How does John 6:70 illustrate Jesus' foreknowledge and divine authority over His disciples? Verse in Focus “Jesus answered them, ‘Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!’” (John 6:70) Christ’s Foreknowledge Revealed • Jesus speaks in the present tense—He already knows Judas’s future betrayal (compare John 6:64; 13:11). • He identifies Judas without naming him, showing omniscience over hidden motives (John 2:24-25). • Foreknowledge is a divine attribute confirmed elsewhere: “I am God, and there is none like Me… declaring the end from the beginning” (Isaiah 46:9-10). • Even as events unfold later (John 18:4), Jesus “knew all that was coming upon Him,” proving that His words in 6:70 were intentional, not accidental. Divine Authority in Choosing • “Have I not chosen you…?” The initiative is entirely Christ’s (cf. John 15:16; Mark 3:13). • His authority extends to appointing twelve distinct roles, including the betrayer, to fulfill Scripture (Psalm 41:9; Acts 1:16). • The choice underscores lordship: discipleship is a privilege granted, not a self-appointment (Acts 1:2). Implications for the Twelve • Comfort: the faithful eleven can rest in the certainty that Jesus’ knowledge of them is perfect (John 17:12). • Warning: proximity to Jesus does not equal genuine faith; Judas serves as a living caution. • Purpose: even rebellion is woven into God’s redemptive plan, highlighting Christ’s uncompromised sovereignty. Lessons for Believers Today • Jesus knows every heart and motive—nothing surprises Him (Hebrews 4:13). • Our calling rests on His authority; security comes from His choice, not our merit (Ephesians 1:4-5). • Vigilance against hypocrisy: outward association with Christ must match inward devotion (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Trust in His governance: when evil appears inside the camp, He is neither puzzled nor thwarted (Romans 8:28). Key Takeaways • John 6:70 blends foreknowledge (“one of you is a devil”) with authority (“I… have chosen”), revealing Jesus as omniscient Lord. • The verse invites awe at His perfect knowledge, assurance in His sovereign choice, and sober self-examination regarding genuine discipleship. |
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