JOHN 13:21–30
THE BETRAYER REVEALED: NIGHT AND THE MYSTERY OF EVIL
Text – John 13:21–30
21 When he had said this, Jesus was deeply troubled and testified, “Amen, amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me.”
22 The disciples looked at one another, at a loss as to whom he meant.
23 One of his disciples, the one whom Jesus loved, was reclining at Jesus’ side.
24 So Simon Peter nodded to him to find out whom he meant.
25 He leaned back against Jesus’ chest and said to him, “Master, who is it?”
26 Jesus answered, “It is the one to whom I hand the morsel after I have dipped it.” So he dipped the morsel and took it and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot.
27 After he took the morsel, Satan entered him. So Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.”
28 Now none of those reclining at table realized why he said this to him.
29 Some thought that since Judas kept the money bag, Jesus had told him, “Buy what we need for the feast,” or to give something to the poor.
30 So he took the morsel and left at once. And it was night.
Historical and Jewish Context
Sharing a dipped morsel during a meal was a sign of intimacy and friendship. Judas’ betrayal, therefore, occurs within the closest circle of fellowship. In Jewish symbolism, night represented danger, confusion, and separation from God. The disciples’ misunderstanding highlights how betrayal can remain hidden beneath outward participation. The presence of Satan reflects Jewish belief in personal evil forces acting through human freedom.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage exposes the mystery of evil at work within the community of disciples. Catholic theology teaches that grace does not override human freedom; Judas freely chooses betrayal despite Jesus’ gestures of love. The phrase “Satan entered him” does not remove responsibility but reveals surrender to evil. Jesus remains sovereign—He is not overcome but allows events to unfold according to the Father’s plan. Darkness deepens as Judas leaves the light of Christ.
Parallels in Scripture
Psalm 41:10 – Betrayal by a close friend.
Luke 22:3–6 – Satan entering Judas.
Zechariah 11:12–13 – Thirty pieces of silver.
John 1:5 – Light shining in the darkness.
Ephesians 6:12 – Struggle against evil powers.
Key Terms
Betray – Act of treachery.
Morsel – Intimacy rejected.
Satan entered – Yielding to evil.
Night – Spiritual darkness.
Troubled – Christ’s sorrowful love.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is proclaimed during Holy Week. The Church invites the faithful to examine conscience and to remain faithful to Christ amid temptation and darkness.
Conclusion
John 13:21–30 reveals the tragic mystery of betrayal. Even in the presence of love, darkness can be chosen. Yet Jesus remains in control, offering friendship to the end and moving resolutely toward the Cross.
Reflection
Do I recognize subtle temptations that lead away from Christ?
How do I respond to Christ’s invitations to repentance?
Do I remain in the light or drift into darkness?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, keep me close to Your heart and guard me from the darkness of betrayal. Strengthen my freedom to choose love over sin and fidelity over fear. Let me remain always in Your light. Amen.
Suggested Next Section