Reading Plan · Day 307
Changes this passage only. Set your default for every passage.
John 7-9
Day 307
This day's reading covered Jesus' return to Galilee after the first Passover of His public ministry. Then, the narrative quickly covered the next two Passovers of His public ministry in order to focus on Jesus' final year of public ministry.
Day 307 Read
Where You Stopped
John 7
1And after these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Judæa, because the Jews sought to kill him.
2Now the feast of the Jews, the feast of tabernacles, was at hand.
1After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him.
2Now the Jews’ feast of tabernacles was at hand.
Commentary · verses 1-2
3His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judæa, that thy disciples also may behold thy works which thou doest.
4For no man doeth anything in secret, and himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou doest these things, manifest thyself to the world.
5For even his brethren did not believe on him.
3His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest.
4For there is no man that doeth any thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world.
5For neither did his brethren believe in him.
Commentary · verses 3-5
Those of Jesus' brethren (kinsman), who did not believe on Him, encouraged Him to go to the feast and make Himself more publicly known. Basically, they told Jesus that if He really was the Messiah, He ought to let the religious leaders and city dwellers know.
6Jesus therefore saith unto them, My time is not yet come; but your time is always ready.
7The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that its works are evil.
8Go ye up unto the feast: I go not up unto this feast; because my time is not yet fulfilled.
6Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready.
7The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil.
8Go ye up unto this feast: I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet full come.
Commentary · verses 6-8
Remember, the religious leaders in Jerusalem were seeking to kill Jesus for healing a man on the Sabbath. Jesus said His time had not yet come to enter into Jerusalem with a big display.
9And having said these things unto them, he abode still in Galilee.
10But when his brethren were gone up unto the feast, then went he also up, not publicly, but as it were in secret.
9When he had said these words unto them, he abode still in Galilee.
10But when his brethren were gone up, then went he also up unto the feast, not openly, but as it were in secret.
Commentary · verses 9-10
However, Jesus went to the feast secretly. Jesus needed to find a way to take His public ministry into Jerusalem without the religious leaders killing Him.
11The Jews therefore sought him at the feast, and said, Where is he?
12And there was much murmuring among the multitudes concerning him: some said, He is a good man; others said, Not so, but he leadeth the multitude astray.
13Yet no man spake openly of him for fear of the Jews.
11Then the Jews sought him at the feast, and said, Where is he?
12And there was much murmuring among the people concerning him: for some said, He is a good man: others said, Nay; but he deceiveth the people.
13Howbeit no man spake openly of him for fear of the Jews.
Commentary · verses 11-13
Remember, the feast was eight days long. Jesus intentionally stayed hidden for some days in order for the people to speculate about Him. This created tension, set the context for what He wanted to do, and actually made Him more famous.
14But when it was now the midst of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and taught.
14Now about the midst of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and taught.
Commentary · verse 14
In the middle of the feast (probably the fourth day out of eight days) Jesus went to the temple and taught. Jesus provided a release from the tension, people were anxious to hear Him.
15The Jews therefore marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?
15And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?
Commentary · verse 15
The Jews marveled at what Jesus knew and wondered how He knew the letters (Old Testament writings) without ever learning. The Jews there must have thought Jesus was not formally schooled by a Rabbi as were other Rabbis. There was no record of the name of the Rabbi Jesus studied under. We do know that everyone, even people who were enemies of Jesus, recognized Jesus as a Rabbi. This may be the only fact about Jesus on which everyone agreed.
16Jesus therefore answered them, and said, My teaching is not mine, but his that sent me.
16Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
Commentary · verse 16
Doctrine: Jesus stated that His Doctrine was not of Himself but was God's Doctrine. Jesus gave credit to God as His Rabbi.
17If any man willeth to do his will, he shall know of the teaching, whether it is of God, or whether I speak from myself.
17If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
Commentary · verse 17
Doctrine: Those who DO the Will of God will have the ability to discern whether or not a teaching is from God or man. Doing is the HOW. Discerning is the WHY. The proof that a Doctrine (WHAT) is of God is that it has a right HOW/WHY.
18He that speaketh from himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh the glory of him that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
18He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
Commentary · verse 18
Doctrine: A person who speaks from (and about) himself, seeks his own glory, and has unrighteousness (pride) in himself. Jesus did not directly state He was the Son of God, and prophets did not directly state to other people that they were prophets, because this would have been seeking their own glory and proved they were in pride.
19Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you doeth the law? Why seek ye to kill me?
20The multitude answered, Thou hast a demon: who seeketh to kill thee?
19Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill me?
20The people answered and said, Thou hast a devil: who goeth about to kill thee?
Commentary · verses 19-20
Jesus showed these people they were sinners (they could not keep the Law) and hypocrites (were condemning Jesus for healing a man on the Sabbath). However, notice Jesus said this with two questions. The multitude responded with a question. Jesus had the attention of the multitude.
21Jesus answered and said unto them, I did one work, and ye all marvel because thereof.
21Jesus answered and said unto them, I have done one work, and ye all marvel.
Commentary · verse 21
Jesus blatantly brought up the Pharisees seeking to kill Him for healing the man on the Sabbath.
22Moses hath given you circumcision (not that it is of Moses, but of the fathers); and on the sabbath ye circumcise a man.
23If a man receiveth circumcision on the sabbath, that the law of Moses may not be broken; are ye wroth with me, because I made a man every whit whole on the sabbath?
22Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers;) and ye on the sabbath day circumcise a man.
23If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day?
Commentary · verses 22-23
Jesus showed that His healing of the man on the Sabbath (John 5:16) was less work than what the priests do when they circumcise on the Sabbath, yet the religious leaders do not persecute themselves. Why? Because they kept the Law according to circumcision. Remember, a person could do whatever they wanted for six days as long as it did not violate the Law. However, on the Sabbath, the person could only do what the Law told him to do. The Law said to do good and make people whole. Jesus was keeping the Law, but the religious leaders did not understand God's Doctrine and the result was the religious leaders wanted to kill Jesus.
24Judge not according to appearance, but judge righteous judgment.
24Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.
Commentary · verse 24
Doctrine: Do not judge by effects (the WHAT), judge by causes (the WHY). The appearance is an effect. It is a WHAT. Whether the action is a sin or not does not depend on the action itself, it depends on the reason (WHY) for the action. Jesus' reason for healing the man on the Sabbath was right. The religious leaders did not want to take the time to understand the reason WHY. They wanted to stop at the WHAT, the appearance.
25Some therefore of them of Jerusalem said, Is not this he whom they seek to kill?
26And lo, he speaketh openly, and they say nothing unto him. Can it be that the rulers indeed know that this is the Christ?
25Then said some of them of Jerusalem, Is not this he, whom they seek to kill?
26But, lo, he speaketh boldly, and they say nothing unto him. Do the rulers know indeed that this is the very Christ?
Commentary · verses 25-26
This exchange resulting from the context Jesus created caused the religious leaders not to answer (because every answer they could have given would have proved they were wrong). The religious leaders remaining silent caused the multitude to consider Jesus was the Messiah.
27Howbeit we know this man whence he is: but when the Christ cometh, no one knoweth whence he is.
27Howbeit we know this man whence he is: but when Christ cometh, no man knoweth whence he is.
Commentary · verse 27
The people were taught from Isaiah 53:8 that the Messiah would hide Himself after He was born and once He appeared, no one would know where He came from.
28Jesus therefore cried in the temple, teaching and saying, Ye both know me, and know whence I am; and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.
29I know him; because I am from him, and he sent me.
28Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am: and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.
29But I know him: for I am from him, and he hath sent me.
Commentary · verses 28-29
Jesus' response was to state that since they knew where He had come from they ought to realize He did not come of Himself and that the people did not know Who had sent Him.
30They sought therefore to take him: and no man laid his hand on him, because his hour was not yet come.
31But of the multitude many believed on him; and they said, When the Christ shall come, will he do more signs than those which this man hath done?
32The Pharisees heard the multitude murmuring these things concerning him; and the chief priests and the Pharisees sent officers to take him.
30Then they sought to take him: but no man laid hands on him, because his hour was not yet come.
31And many of the people believed on him, and said, When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this man hath done?
32The Pharisees heard that the people murmured such things concerning him; and the Pharisees and the chief priests sent officers to take him.
Commentary · verses 30-32
The Pharisees became even more threatened by Jesus.
33Jesus therefore said, Yet a little while am I with you, and I go unto him that sent me.
34Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, ye cannot come.
33Then said Jesus unto them, Yet a little while am I with you, and then I go unto him that sent me.
34Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come.
Commentary · verses 33-34
Jesus foretold His death and ascension.
35The Jews therefore said among themselves, Whither will this man go that we shall not find him? will he go unto the Dispersion among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks?
36What is this word that he said, Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me; and where I am, ye cannot come?
35Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles?
36What manner of saying is this that he said, Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come?
Commentary · verses 35-36
The Jews did not understand Jesus' words.
37Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.
