King James Bible
"Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he."
Jesus deliberately foretells his betrayal in advance, emphasizing the prophetic nature of his knowledge. This preemptive revelation serves as proof of his divine foreknowledge, distinguishing him from false prophets who could only speak after events occurred. The fulfillment of Jesus' prediction will serve as a pivotal moment for the disciples' faith. This phrase indicates that the coming betrayal, though devastating, is part of God's sovereign plan and not a surprise to Jesus. The Greek phrase 'ego eimi' (I am) echoes God's self-revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:14, making a profound claim to deity. Jesus states that his predictive authority will confirm to the disciples his true identity as the Messiah and divine Son.