Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 6:70

"Jesus answered them, Did not I choose you the twelve, and one of you is a devil?" — John 6:70 (ASV)

Jesus indicated that his choice of the Twelve was conscious and deliberate; yet he included one whom he knew would be a traitor. Judas had no less opportunity than any of the others to know and serve Jesus; nor was he a victim of discrimination, for he was given a prominent place among them as treasurer of the group (12:6). Yet he chose to be dishonest in his financial administration and selfish in his attitude; he also chose to betray Christ.