What does John 13:3 mean?
A running theme in the gospel of John is Jesus' trust in God's will and God's schedule (John 7:6; 12:27). The first verse of this chapter put a context of love over Jesus' upcoming words and actions (John 13:1). This verse also provides a theme, but frames Jesus' actions as proof of His faith and obedience.In private, Jesus demonstrates love and patience with the disciples, as He gives the last of His lessons prior to being arrested. In the garden, He will express faith in God, despite knowing how terrible His experience will be (Matthew 26:39). Even on the cross, Christ will prove He knows exactly what His suffering will bring (Luke 23:43). This echoes the general theme of the first three verses of this chapter, which remind us that nothing catches Jesus by surprise.
One reason Jesus can persevere under pressure is His faith in God's ultimate control. This parallels the description found in Hebrews chapter 11. There, a litany of believers is given as examples of endurance despite persecution. All of them were willing and able to hold fast in those trials because they had a heavenly perspective (Hebrews 11:13–16).