Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 13:36

"Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered, Whither I go, thou canst not follow now; but thou shalt follow afterwards." — John 13:36 (ASV)

Peter’s question (“Where are you going?”) expresses bewilderment and perhaps slight exasperation. Jesus had previously spoken publicly of going away (8:21). On that occasion his enemies were mystified and wondered whether he was contemplating suicide. Now, in the intimacy of his inner circle, the disciples are equally puzzled, though conceivably less critical. Jesus’ promise, “You will follow later,” implies that Peter had asked the question so that he might go with him. His affection for Jesus, though often expressed clumsily, was undeniably genuine.