Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;
Jesus {G2424} knowing {G1492} that {G3754} the Father {G3962} had given {G1325} all things {G3956} into {G1519} his {G846} hands {G5495}, and {G2532} that {G3754} he was come {G1831} from {G575} God {G2316}, and {G2532} went {G5217} to {G4314} God {G2316};
Yeshua was aware that the Father had put everything in his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God.
Jesus knew that the Father had delivered all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was returning to God.
Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he came forth from God, and goeth unto God,
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John 3:35
The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. -
Matthew 11:27
All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and [he] to whomsoever the Son will reveal [him]. -
Hebrews 1:2
Hath in these last days spoken unto us by [his] Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; -
John 17:2
As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. -
Matthew 28:18
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. -
John 8:42
Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. -
John 16:27
For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God.
John 13:3 provides profound insight into Jesus' state of mind and identity just before He performs the humbling act of washing His disciples' feet. This verse underscores the divine authority and inherent knowledge that underpinned His actions, making His subsequent humility all the more remarkable.
Context
This verse is set during the Last Supper, a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, shortly before His crucifixion. It immediately precedes Jesus rising from supper to wash the disciples' feet, an act typically performed by the lowest servant. The Gospel of John often highlights Jesus' divine nature and purpose, and this verse sets the stage by emphasizing His full awareness of His origin, destiny, and the immense power given to Him by the Father.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word for "knowing" here is eidos (εἰδὼς), which conveys a deep, intuitive, and settled understanding rather than mere intellectual awareness. Jesus possessed a complete and unshakeable grasp of His identity, mission, and divine mandate. The idiom "given all things into his hands" is a powerful expression in ancient cultures, signifying complete delegation of authority and control.
Significance and Application
John 13:3 is crucial because it reveals that Jesus' act of humble service was not performed out of weakness or obligation, but from a position of ultimate power and divine understanding. This is a powerful model for believers: