Today’s devotion comes from John 13:31-32.
“Therefore when he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in Him; if God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and will glorify Him immediately.” John 13:31-32. (Emphasis added.)
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At first reading, it seems puzzling that Jesus would make this statement when Judas had just left His presence to begin his betrayal. But, Jesus used this point of time to emphasize God’s sovereignty.
Although Judas is responsible for his betray of Jesus, this betrayal was determined to occur through the sovereign power and authority of God. It was the predetermined plan of God that Judas betray Jesus: “this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death.” Acts 2:23
In these most precious words of Jesus, Jesus reveals the purpose of this predetermined plan. “And when He had taken some bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood. “But behold, the hand of the one betraying Me is with Mine on the table. “For indeed, the Son of Man is going as it has been determined; but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!” Luke 22:19-22.
We may get prideful about some work that we are doing for God’s glory. We may even hide our pride under Question and Answer 1 of the Westminister Larger Catechism. (Question 1: What is the chief and highest end of man? Answer: Man’s chief and highest end is to glorify God, and fully to enjoy him forever.) But, let us never forget that God can and does glorify Himself and that God can even use the most wicked act of man to glorify Himself.
In this regard, it is interesting to ponder the strength of the repetition and emphasis of God being glorified at this point of time of betrayal by Judas. “Therefore when he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in Him; if God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and will glorify Him immediately.” John 13:31-32. (Emphasis added.) How often do we read in Scripture about God reacting this way after some good act by man?!
This Scripture for today should make us humble and glad for what God has done. “For You, O LORD, have made me glad by what You have done, I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands.” Psalm 92:4
Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions 