John 13:11 – “For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, John explains why Jesus made a statement in the previous verse about some of the disciples not being truly “clean” (John 13:10). Jesus was referring to Judas Iscariot, the one who would soon betray Him.

Even though Judas had spent years with Jesus, listening to His teachings, witnessing His miracles, and walking alongside the other disciples, his heart had never truly been transformed. Outwardly, he appeared to be one of them, but inside, he was not spiritually clean.

This moment highlights that Jesus was fully aware of what was happening. He knew that Judas had already agreed to betray Him (Luke 22:3-6) and that this betrayal was part of God’s sovereign plan. Yet, despite knowing this, Jesus still humbled Himself and washed Judas’ feet.

This verse is a sobering reminder that not everyone who is outwardly associated with Jesus is truly following Him. Judas had all the opportunities to believe, but his heart remained unchanged. This warning applies to us today as well—being close to Christianity does not automatically mean we are clean in God’s sight.

Historical Context

This event takes place during the Last Supper, the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion. At this time, Judas had already been working with the religious leaders to arrange Jesus’ betrayal for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).

Even though Judas was still physically present among the disciples, his heart had already turned away from Jesus. While the others were devoted (even if imperfectly), Judas had set his mind on betraying the Lord.

Jesus’ statement about cleanliness was not just about physical washing but about spiritual purity. The other disciples had been spiritually cleansed by their faith in Christ, but Judas remained spiritually unclean because his heart did not belong to Jesus.

Theological Implications

1. Jesus’ Knowledge of All Things – Jesus was not caught off guard by Judas’ betrayal. He knew exactly what was happening, demonstrating His divine foreknowledge (John 6:70-71).
2. Outward Appearance vs. Inner Reality – Judas looked like a disciple but was not truly one. This shows that true faith is not about outward actions but the condition of the heart (Matthew 7:21-23).
3. God’s Sovereign Plan Includes Human Choices – Though Judas’ betrayal was prophesied (Psalm 41:9), he was still responsible for his own decision. God’s plan does not remove human accountability.

Literary Analysis

John’s Gospel often contrasts true faith with false faith. Here, the contrast is clear—eleven of the disciples are truly clean because of their faith, while Judas is not.

John also frequently highlights Jesus’ foreknowledge. This verse emphasizes that Jesus was never unaware of what Judas was doing. He knew from the beginning that Judas would betray Him, yet He still included him in His ministry.

The phrase “not every one was clean” is carefully chosen. It suggests that spiritual purity is not automatic—just being among Jesus’ followers does not make someone clean. This foreshadows Judas’ coming betrayal and ultimate separation from Jesus.

Biblical Cross-References

• John 6:70-71 – “Then Jesus replied, ‘Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!’ (He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who, though one of the Twelve, was later to betray him.)”
• Psalm 41:9 – “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.”
• Matthew 7:21-23 – “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
• Luke 22:3-6 – “Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus.”
• 2 Corinthians 13:5 – “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we truly clean before Jesus, or are we just going through the motions like Judas? It is possible to be around Christianity, know the Bible, and even participate in religious activities while still having a heart that is far from God.

It also reassures us that Jesus is in control. Even when evil seems to be winning, God is not caught off guard. Jesus knew about Judas’ betrayal long before it happened, and He still accomplished His mission. No act of evil can derail God’s plan.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

The fact that Jesus washed Judas’ feet—even knowing he would betray Him—is one of the most powerful displays of God’s love. Jesus did not withhold love even from the one who would hand Him over to His enemies. This shows that God’s love is not based on our worthiness but on His character.

However, God’s love does not force anyone to follow Him. Judas had every opportunity to repent, but he chose to reject Jesus. God offers His love freely, but He does not override human free will.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus as the All-Knowing Lord – He knew Judas’ heart and actions before they happened (John 13:21).
2. Jesus as the Ultimate Example of Love – He washed Judas’ feet, demonstrating love even for His enemy (Luke 6:27-28).
3. Jesus as the Judge Who Knows the Heart – While Judas fooled others, he could not fool Jesus (Hebrews 4:12-13).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Jesus washed Judas’ feet even though He knew he would betray Him?
2. How does this verse challenge the idea that being close to Christianity automatically makes someone a true follower of Jesus?
3. Are there areas in your life where you might be “going through the motions” instead of truly surrendering to Christ?
4. How can we make sure we are truly “clean” before God and not just religiously involved?
5. What does Jesus’ foreknowledge of Judas’ betrayal teach us about God’s control over all things?

John 13:11 is a sobering reminder that outward appearances can be deceiving. It calls us to examine our hearts and make sure that we are not just near Jesus, but truly belonging to Him. It also reassures us that no matter what happens, Jesus is always in control, and His love is never limited—even for those who reject Him. May we take this verse to heart and ensure that we are truly walking with Christ.