ACC ~ John 13 v3

THE MEANING

ORIGEN: The things, therefore, that were not formerly in Jesus’ hands are given into his hands by the Father. And it is not some things and not others that are given into his hands, but all things. David, too, seeing in the Spirit, says in relation to this, “The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.’” [1] For Jesus’ enemies were also a part of the “all things” that Jesus knew, so far as it was in the power of foreknowledge, to be given to him by the Father. … The Father has given all things into his hands, that is, into his power. For his hands hold all things. Or, the Father [has given all things] “to him,” for his work. “My Father works still, and I work also.” [2] COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 32.26-27, 34. [3]

[1] Ps 110:1 (109:1 LXX).

[2] Jn 5:17.

[3] FC 89:347, 349**; SC 385:198, 202.

EVEN JUDAS IS IN HIS HANDS

AUGUSTINE: Since the Evangelist was about to relate such a magnificent instance of our Lord’s humility, he first wanted to remind us of his majesty. This is why he says, “Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands” … including his betrayer. TRACTATES ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 55.6. [1]

“GIVING OVER” REFERS TO SALVATION

CHRYSOSTOM: The Evangelist wonders aloud how one who was so very great, who came from God and went to him and ruled over everything, did not disdain to undertake such an action [of humility]. And by “giving over” I think John means the salvation of the faithful, [2] … not that Christ would in any way be lessened by this action, since he came from God and went to God and possessed all things. But when you hear of “giving over,” you should not think of this action in human terms, because it shows how he honors the Father and demonstrates his unanimity with him. For just as the Father gives over to him, so he also gives over to the Father, as Paul declares saying, “When he shall have given over the kingdom to God, even the Father.” [3] But John here means this in a more human sense, showing his great care for them and declaring his unutterable love in now caring for them as for his own. HOMILIES ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 70.1. [4]

[1] NPNF 1 7:300-301**; CCL 36:466.

[2] He then cites as proof of this understanding Mt 11:27; Jn 3:27; 6:44; 17:6.

[3] 1 Cor 15:24.

[4] NPNF 1 14:257**.