John 6:70

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Jesus {G2424} answered {G611} them {G846}, Have {G1586} not {G3756} I {G1473} chosen {G1586} you {G5209} twelve {G1427}, and {G2532} one {G1520} of {G1537} you {G5216} is {G2076} a devil {G1228}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Yeshua answered them, “Didn’t I choose you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is an adversary.”

Berean Standard Bible

Jesus answered them, “Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!”

American Standard Version

Jesus answered them, Did not I choose you the twelve, and one of you is a devil?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
[John 6:70](/john/6-70 "John 6:70 - Jesus' Revelation of Betrayal") is a profound and unsettling declaration by Jesus, revealing His divine omniscience and the painful reality of impending betrayal from within His most intimate circle. Following a significant turning point in His ministry where many disciples abandoned Him, Jesus affirms His sovereign choice of the twelve, yet simultaneously exposes the hidden, malevolent allegiance of one among them, identifying him as "a devil." This statement underscores Jesus' complete foreknowledge of human hearts and the spiritual forces at play, even as it foreshadows the ultimate act of treachery that would lead to His crucifixion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment following Jesus' challenging discourse on the [Bread of Life](/john/6-35-59 "John 6:35-59 - Jesus, the Bread of Life") in Capernaum. Many of His followers, finding His teaching on eating His flesh and drinking His blood too difficult to accept, "went back, and walked no more with him" ([John 6:66](/john/6-66 "John 6:66 - Many Disciples Turn Away")). In the wake of this mass defection, Jesus turns to the twelve, asking if they too would leave. Simon Peter, acting as the spokesperson for the apostles, responds with a fervent confession of faith, declaring, "Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God" ([John 6:68-69](/john/6-68-69 "John 6:68-69 - Peter's Confession of Faith")). It is immediately after this powerful affirmation of loyalty from Peter that Jesus, with full awareness of the spiritual reality hidden within His chosen group, delivers the shocking revelation of [John 6:70](/john/6-70 "John 6:70 - Jesus' Revelation of Betrayal"), starkly contrasting Peter's genuine faith with the insidious nature of Judas's heart.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The selection of "the twelve" by Jesus carried immense significance within the Jewish context. It mirrored the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing the establishment of a new covenant community and the restoration of God's people. In ancient Jewish society, a rabbi's disciples were expected to be utterly devoted, internalizing their teacher's words and lifestyle. The idea of betrayal from within such an intimate, divinely chosen group would have been profoundly shocking and culturally abhorrent. Furthermore, the term "devil" (Greek: _diabolos_) was understood as the ultimate adversary, Satan, or one who acts as his agent. To apply this term to a chosen disciple would have been an extraordinary and severe indictment, indicating a spiritual alignment far beyond mere human failing or disagreement. This context highlights the gravity of Jesus' statement and the unique nature of Judas's apostasy.

