughout John's Gospel (e.g., [John 2:24-25](/john/2-24-25 "John 2:24-25 - Jesus Knew All Men") and [John 6:64](/john/6-64 "John 6:64 - Jesus Knew Who Would Betray Him")). Secondly, it explores the theme of **Spiritual Purity vs. Outward Appearance**. While the physical act of foot washing symbolized the ongoing need for cleansing from the "dust" of daily life, Jesus' statement points to a deeper, fundamental spiritual state. Judas, despite outward association and participation in sacred rituals, lacked true inward purity. This highlights the distinction between ritualistic observance and genuine transformation, a concept central to the New Covenant. Finally, the verse introduces the theme of **Betrayal and Divine Sovereignty**, showing that even the most heinous act of human treachery was not outside of God's sovereign plan for the redemption of humanity, as foreshadowed in Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [Zechariah 11:12-13](/zechariah/11-12-13 "Zechariah 11:12-13 - The Price of Betrayal")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **knew (Greek, _eídō_):** This verb, used in the perfect tense, signifies a settled, complete knowledge, not merely a present perception. In the context of Jesus, it implies a divine, inherent understanding that transcends human observation. It means to "have knowledge" or "perceive" in a deep, intuitive sense, highlighting Jesus' omniscience and His awareness of Judas's true heart and intentions long before the act of betrayal.
* **betray (Greek, _paradídōmi_):** Derived from _para_ (alongside) and _didōmi_ (to give), this verb literally means "to give over," "to surrender," or "to hand over." While it can have neutral meanings like "to deliver" or "to transmit," in this context, it carries the sinister connotation of treachery and disloyalty, specifically referring to the act of handing someone over to their enemies. It emphasizes the active role Judas would play in Jesus' arrest and crucifixion.
* **clean (Greek, _katharós_):** This adjective denotes purity, freedom from defilement, whether literal (physically clean) or figurative (morally or spiritually pure). In [John 13:10](/john/13-10 "John 13:10 - Jesus Explains Foot Washing"), Jesus uses it to distinguish between the superficial cleansing of feet and the comprehensive spiritual cleanliness of those who are "washed." Here, its negation ("not all clean") points to a profound spiritual defilement in Judas, contrasting sharply with the spiritual purity of the other disciples who had truly received Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For he knew who should betray him":** This opening clause acts as the interpretive key to Jesus' previous statement. The conjunction "For" (G1063, _gár_) introduces the reason or explanation. It explicitly states Jesus' pre-existent, divine knowledge of Judas's identity as the betrayer. This is not a guess or a suspicion, but a certain, foreordained understanding of a future event and the specific individual involved. This highlights Jesus' sovereignty even over the darkest human actions.
* **"therefore said he,":** This phrase connects Jesus' divine knowledge directly to His public utterance. His statement "Ye are not all clean" was not a random or vague comment but a deliberate declaration rooted in His complete awareness of Judas's spiritual state and his impending act. The "therefore" (G5124, _toûto_ G1223, _diá_) indicates a direct causal link between His knowledge and His words.
* **"Ye are not all clean.":** This is the specific statement from [John 13:10](/john/13-10 "John 13:10 - Jesus Explains Foot Washing") that [John 13:11](/john/13-11 "John 13:11 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal") clarifies. While the other disciples were spiritually "clean" through their faith in Him, Judas was fundamentally unclean, not merely in need of a foot-washing, but in his very heart and allegiance. This reveals the tragic reality of one who was outwardly a disciple but inwardly an enemy, highlighting the distinction between superficial association and genuine spiritual transformation.

#### Literary Devices
[John 13:11](/john/13-11 "John 13:11 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal") employs several powerful literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the verse explicitly reveals Jesus' knowledge of the betrayal, building narrative tension for the subsequent events of the Last Supper and the passion narrative. This foreshadowing is amplified by the **Irony** inherent in Jesus washing the feet of His betrayer, an act of ultimate humility and service extended even to the one who would commit the ultimate act of disloyalty. There is also a strong element of **Contrast** between the outward appearance of the disciples, all participating in the same ritual, and their true spiritual states, with one being fundamentally "unclean." This contrast underscores the theme of inner spiritual reality versus external religious performance. Furthermore, the parenthetical nature of the verse itself serves as an **Aside** from the narrator, offering crucial insight directly to the reader, ensuring the theological significance of Jesus' words is not missed.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[John 13:11](/john/13-11 "John 13:11 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal") profoundly reinforces the theme of Jesus' divine nature, particularly His omniscience, which is a hallmark of the Johannine Christology. His foreknowledge of Judas's betrayal demonstrates that the events leading to His crucifixion were not accidental or outside of God's control, but part of a sovereign plan. This knowledge also highlights the depth of Jesus' love and grace, as He continued to serve and interact with Judas, even knowing the treachery in his heart. The verse also underscores the critical distinction between outward religious association and genuine inward spiritual purity. True "cleanliness" comes from a deep, transformative relationship with Christ, not merely from physical proximity or participation in rituals. This theological truth serves as a sober reminder that not all who appear to be part of the community of faith are truly regenerated.

