John 13:2

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} supper {G1173} being ended {G1096}, the devil {G1228} having now {G2235} put {G906} into {G1519} the heart {G2588} of Judas {G2455} Iscariot {G2469}, Simon's {G4613} son, to {G2443} betray {G3860} him {G846};

Complete Jewish Bible

They were at supper, and the Adversary had already put the desire to betray him into the heart of Y’hudah Ben-Shim‘on from K’riot.

Berean Standard Bible

The evening meal was underway, and the devil had already put into the heart of Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.

American Standard Version

And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse sets the stage for the profound events of the Last Supper, revealing the sinister spiritual undercurrent influencing Judas Iscariot. As the meal was underway, the devil had already begun to implant the treacherous thought of betraying Jesus into Judas's heart, highlighting the reality of spiritual warfare and the internal struggle that preceded the ultimate act of betrayal. This verse underscores the divine foreknowledge of Christ and the dark forces at play, even as Jesus prepared to demonstrate the depths of His love and self-sacrifice.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [John 13:2](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - The Betrayal Foreshadowed") immediately follows the opening of John's account of the Last Supper, a pivotal moment in Jesus's ministry. The preceding verse, [John 13:1](/john/13-1 "John 13:1 - Jesus' Love to the End"), establishes Jesus's profound love for His disciples "to the end" and His awareness that His hour had come to depart from the world to the Father. This sets up a dramatic contrast: divine, enduring love juxtaposed with the imminent, human act of betrayal. The verse also precedes Jesus's humble act of washing the disciples' feet, an object lesson in servant leadership, making the devil's influence on Judas all the more jarring against the backdrop of Christ's unparalleled humility and love. The supper itself is not yet formally concluded; rather, it is in progress, allowing for the subsequent institution of the Lord's Supper and Jesus's farewell discourse.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is a Passover meal, a deeply significant Jewish feast commemorating Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This annual celebration involved specific rituals, including the eating of unleavened bread and bitter herbs, and the drinking of wine. It was a time of communal remembrance and anticipation of messianic deliverance. Culturally, sharing a meal was a profound act of fellowship and covenant, making the betrayal by one who shared bread with Jesus particularly heinous. The mention of "supper" (deîpnon) refers to the main evening meal, often a formal affair. The political climate under Roman occupation was tense, with various Jewish factions holding different expectations for a Messiah—some desiring a political liberator. Judas's motives, though not explicitly stated here, are often understood in light of a potential disillusionment with Jesus's non-political messiahship or simple greed, which would make him susceptible to the devil's influence.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes within John's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Spiritual Warfare**, explicitly naming "the devil" as the instigator of betrayal, revealing the unseen spiritual conflict behind human actions. Secondly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Foreknowledge**, as Jesus is fully aware of the impending betrayal, yet proceeds with His mission, demonstrating that even evil acts fit into God's ultimate plan, as seen in [Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Predetermined Plan"). Thirdly, the verse touches upon **Human Responsibility and Culpability**, as Judas, despite satanic influence, still makes the conscious choice to betray Jesus, emphasizing the reality of free will and accountability, a concept echoed in [James 1:13-15](/james/1-13-15 "James 1:13-15 - Temptation and Sin"). Finally, it introduces the theme of **Betrayal and Sacrifice**, setting the stage for Jesus's ultimate act of love—His crucifixion—which is paradoxically brought about through the treachery of one of His own.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **supper (Greek, _deîpnon_):** This term refers to the chief meal of the day, typically eaten in the evening. In this context, it specifically denotes the Passover meal, which Jesus shared with His disciples. The fact that the devil's influence occurred "as supper was being ended" (or "was in progress," as some translations suggest) emphasizes the intimacy and sacredness of the setting where such a dark plot was conceived.
* **devil (Greek, _diábolos_):** Derived from a word meaning "to throw across," "to slander," or "to accuse," _diábolos_ is a direct reference to Satan, the arch-enemy of God and humanity. The use of this specific term highlights that the instigation of betrayal was not merely a human failing but a direct, malevolent spiritual attack orchestrated by the primary adversary.
* **put (Greek, _bállō_):** This verb means "to throw," "to cast," or "to put." In this context, it signifies an active and deliberate implantation of an idea or impulse. It suggests that the devil did not merely suggest or tempt, but powerfully injected the intent to betray into Judas's heart, indicating a forceful, insidious influence rather than a passive suggestion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And supper being ended,"**: This phrase, more accurately rendered "while supper was taking place" or "during supper" (from the Greek _ginomai_, meaning "to come into being" or "to happen"), establishes the immediate setting. It emphasizes that the plot to betray Jesus was conceived not after the meal, but during the intimate fellowship of the Passover, intensifying the tragedy of the betrayal.
* **"the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's [son],"**: This is the core revelation of the verse. It explicitly names the devil as the agent behind the treacherous thought. The phrase "put into the heart" (Greek: _ballō eis tēn kardian_) signifies a deep, internal implantation of purpose or intent, targeting the very core of Judas's being—his will, intellect, and moral center. Judas Iscariot is identified by name and lineage, underscoring his individual responsibility despite the spiritual influence.
* **"to betray him;"**: This final clause states the specific, malevolent purpose that the devil instilled in Judas: to "hand over" or "surrender" Jesus. The Greek term _paradídōmi_ (to betray) carries the weight of delivering someone into the hands of an enemy, often implying a breach of trust. This act is the culmination of the devil's design and Judas's receptivity, leading directly to the Passion narrative.