* **Key Themes:** [John 6:70](/john/6-70 "John 6:70 - Jesus' Revelation of Betrayal") contributes significantly to several major themes in the Gospel of John and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully demonstrates **Jesus' divine omniscience and sovereignty**. He knew from the beginning who would betray Him, even as He chose Judas to be among the twelve, affirming that His redemptive plan was not derailed but rather incorporated this human treachery. Secondly, it highlights the **nature of true discipleship versus superficial adherence**. While many turned away due to the difficulty of His teaching, Judas remained physically present but spiritually hostile, underscoring that outward association does not guarantee genuine faith. Thirdly, the verse introduces the theme of **betrayal and its spiritual dimension**. Jesus' description of Judas as "a devil" (Greek: _diabolos_) indicates that Judas was not merely a disbeliever but was deeply influenced by, or acting as an agent of, Satan. This spiritual alignment is later explicitly confirmed when [the devil puts betrayal into Judas's heart](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - The Devil Puts Betrayal into Judas's Heart") and [Satan enters into him](/john/13-27 "John 13:27 - Satan Enters Judas"). This reveals the ongoing spiritual warfare and the reality of evil operating even within the closest circles.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **chosen (Greek, _eklégomai'_):** From G1586, meaning "to select" or "make choice." This word emphasizes Jesus' deliberate and sovereign act in calling the twelve apostles, including Judas. It highlights that Judas's presence among them was not an accident or a mistake on Jesus' part, but a purposeful selection within God's broader redemptive plan, even with the foreknowledge of his betrayal.
* **twelve (Greek, _dṓdeka'_):** From G1427, meaning "two and ten," or "a dozen." This specific number is highly symbolic, representing the twelve tribes of Israel and signifying the foundation of God's new covenant community. Jesus' question, "Have not I chosen you twelve," underscores the unique, foundational role of this group, making the betrayal by one of them all the more shocking and significant.
* **devil (Greek, _diábolos'_):** From G1228, meaning "a traducer," "false accuser," "slanderer," and specifically referring to Satan. By calling Judas "a devil," Jesus is not implying Judas is literally Satan, but rather that Judas's character, intentions, and actions are aligned with the purposes of the ultimate adversary. He is acting as an agent of evil, a slanderer and betrayer, fundamentally opposing God's redemptive plan. This strong term emphasizes the spiritual nature of Judas's apostasy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Jesus answered them,"**: This phrase indicates Jesus' response to Peter's confession of faith on behalf of the twelve. It is not a question seeking information, but a profound declaration that immediately follows and contextualizes Peter's loyalty, setting up the shocking contrast.
* **"Have not I chosen you twelve,"**: This is a rhetorical question, affirming Jesus' intentional and sovereign selection of all twelve disciples, including Judas. It underscores His divine authority and foreknowledge, emphasizing that Judas's inclusion was part of God's predetermined plan, not an oversight. The number "twelve" highlights the unique, foundational role of this apostolic group.
* **"and one of you is a devil?"**: This is the startling revelation. Despite being chosen and part of the inner circle, one of them is characterized by Jesus as "a devil." This is a spiritual indictment, signifying that this individual (Judas Iscariot, as later revealed) is aligned with the adversary, Satan, in his heart and intentions, actively working against Jesus' divine mission. This statement foreshadows the ultimate betrayal and reveals the depth of spiritual deception present even within the closest community.

#### Literary Devices
[John 6:70](/john/6-70 "John 6:70 - Jesus' Revelation of Betrayal") employs several powerful **literary devices**. The most prominent is **Foreshadowing**, as Jesus' statement explicitly predicts the betrayal of one of His chosen disciples, setting the stage for the later events of the Last Supper and His arrest. There is also profound **Irony** in the fact that one "chosen" by the Son of God would ultimately align with the "devil" to betray Him. This highlights the paradox of divine election and human free will, and the tragic reality of apostasy. The verse utilizes a **Rhetorical Question** ("Have not I chosen you twelve... and one of you is a devil?"), which serves not to elicit information but to make a forceful, declarative statement, emphasizing Jesus' authority and absolute knowledge. Finally, there is a stark **Contrast** between Peter's heartfelt confession of faith and loyalty just moments before, and Jesus' immediate revelation of the deep-seated spiritual opposition harbored by one of the very same group. This contrast magnifies the tragedy and spiritual significance of Judas's impending betrayal.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[John 6:70](/john/6-70 "John 6:70 - Jesus' Revelation of Betrayal") stands as a stark reminder of the reality of betrayal and spiritual warfare within the very community of faith. It underscores Jesus' divine omniscience, demonstrating that His mission was not thwarted by human treachery but rather unfolded according to God's sovereign plan, even incorporating the foreseen actions of Judas. This passage challenges the simplistic notion that outward association with Christ guarantees inward transformation, revealing that a person can be chosen for a significant role yet harbor a heart fundamentally opposed to God's will, aligning with the adversary. The presence of "a devil" among the twelve serves as a theological warning against superficial commitment and a call for constant spiritual discernment.

