How does John 13:31 reveal Jesus' understanding of His glorification through suffering? Setting the Scene: A Door Closes, Glory Opens “When Judas had gone out” (John 13:31a) signals the moment the betrayer leaves, and Christ turns to His faithful disciples. The stage is set: darkness outside, divine purpose inside. Key Declaration: “Now the Son of Man Is Glorified” John 13:31: “When Judas had gone out, Jesus said, ‘Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him.’” • “Now” — not after the resurrection, but beginning with the very events that will lead to the cross. • “Son of Man” — Daniel 7:13-14’s majestic figure, yet here He chooses a path of suffering. • “Is glorified” — perfect tense in Greek; the plan is settled, the glory already certain. Glory Through Suffering: How the Verse Unpacks Jesus’ Mindset • The betrayal sets in motion His arrest, trials, scourging, and crucifixion—yet He calls it “glory.” • For Jesus, suffering is not a detour from glory but the avenue to it (cf. John 12:23-24). • The Father’s character—justice, holiness, love—will shine most brightly at Calvary (Romans 3:25-26). • Mutual glorification: the Son displays the Father’s nature; the Father vindicates the Son (John 17:1-5). Old Testament Echoes Affirmed • Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12: the Servant is “raised and lifted up and highly exalted” (52:13) through being “pierced for our transgressions” (53:5). • Psalm 22 moves from “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (v.1) to worldwide praise (v.27). Jesus sees Himself fulfilling this arc. New Testament Confirmation • Philippians 2:8-11: humiliation “to the point of death—yes, death on a cross” leads to the name above every name. • Hebrews 2:9-10: Jesus is “crowned with glory and honor because He suffered death.” • 1 Peter 1:11: the Spirit foretold “the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow.” Practical Takeaways for Believers • Suffering does not nullify God’s glory; it often unveils it. • God’s purposes can be “now” even before visible results. • Glory in Scripture is inseparable from obedience and sacrifice—true for Christ, true for us (Matthew 16:24). |
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