John 13:31 (KJV)

What does John 13:31 mean?

John 13:31 shows Jesus speaking after Judas leaves, saying that now the "Son of man" (meaning himself) is glorified, and God is glorified in him. Jesus is pointing out that his coming suffering and death will reveal both his true purpose and God's greatness.

In this moment, Jesus is talking to his remaining disciples during the Last Supper, right after Judas has gone out to betray him. Jesus uses the title "Son of man" for himself, and by saying he is "glorified," he means that the events about to happen—his arrest, crucifixion, and resurrection—will show who he really is and honor God through what he does.

The Greek behind John 13:31

• "Glorified" (ἐδοξάσθη, doxazō): This Greek word means to honor, reveal greatness, or make something clear and impressive. In this verse, it highlights that Jesus sees his coming suffering not as defeat, but as the moment when his true identity and God's plan are put on display.
• "Son of man" (υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου, huios tou anthrōpou): This phrase is a way Jesus often refers to himself, connecting to Old Testament ideas about a special figure who suffers and is exalted. Here, it reminds the disciples that what is about to happen fits into a bigger story.
• "In him" (ἐν αὐτῷ, en autō): This phrase shows that God's greatness is revealed through Jesus himself—not just by what happens to him, but by who he is and what he chooses to do.

Why John 13:31 matters

• John 13:31 helps clear up the idea that Jesus' suffering was a failure; instead, Jesus himself describes it as the moment of his glory and God's glory.
• The verse marks a turning point in the story, as Jesus begins to explain the meaning of his death to his closest followers.
• By linking his own glorification with God's, Jesus shows the deep connection between his mission and God's character, helping readers see that what happens next is part of God's larger plan.