* [Psalm 41:9](/psalms/41-9 "Psalm 41:9 - Betrayal by a Close Friend"): "Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me." This Old Testament prophecy finds its ultimate fulfillment in Judas's betrayal, highlighting the divine foreknowledge of Christ's suffering.
* [Matthew 26:20-25](/matthew/26-20-25 "Matthew 26:20-25 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayer"): "And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me... He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me." This passage explicitly details Jesus' prediction of His betrayer, confirming the fulfillment of the warning in John 6:70.
* [Acts 1:16-20](/acts/1-16-20 "Acts 1:16-20 - Judas's Demise and Replacement"): "Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus... For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take." Peter's sermon confirms that Judas's actions were a fulfillment of prophecy and led to his demise and replacement, further emphasizing God's sovereign plan.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[John 6:70](/john/6-70 "John 6:70 - Jesus' Revelation of Betrayal") serves as a profoundly sobering and vital passage for every believer. It compels us to move beyond outward appearances and engage in honest, deep self-examination. The presence of "a devil" within Jesus' inner circle reminds us that spiritual deception and opposition can exist even in the most sacred spaces. This calls for constant vigilance, discernment, and a humble reliance on the Holy Spirit to guard our hearts and minds. We are challenged to consider the true nature of our commitment to Christ: Is it superficial, based on benefits, or is it a genuine, heart-level surrender to His Lordship, even when His teachings are difficult or costly? This verse also offers comfort in its revelation of Jesus' omniscience and sovereignty. Despite the deepest betrayal imaginable, God's redemptive plan was never threatened; it was fulfilled. This assures us that even in the face of human failure, treachery, or overwhelming evil, God remains in control, and His purposes will ultimately prevail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' foreknowledge of Judas's betrayal challenge my understanding of human free will and divine sovereignty in God's plan?**
* **What does the presence of "a devil" among the twelve teach me about spiritual discernment and the potential for deception within any community of faith, including my own?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to follow Christ outwardly while my heart remains uncommitted or even subtly aligned with worldly or self-serving motives?**

### FAQ
**Was Judas literally a demon or Satan?**

Answer: No, Judas was not literally a demon or Satan. The Greek word used, _diábolos_ (G1228), means "slanderer," "accuser," or "traducer," and is the same word often used to refer to Satan. When Jesus calls Judas "a devil," He is indicating that Judas's character, intentions, and actions were aligned with the purposes of Satan. Judas acted as an agent or instrument of the devil, serving the adversary's agenda to betray Jesus. The Gospel of John later clarifies this spiritual influence, stating that "[the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him](/john/13-2 "John 13:2 - The Devil Puts Betrayal into Judas's Heart")" and that "[Satan entered into him](/john/13-27 "John 13:27 - Satan Enters Judas")" after Jesus gave him the sop. This signifies a profound spiritual allegiance and influence, not a literal transformation into a demonic being.

**Why did Jesus choose Judas if He knew he would betray Him?**

Answer: Jesus' choice of Judas, despite His foreknowledge of the betrayal, highlights several profound theological truths. Firstly, it demonstrates Jesus' divine omniscience and sovereignty; His plan was not a reaction to human events but unfolded according to God's predetermined counsel ([Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Determined Counsel and Foreknowledge")). The betrayal by a close friend was prophesied in the Old Testament ([Psalm 41:9](/psalms/41-9 "Psalm 41:9 - Betrayal by a Close Friend")), and Judas's role was necessary for the fulfillment of these prophecies and for the redemptive work of Christ. Secondly, it underscores the reality of human responsibility and free will. Judas made his own choices, driven by greed and a heart resistant to Jesus' true spiritual kingdom, even while being given every opportunity for repentance and genuine discipleship. Finally, it shows that God can use even the most wicked acts of humanity to accomplish His ultimate good purposes, bringing about the salvation of the world through Christ's sacrifice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[John 6:70](/john/6-70 "John 6:70 - Jesus' Revelation of Betrayal") finds its Christ-centered fulfillment not in the tragedy of Judas's betrayal, but in the sovereign, redemptive work of Jesus Christ that triumphantly overcomes it. Jesus, the perfectly chosen Son of God, willingly entered into a world where even those closest to Him could harbor the spirit of the adversary. His foreknowledge of Judas's betrayal, far from being a sign of weakness, underscores His divine control and purposeful journey to the cross. The "devil" who sought to destroy God's plan through Judas ultimately served to fulfill it. Jesus, the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), embraced the suffering of betrayal—a suffering prophesied and necessary ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - Christ's Suffering for Our Sins"))—to secure humanity's redemption. Through His death and resurrection, Christ disarmed the principalities and powers, triumphing over the very "devil" who orchestrated His betrayal ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). Thus, Judas's act, though born of evil, became a dark thread woven into the tapestry of God's glorious salvation, demonstrating Christ's ultimate victory over sin, death, and the devil.

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 13:27

And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.

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 17:12

While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

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.

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.

1 John 3:8

He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

1 Timothy 3:11

Even so [must their] wives [be] grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.