The disciples became deeply grieved, and began to ask Him one by one, “Surely it is not I, Lord?”
Jesus’ words deeply shook the disciples’ hearts. Their sorrow testifies not to doubt, but to a sense of love and reverent fear. Each one asks, “Is it I, Lord?” meaning that no one considered himself righteous, but each one looked into his own heart. This is an example of meekness and humility, when a person does not accuse another, but begins to examine himself. They know their weaknesses and fear even unintentionally betraying the Lord. The Lord does not expose anyone by name, because His word was directed to the conscience of all. Their sorrow was also a spiritual pain that someone among them could hand over the One whom they loved. This episode teaches that when God’s word exposes sin, a person should not justify himself, but should ask, “Is it I, Lord?” because the path of repentance begins only from that humble question.