#### Literary Devices
[John 13:2](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - The Devil's Influence") employs several potent literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the verse immediately alerts the reader to the impending betrayal, building dramatic tension even before the act occurs. This foreknowledge on the part of the narrator (and implicitly, Jesus) highlights the divine control over events, even those driven by evil. There is a stark **Contrast** established between the sacred, intimate setting of the Passover meal—a symbol of covenant and deliverance—and the dark, insidious plot being conceived within it. This juxtaposition amplifies the tragedy and profundity of Judas's treachery. Furthermore, the explicit mention of "the devil" **Personifies** evil, presenting it not as an abstract force but as a cunning, active agent directly influencing human will. This personification underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the direct involvement of supernatural forces in the unfolding drama of redemption.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[John 13:2](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - The Devil's Scheme") is a profound theological statement on the nature of evil, human culpability, and divine sovereignty. It reveals that while God's plan unfolds, it does so amidst real spiritual opposition. The devil's active role in instigating the betrayal of Jesus underscores the reality of spiritual warfare, a constant theme throughout Scripture. Yet, this verse simultaneously affirms human responsibility; Judas's heart was receptive to the devil's suggestion, indicating a pre-existing inclination or weakness that the devil exploited. This tension between divine orchestration and human freedom is a central paradox of biblical theology. Ultimately, even this darkest act of betrayal serves God's redemptive purposes, as the handing over of Jesus leads directly to the cross, the means by which humanity's sin is atoned for and the devil's power is ultimately broken.

* [Luke 22:3](/luke/22-3 "Luke 22:3 - Satan Enters Judas")
* [Acts 1:16-18](/acts/1-16-18 "Acts 1:16-18 - Judas's Fate")
* [1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - Be Sober, Be Vigilant")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[John 13:2](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - A Warning and Call to Vigilance") serves as a timeless warning and a call to spiritual vigilance for every believer. It reminds us that evil is not merely an abstract concept but a real, active force that seeks to infiltrate our hearts and minds, often in the most intimate and sacred spaces of our lives. Just as the devil targeted Judas in the midst of fellowship with Christ, so too can temptation arise when we least expect it, or when we feel most secure. This verse challenges us to cultivate spiritual discernment, to recognize the origin of our thoughts and impulses, and to actively guard our hearts against the subtle, insidious suggestions that lead to sin. It also provides comfort, reminding us that even in the face of profound evil and betrayal, God's sovereign plan remains unshaken. Our responsibility is to remain faithful, to resist the devil, and to trust in God's ultimate victory, even when circumstances seem dire.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the explicit mention of "the devil" in this verse shape your understanding of temptation and sin in your own life?**
* **What "doors" might we inadvertently leave open in our hearts that could make us susceptible to negative spiritual influences?**
* **In what ways can we actively "guard our hearts" against thoughts and desires that are not from God, as [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart") encourages?**

### FAQ

**Did the devil force Judas to betray Jesus, or did Judas have a choice?**

Answer: [John 13:2](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - Devil's Influence, Judas's Choice") indicates that the devil "put into the heart" of Judas the thought or intent to betray Jesus. This suggests a powerful influence or instigation, but not an irresistible compulsion. The biblical narrative consistently portrays Judas as making a deliberate choice, driven by his own greed and disillusionment (e.g., [Matthew 26:14-16](/matthew/26-14-16 "Matthew 26:14-16 - Judas's Agreement to Betray")). While the devil initiated the evil thought, Judas's heart was receptive, and he ultimately chose to act upon it, making him fully culpable for his actions. This highlights the complex interplay between spiritual forces and human free will.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[John 13:2](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - Christ's Sovereignty in Betrayal") is not merely a tragic account of betrayal but a profound testament to Christ's sovereignty and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The devil's scheme to instigate betrayal, far from derailing God's purposes, inadvertently served as the very means by which Christ would accomplish the ultimate act of salvation. Jesus, fully aware that His "hour had come" ([John 13:1](/john/13-1 "John 13:1 - Jesus' Hour Has Come")), willingly embraced the path of suffering and death, knowing that even the treachery of a close disciple was part of the divine script. This betrayal, foreshadowed in the Old Testament ([Psalm 41:9](/psalms/41-9 "Psalm 41:9 - Betrayal by a Friend")), became the catalyst for Jesus's sacrificial death on the cross, the very act that defeats sin and death and disarms the powers of darkness ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). Thus, Judas's act, though born of evil, was paradoxically woven into the fabric of God's perfect plan to demonstrate His boundless love and to secure eternal life for all who believe in the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Jesus's willingness to endure this ultimate betrayal, even from one He loved, underscores His perfect obedience to the Father's will and His unwavering commitment to His mission as the suffering servant ([Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - The Suffering Servant's Silence")).

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

James 1:13

¶ Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:

James 1:17

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

Acts 5:3

But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back [part] of the price of the land?

Revelation 17:17

For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.

Ephesians 2:3

Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

John 6:70

Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?

John 6:71

He spake of Judas Iscariot [the son] of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.