Time is moving on. Jesus knows that the ruler of this world is already on his way to arrest him. Some time ago he spoke about this with his disciples. Did I not choose you, the twelve? And yet one of you is a devil
(John 6:70). And earlier that evening, during the Passover celebration, Satan took hold of Judas. Jesus knew this and said to him, What you are about to do, do it quickly
(John 13:27). Again, this shows that this betrayal and all that followed did not take him by surprise. On the contrary, Jesus even set it in motion. The ruler of this world, the devil, Satan, is given the time and opportunity to do his sinister work. You could even say he is given orders here, given free rein. This makes it clear who is in charge. That is why Jesus adds, He has no claim, no power over me.
That evil person cannot do whatever he wants with Jesus.
Did the disciples realize this then? They certainly did not. Who among us can ever fathom this? Here is Someone who willingly and knowingly surrenders himself to evil powers. This is far beyond our comprehension. Surely no human would do that? Clearly, supernatural factors are at work here. That is precisely why Jesus immediately tells his disciples (paraphrased), This is the will of my Father: he wants me to surrender to the ruler of the world. And the Father's will is law for me. Therefore, I am willing even to give my life.
Jesus pointed to this just an hour ago during the Passover, which he so eagerly wanted to celebrate with the inner circle of his disciples. After all, he said over the cup of wine, Drink from this, all of you; this is my blood, the blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins
(Matthew 26:27–28; see also Mark 14:24). God's plan of wondrous love for sinners had to be fulfilled. And Jesus was willing, without reservation, to give his life for this. In this way the Father and the Son showed their love for each other and, together, for us humans. Jesus himself said it powerfully, For God so loved the world that he gave his [one and] only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life
(John 3:16). This calls for deep wonder and lifelong gratitude on our part.
After these moving words from Jesus, he says, Rise, let us go from here.
Enough has been said for now. It is time to go. Note that it is again Jesus who takes the initiative. He, knowing who is coming and what awaits him, resolutely sets out into the night. He leads the way and calls his disciples to follow him. He is truly the good shepherd, willing and prepared to give his life for the sheep (John 10:11–18). Come, follow Jesus and kneel before him.
30 Je ne parlerai plus guère avec vous; car le prince du monde vient. Il n'a rien en moi;