John 13:24
Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake.
Original Language Analysis
οὖν
therefore
G3767
οὖν
therefore
Strong's:
G3767
Word #:
2 of 12
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
Πέτρος
Peter
G4074
Πέτρος
Peter
Strong's:
G4074
Word #:
5 of 12
a (piece of) rock (larger than g3037); as a name, petrus, an apostle
πυθέσθαι
that he should ask
G4441
πυθέσθαι
that he should ask
Strong's:
G4441
Word #:
6 of 12
to question, i.e., ascertain by inquiry (as a matter of information merely; and thus differing from g2065, which properly means a request as a favor;
τίς
who
G5101
τίς
who
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
7 of 12
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
περὶ
of
G4012
περὶ
of
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
10 of 12
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
Historical Context
First-century table fellowship had social protocols. Peter, not seated next to Jesus, uses appropriate means to communicate with Him through John. The seating arrangement reflects Jesus' special relationship with John. Peter and John represent complementary personalities—impulsive boldness and reflective intimacy—both essential to apostolic ministry.
Questions for Reflection
- How do Peter and John's different approaches to Jesus model diverse but complementary relationships with Christ?
- What does Peter's eagerness to identify the betrayer reveal about his loyalty and later denial?
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Analysis & Commentary
Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him (νεύει, neuei)—Peter gestures, likely not wanting to interrupt the meal or speak over Jesus. Peter's characteristic boldness appears even here; he wants to know immediately who will betray Christ. That he should ask who it should be—Peter delegates the question to John, who has proximity to Jesus. This reveals the disciples' social dynamics and John's privileged position.
Peter's use of John as intermediary shows practical wisdom (John is closer) and perhaps tact (avoiding public confrontation). Yet it also reveals Peter's urgent need to know. Later Peter will claim greater loyalty than all others (Mark 14:29); here he wants the traitor identified. The scene demonstrates the disciples' corporate concern—they want the betrayer exposed. Peter and John work together, foreshadowing their later partnership in Acts (Acts 3-4, 8:14).