* [John 6:70-71](/john/6-70-71 "John 6:70-71 - Jesus Chooses Twelve, One a Devil")
* [Psalm 41:9](/psalm/41-9 "Psalm 41:9 - Betrayal by a Friend")
* [Acts 1:16-17](/acts/1-16-17 "Acts 1:16-17 - Judas's Betrayal Foretold")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[John 13:11](/john/13-11 "John 13:11 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal") challenges us to look beyond superficial appearances and examine the true condition of our hearts. It's a powerful reminder that outward religious activity or association with believers does not automatically confer spiritual purity. Just as Judas was physically present with Jesus, participated in sacred meals, and even performed ministry, yet remained spiritually unclean, so too can individuals today be involved in church life without genuine faith. This verse calls us to a deep self-assessment, prompting us to ask if our "cleanliness" is merely external or if it stems from an authentic, transformative relationship with Christ. It encourages us to pursue not just ritualistic observance, but true repentance, faith, and a heart fully devoted to God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be outwardly conforming to Christian practices while neglecting genuine inward spiritual transformation?**
* **How does Jesus' foreknowledge of Judas's betrayal, yet His continued service to him, challenge my understanding of love and grace towards those who may wrong me?**
* **What does "clean" truly mean in the context of my relationship with God, beyond just avoiding outward sin?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus allow Judas to betray Him if He knew it would happen?**

Answer: Jesus allowed Judas to betray Him because it was part of God's sovereign plan for the redemption of humanity, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [Psalm 41:9](/psalm/41-9 "Psalm 41:9 - Betrayal by a Friend") and [Zechariah 11:12-13](/zechariah/11-12-13 "Zechariah 11:12-13 - The Price of Betrayal")). Jesus' foreknowledge did not negate Judas's free will or moral responsibility, but it demonstrated that even the darkest human actions are ultimately woven into God's overarching redemptive purpose. Jesus willingly embraced this path, knowing it would lead to the cross, which was necessary for the salvation of the world (cf. [John 10:17-18](/john/10-17-18 "John 10:17-18 - Jesus Lays Down His Life")).

**What is the significance of Jesus saying, "Ye are not all clean"?**

Answer: This statement, clarified by [John 13:11](/john/13-11 "John 13:11 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal"), highlights the distinction between physical or ritualistic cleansing and true spiritual purity. While the other disciples were spiritually "clean" through their faith and relationship with Jesus (as indicated by [John 15:3](/john/15-3 "John 15:3 - You Are Already Clean")), Judas was not. His heart remained unregenerated, despite his outward association with Jesus and the other disciples. The statement serves as a stark reminder that outward participation in religious acts does not equate to genuine inward transformation or salvation.

**Does this verse imply that someone can be a "fake" Christian or disciple?**

Answer: Yes, the verse strongly implies that one can be an outward associate or follower of Jesus without possessing true, saving faith and spiritual purity. Judas was part of Jesus' inner circle, performed miracles (as the disciples were sent out in [Matthew 10:1-4](/matthew/10-1-4 "Matthew 10:1-4 - Jesus Sends Out the Twelve")), and was entrusted with the money bag. Yet, Jesus knew he was not truly "clean" (i.e., regenerate or genuinely devoted). This serves as a cautionary tale that true discipleship is a matter of the heart and spiritual transformation, not merely external affiliation or activity. It echoes warnings found elsewhere in scripture about those who profess faith but do not possess it (e.g., [Matthew 7:21-23](/matthew/7-21-23 "Matthew 7:21-23 - Not Everyone Who Says 'Lord, Lord'")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[John 13:11](/john/13-11 "John 13:11 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal") points powerfully to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, even through the darkest acts of human sin. Jesus' divine omniscience, revealed in His foreknowledge of Judas's betrayal, underscores His sovereignty over all events, including His own suffering and death. This was not a tragic accident, but a preordained act of God's love, necessary for the salvation of humanity. The "uncleanliness" of Judas, contrasted with the spiritual purity of the other disciples, foreshadows the ultimate cleansing that Jesus would accomplish through His sacrifice. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), whose shed blood provides the only true and lasting purification for those who believe ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Cleansing by Christ's Blood")). Thus, Judas's betrayal, though a heinous act, ultimately served God's purpose in bringing Jesus to the cross, where He became sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). The "cleanliness" Jesus spoke of is ultimately found only in Him, the source of all spiritual purity and eternal life ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by Christ's Blood")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 13:26

Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped [it]. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave [it] to Judas Iscariot, [the son] of Simon.

John 13:21

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.

John 13:2

And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's [son], to betray him;

John 13:18

¶ I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.

Matthew 26:24

The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.

Matthew 26:25

Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.

John 6:64

But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.