Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 13:32

"and God shall glorify him in himself, and straightway shall he glorify him." — John 13:32 (ASV)

The Johannine use of “glorify” (GK 1519) is peculiar. This word occurs five times in vv.31–32 in what seems to be unnecessary repetition. Intrinsically the word means “exaltation.” But as Jesus used it, it relates to his death . The Cross would become the supreme glory of God because the Son would completely obey the will of the Father. The meaning of “exalt” or “magnify” seems to fit better the last two uses in this verse. This dual dimension of “glorify” appears also in the prayer of ch. 17 . In this concept the Cross and the Resurrection are united as phases of a single redemptive event by which the purpose of God is completed and his righteousness vindicated.