Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. — John 13:31.
From a human perspective, Judas’ departure marks a devastating act of betrayal. Yet, in John’s Gospel, Jesus declares, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him,” revealing a different understanding of this pivotal moment. The betrayal is the immediate catalyst that sets in motion the final events leading to Christ’s crucifixion, aligning with the pre-ordained plan. We call it betrayal; Christ calls it glorification. These are entirely different perspectives. It is difficult enough to understand why Jesus had to be murdered to save us from our sins, but to be betrayed by one of his disciples? Many people want to believe that Judas and Jesus planned this all along. Others think that the betrayal was necessary so that Christ could experience betrayal and understand how difficult it is to forgive such an action.
Perhaps, if we break the passage down, we can receive insight. The word “now” signifies a crucial turning point. With Judas’ departure to commit the act of betrayal, the events leading directly to the crucifixion are set in motion. Yet John writes, “The Son of Man has been glorified,” the glorification here isn’t about earthly power or acclaim. Instead, it points to the unveiling of his true divine identity and the completion of his mission. Through his perfect obedience, even unto death on the cross, Jesus demonstrates the ultimate love and service to the Father, revealing his glory. And when John writes, “God has been glorified in him,” this highlights the intimate relationship between Jesus and God. Through Jesus’ actions, particularly his suffering and death, God’s character – his profound love in sacrificing his Son, his justice in addressing sin, his mercy in offering redemption, and his ultimate power over death – is revealed.
Another crucial factor in understanding this difficult passage is that John’s Gospel has a unique theological emphasis. Unlike the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke), John often portrays Jesus’ death not just as suffering but as his “lifting up” or “exaltation” (see John 3:14, 12:32). This glorification begins on the cross itself. Also, from a theological standpoint, Judas’ actions can be seen as fulfilling prophecies in the Old Testament regarding betrayal by a close companion (e.g., Psalm 41:9), further solidifying Jesus’ identity as the Messiah within that framework.
I can’t get into God’s head, but I can understand that the crucifixion and return from the dead is essential. This concept of glorification through suffering and sacrifice resonates with a central theme throughout the Old Testament, where sacrifices often foreshadowed a greater act of redemption.
Ultimately, the passage in John 13:31 invites us to see beyond the immediate tragedy of betrayal and the brutality of the crucifixion to the deeper theological significance – the glorification of Jesus and, through him, the glorification of God’s love and plan for humanity. It’s a mystery that continues to be explored and contemplated.
What are your thoughts?
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