Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?

JOHN 6:70KJV
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John 6:70 (KJV)

What does John 6:70 mean?

John 6:70 describes Jesus telling His twelve chosen disciples that one of them is "a devil," meaning one among them is an adversary or will betray Him. Jesus is making it clear that even among His closest followers, there is someone who opposes Him.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking directly to the twelve disciples after many other followers have left Him. The statement is both a warning and a revelation, hinting at the coming betrayal by Judas Iscariot. By calling one "a devil," Jesus uses strong language to show that not all who appear close are truly loyal, setting the stage for what will unfold later in the story.

The Greek behind John 6:70

  • The word "devil" here is διάβολος (diabolos), which often means "slanderer" or "accuser," and in this context, it points to someone acting as an enemy or betrayer rather than literally being Satan.
  • The Greek word for "chosen" is ἐξελεξάμην (exelexamēn), which means to select or pick out for a purpose. This highlights that Jesus deliberately chose all twelve, knowing one would turn against Him.
  • The phrase "one of you" (εἷς ἐξ ὑμῶν, heis ex hymōn) emphasizes the closeness of the betrayer to the group, underscoring the shock and seriousness of the statement.

Why John 6:70 matters

  • John 6:70 clarifies that Jesus was fully aware of His disciples' hearts and actions, including the coming betrayal, showing His insight and authority.
  • The verse challenges the assumption that outward association with Jesus guarantees true loyalty or faithfulness.
  • This statement prepares the reader for the later events of the Gospel, especially the betrayal by Judas, and deepens the sense of tension and foreknowledge in the narrative.

Where else these words appear

“Have” Greek G1586 · used in 19 verses

  • Mark 13:20 And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.
  • John 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
  • Acts 15:22 Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:

“devil” Greek G1228 · used in 36 verses

  • Matthew 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.
  • Luke 8:12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
  • Titus 2:3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

“twelve” Greek G1427 · used in 59 verses

  • Matthew 9:20 And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:
  • Mark 9:35 And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.
  • Luke 22:47 And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.