John 13:24

Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake.

Simon {G4613} Peter {G4074} therefore {G3767} beckoned {G3506} to him {G5129}, that he should ask {G4441} who {G5101} it should {G302} be {G1498} of {G4012} whom {G3739} he spake {G3004}.

So Shim‘on Kefa motioned to him and said, “Ask which one he’s talking about.”

So Simon Peter motioned to him to ask Jesus which one He was talking about.

Simon Peter therefore beckoneth to him, and saith unto him, Tell us who it is of whom he speaketh.

Context of John 13:24

This verse takes place during the solemn setting of the Last Supper, specifically after Jesus has announced to His disciples that one of them will betray Him (John 13:21). The disciples are greatly distressed and perplexed, looking at each other, unsure of whom Jesus was speaking (John 13:22). Simon Peter, known for his impetuous nature and desire to always be at the forefront, seeks to uncover the identity of the betrayer. He notices that the "disciple whom Jesus loved" (traditionally identified as John himself) was leaning on Jesus' breast, a position of intimacy and close proximity that would allow for a private inquiry.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Human Curiosity and Concern: The disciples' reaction to Jesus' shocking announcement highlights a natural human desire to understand and identify a threat, especially one from within their own trusted circle.
  • Peter's Impetuosity and Leadership: Peter's action here is characteristic of his personality. He is quick to act and often takes initiative, even in moments of confusion or distress. He sees an opportunity through John's proximity to Jesus.
  • John's Unique Relationship with Jesus: The verse underscores the special bond between Jesus and the "disciple whom Jesus loved," who is in a position to receive a private revelation. This close relationship allows him to be a conduit for Peter's urgent question.
  • The Unveiling of Betrayal: This moment is a critical step in the narrative of Jesus' betrayal, leading directly to the identification of Judas Iscariot (John 13:26).

Linguistic Insights

The word "beckoned" in the KJV comes from the Greek verb enenesen (ἐνένευσεν), which means to nod, make a sign, or give a signal, often silently. This suggests Peter made a discreet, non-verbal gesture to John, perhaps wanting to keep the inquiry private given the sensitive nature of the subject and the general distress at the table. This silent communication emphasizes the tension and gravity of the moment.

Practical Application

This verse offers several insights for believers today:

  • Seeking Truth in Difficulty: Like Peter, we often desire to know the truth, even when it is painful or unsettling. This highlights the importance of seeking clarity and understanding, especially in challenging circumstances.
  • Leveraging Relationships for Wisdom: Peter used John's unique position to gain access to information from Jesus. Similarly, we can learn to seek wisdom and guidance from those who have a closer walk with God or possess spiritual discernment, or by directly asking God for wisdom.
  • Understanding Different Personalities: The interaction between Peter's directness and John's intimate relationship with Jesus shows how different personalities and strengths can complement each other within a community or church body.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 21:40

    And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto [them] in the Hebrew tongue, saying,

  • Luke 1:22

    And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.

  • Acts 13:16

    Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with [his] hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.

  • Luke 5:7

    And they beckoned unto [their] partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

  • Acts 12:17

    But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.
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