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Verse

John 13:22

ESV The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he spoke.
NIV His disciples stared at one another, at a loss to know which of them he meant.
NASB The disciples began looking at one another, at a loss to know of which one He was speaking.
CSB The disciples started looking at one another—uncertain which one he was speaking about.
NLT The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean.
KJV Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.
NKJV Then the disciples looked at one another, perplexed about whom He spoke.

What does John 13:22 mean?

The name "Judas" has become synonymous with "traitor" in western culture. It's easy to forget that when Jesus ate this last supper with His inner circle, none of the disciples knew Judas was plotting to betray Jesus (Matthew 26:14–16). Jesus hinted at an impending act of treachery earlier (John 13:18), but has now said so in plain terms (John 13:21).

Confusion and suspicion would have been natural reactions when hearing these words. Another emotion felt by these men is personal fear—the worry in each man's heart that Jesus is speaking about him, in particular. John glosses over details that other gospel writers include. Matthew notes that the disciples mournfully ask Jesus, "is it me?" in turn (Matthew 26:22). What's most likely on their minds is the idea of leaving Jesus, rejecting Him, or becoming one of His critics. It's unlikely any of these men imagined that "betrayal" here means one of the inner circle turning Jesus over to people seeking His death.

This moment also sets a dark tone over Peter's foolhardy promise, and Jesus' response. Later, Peter will claim he's ready to follow Jesus anywhere, even into death. Jesus will respond that Peter will deny even knowing Him three times (John 13:37–38). That statement might well have made the others suspect Peter as the betrayer.
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