John 13:24

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 13:24 captures a pivotal moment during the Last Supper, immediately following Jesus' announcement of His impending betrayal. Amidst the disciples' confusion and distress, Simon Peter, ever the proactive leader, discreetly signals to the "disciple whom Jesus loved" (traditionally John) to inquire of Jesus the identity of the betrayer. This action highlights the disciples' urgent desire for clarity, Peter's characteristic initiative, and the unique intimacy shared between Jesus and John, positioning John as a crucial intermediary in this highly charged revelation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the deeply significant narrative of Jesus' [Last Supper](/john/13 "John 13 - The Last Supper and Betrayal Prophecy"). Prior to this, Jesus has performed the humble act of [washing His disciples' feet](/john/13-1-11 "John 13:1-11 - Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet"), setting an example of servant leadership. Immediately before John 13:24, Jesus has declared that [one of them will betray Him](/john/13-21 "John 13:21 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayer"), causing profound distress and confusion among the disciples, who begin [looking at one another](/john/13-22 "John 13:22 - Disciples' Distress") in bewilderment. The "disciple whom Jesus loved" is noted to be [reclining next to Jesus](/john/13-23 "John 13:23 - The Beloved Disciple's Position"), a position of intimate proximity that sets the stage for Peter's request. The subsequent verses reveal Jesus' identification of Judas as the betrayer by giving him the [dipped morsel](/john/13-26 "John 13:26 - Identification of Judas").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is a Passover Seder meal, a solemn and traditional Jewish feast. During such meals, participants would recline on couches around a low table, leaning on their left elbow. This posture meant that the head of one person would be near the breast of the person to their left. The "disciple whom Jesus loved" being "leaning on Jesus' breast" (John 13:23) indicates he was immediately to Jesus' right, the position of honor or closest intimacy. This physical proximity made a private, whispered conversation or a discreet signal possible, which is crucial for understanding Peter's action. The custom of sharing a meal was also a sign of deep fellowship and trust, making the announcement of betrayal by one at the table particularly shocking and culturally offensive.
* **Key Themes:** John 13:24 contributes to several key themes within the Gospel of John and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **betrayal** and Jesus' sovereign knowledge of it, even as He allows it to unfold for redemptive purposes. It underscores the **intimacy of relationship** with Jesus, exemplified by the "disciple whom Jesus loved," who is uniquely positioned to receive private communication. The verse also showcases **Peter's characteristic impulsiveness and leadership**, as he takes initiative to seek answers, even if indirectly. Furthermore, it touches upon the theme of **divine revelation**, as Jesus is about to disclose a crucial piece of information that will set in motion the final events leading to His crucifixion. This moment also subtly reinforces the **authenticity of the divine plan**, demonstrating that Jesus is not a victim of circumstance but fully aware and in control of His destiny, as seen throughout the Gospel, particularly in passages like [John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - Jesus' Authority Over His Life").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **beckoned (Greek, _neúō_):** (G3506) This primary verb means "to nod" or "to signal." In this context, it describes Peter's non-verbal, discreet gesture to John. It implies a silent, urgent communication, likely a nod or a hand motion, given the solemnity and tension of the moment and the desire for privacy regarding such a sensitive question.
* **ask (Greek, _pynthánomai_):** (G4441) This verb means "to question" or "to ascertain by inquiry." It implies seeking information or learning by casual intelligence, distinguishing it from a demand (like _aitéō_) or a request for a favor (_erotáo_). Peter wants John to *find out* the identity, not necessarily to make a formal request.
* **spake (Greek, _légō_):** (G3004) A primary verb meaning "to lay forth" or "to relate in words," often implying systematic or set discourse. Here, it refers to Jesus' recent declaration about the betrayer. The use of _légō_ emphasizes that Jesus' words were a clear, albeit shocking, statement, not a casual remark.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him,"**: This phrase reveals Peter's immediate and characteristic response to Jesus' unsettling announcement. The "therefore" (G3767, _oûn_) links his action directly to the preceding distress and confusion among the disciples. Peter, known for his directness and leadership, takes the initiative to seek clarification, but does so discreetly by signaling to John. This "beckoning" (G3506, _neúō_) suggests a silent, perhaps urgent, gesture, acknowledging the sensitive nature of the inquiry.
* **"that he should ask"**: Peter's intent is clear: he wants John to pose the question to Jesus. The choice of the verb "ask" (G4441, _pynthánomai_) implies an inquiry to ascertain information, rather than a demanding confrontation. Peter recognizes John's unique proximity and intimacy with Jesus, making him the ideal intermediary for such a delicate and private question.
* **"who it should be of whom he spake."**: This clause specifies the content of the desired inquiry. The disciples are perplexed and desperate to identify the betrayer. The phrase "who it should be" (G5101, _tís_ and G1498, _eíēn_) underscores the uncertainty and grave concern among them. Peter's question, conveyed through John, seeks to pierce through the ambiguity of Jesus' initial statement and pinpoint the individual responsible for the impending treachery.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Characterization**, vividly portraying Simon Peter's impetuous and proactive nature. His immediate "beckoning" demonstrates his leadership and desire for answers, a trait consistent with his portrayal throughout the Gospels. Simultaneously, it highlights the unique **Intimacy** between Jesus and the "disciple whom Jesus loved," whose physical proximity and special relationship make him the chosen conduit for this sensitive inquiry. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing**, as this discreet inquiry directly leads to the identification of Judas Iscariot, setting in motion the final, crucial events of Jesus' passion. The silent "beckoning" itself can be seen as a form of **Dramatic Irony**, as the disciples are seeking to uncover a truth that Jesus already fully knows and has sovereignly ordained.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 13:24, while seemingly a minor detail, profoundly illustrates the human response to divine revelation and the dynamics within the early apostolic community. It underscores the disciples' profound bewilderment and fear in the face of Jesus' shocking prophecy of betrayal, revealing their very human struggle to comprehend the unfolding divine plan. The interaction between Peter and John also highlights the diverse roles and relationships within the body of Christ—Peter, the bold and direct leader, and John, the intimate and beloved confidant. Theologically, it points to Jesus' sovereign knowledge of all things, including the hearts of men and the future, even as He allows His will to unfold through human agency and interaction.

* [Matthew 26:21-22](/matthew/26-21-22 "Matthew 26:21-22 - Disciples' Distress at Betrayal Prophecy")
* [Luke 22:23](/luke/22-23 "Luke 22:23 - Disciples Questioning the Betrayer")
* [John 21:20](/john/21-20 "John 21:20 - The Beloved Disciple's Intimacy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This brief interaction at the Last Supper offers rich ground for personal reflection and application. Like the disciples, we often face moments of confusion, uncertainty, or even betrayal in our lives. Peter's immediate desire to understand and act, even if indirectly through John, reminds us of the human need for clarity and truth, especially in distressing circumstances. It challenges us to consider how we seek answers when faced with perplexing situations. Do we turn to trusted confidants, or do we seek direct communion with God, who knows all things? The scene also highlights the value of spiritual intimacy; John's close relationship with Jesus positioned him to receive a crucial revelation. This encourages believers to cultivate a deep, personal relationship with Christ, for it is in such intimacy that we may gain greater understanding and discernment in life's most challenging moments. Furthermore, the interplay between Peter and John reminds us that different temperaments and gifts are vital within the community of faith, each playing a crucial role in discerning and responding to God's will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When faced with unsettling or unclear circumstances, what is your typical first reaction? Do you seek immediate answers, or do you wait?**
* **How can cultivating a deeper, more intimate relationship with Christ (like John's) better equip you to understand His will and truth in difficult times?**
* **In what ways can you leverage the diverse gifts and relationships within your spiritual community to seek wisdom and understanding, much like Peter sought John's help?**
* **What does this passage teach you about Jesus' sovereignty and His knowledge of future events, even those involving human sin and betrayal?**

### FAQ

**Why didn't Peter ask Jesus directly, instead of beckoning to John?**

Answer: Peter's decision to "beckon" to John rather than directly ask Jesus likely stemmed from several factors. Firstly, the physical arrangement of the Last Supper, with participants reclining, meant that John was in a unique position of intimate proximity to Jesus ("leaning on Jesus' breast" as described in [John 13:23](/john/13-23 "John 13:23 - The Beloved Disciple's Position")). This made a private, whispered inquiry possible without disturbing the solemnity of the meal or drawing undue attention to the sensitive question of betrayal. Secondly, Peter, while often bold, may have recognized the delicate nature of the question and the potential for a more discreet answer through John, who was known as "the disciple whom Jesus loved," implying a special bond and access. This was a moment of profound tension and distress among all the disciples, and a direct, loud inquiry might have been seen as inappropriate or disruptive. Peter's action shows both his characteristic initiative and a degree of prudence in a highly charged situation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 13:24, while focused on the disciples' human response to betrayal, ultimately points to Christ's divine knowledge and His sovereign control over the unfolding of salvation history. Jesus' prior declaration that "one of you will betray me" ([John 13:21](/john/13-21 "John 13:21 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayer")) is not a moment of surprise for Him, but a fulfillment of prophecy and a necessary step in His redemptive mission. Peter's urgent inquiry, channeled through John, underscores the profound mystery of God's plan, where even human sin and treachery are woven into the fabric of divine purpose. Christ, the Lamb of God, willingly entered into this betrayal, not as a victim, but as the sovereign Lord who lays down His life of His own accord ([John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - Jesus' Authority Over His Life")). His revelation of the betrayer, though painful, served to confirm His prophetic authority and to highlight the depth of His sacrifice—that He would endure such intimate treachery for the sake of the world's salvation ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love for the World")). Thus, this scene, leading to the identification of Judas, is a crucial step toward the cross, where Christ's ultimate act of love and obedience would secure eternal life for all who believe ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "God Demonstrates His Love")).

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

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.