37In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
Commentary · verse 37
On the eighth day of Tabernacles, the priests put water in the wine that they poured (sacrificed) on the altar. This day celebrated the entrance into the Promised Land. Jesus took this context and showed the water and wine represented Him and the Holy Spirit. He would be sacrificed for us so that we could have the Holy Spirit within us so that we could enter into the eternal Promised Land.
38He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, from within him shall flow rivers of living water.
39But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believed on him were to receive: for the Spirit was not yet given; because Jesus was not yet glorified.
38He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
39(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
Commentary · verses 38-39
Doctrine: The living water was grace. The word grace meant "the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life." The Holy Spirit will be received by those who believe Jesus. The Holy Spirit would not be given until Jesus was glorified.
40Some of the multitude therefore, when they heard these words, said, This is of a truth the prophet.
41Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, What, doth the Christ come out of Galilee?
42Hath not the scripture said that the Christ cometh of the seed of David, and from Bethlehem, the village where David was?
40Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.
41Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee?
42Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?
Commentary · verses 40-42
This public event caused many to proclaim Jesus as the Messiah. However, some in the multitude referenced Micah 5:2 and doubted.
43So there arose a division in the multitude because of him.
44And some of them would have taken him; but no man laid hands on him.
45The officers therefore came to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why did ye not bring him?
46The officers answered, Never man so spake.
47The Pharisees therefore answered them, Are ye also led astray?
48Hath any of the rulers believed on him, or of the Pharisees?
43So there was a division among the people because of him.
44And some of them would have taken him; but no man laid hands on him.
45Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him?
46The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.
47Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived?
48Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him?
Commentary · verses 43-48
Jesus' public proclamation was so powerful, not only did the officers testify as to its uniqueness, the Pharisees were concerned the officers, rulers, and other Pharisees may have been convinced to believe Jesus was the Messiah!
49But this multitude that knoweth not the law are accursed.
49But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.
Commentary · verse 49
The Pharisees were in pride. They believed they knew the Law and they believed the multitude did not know the Law.
50Nicodemus saith unto them (he that came to him before, being one of them), 51Doth our law judge a man, except it first hear from himself and know what he doeth?
50Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)
51Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?
Commentary · verses 50-51
Nicodemus defended Jesus' right to be heard before being condemned.
52They answered and said unto him, Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and see that out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.
52They answered and said unto him, Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.
53[And they went every man unto his own house:
53And every man went unto his own house.
Commentary · verse 53
This verse was half of the sentence. The rest of the sentence was John 8:1...
Where You Stopped
John 8
1but Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.
1Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.
Commentary · verse 1
The Pharisees were separated, each going to his own house. Jesus took His Disciples (perhaps for the first time) to the mount of Olives. Jesus now had access to Jerusalem and for the final six months of His public ministry.
2And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.
2And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.
Commentary · verse 2
Jesus began teaching people early in the morning and all the people came unto Him.
3And the scribes and the Pharisees bring a woman taken in adultery; and having set her in the midst, 4they say unto him, Teacher, this woman hath been taken in adultery, in the very act.
3And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,
4They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.
Commentary · verses 3-4
The scribes and Pharisees brought a woman, who was caught in the act of adultery, to Jesus. Notice, they did not bring the man to Jesus, even though he was obviously there because she was caught in the very act. Was it possible that this situation was intentionally set up by the Pharisees in order for the Pharisees to put Jesus on trial?
5Now in the law Moses commanded us to stone such: what then sayest thou of her?
5Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?
Commentary · verse 5
They tempted/tested Jesus by telling Him what the Law said and then asking Him what He would do with her. If Jesus prevented people from stoning her, He would be violating the Law. If He encouraged people to stone her, He would be accused of usurping authority from the Romans. He would also be violating His widening of Doctrine towards forgiveness, which was usurping the authority of the Pharisees concerning Doctrine. The Pharisees believed they had perfectly trapped Jesus.
6And this they said, trying him, that they might have whereof to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground.
6This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.
Commentary · verse 6
Jesus' first response was to say nothing and write with his finger on the ground.
7But when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
7So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
Commentary · verse 7
Jesus did not disagree with them, Jesus actually gave them a way that they could stone her but none of them were without sin. In order for someone to stone her, they would have to explain how they were without sin.
8And again he stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground.
8And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.
Commentary · verse 8
Jesus went back to writing on the ground.
9And they, when they heard it, went out one by one, beginning from the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman, where she was, in the midst.
9And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
Commentary · verse 9
The KJV translated this passage "And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience..." Jesus' words convicted them by their own conscience.
Doctrine: Conviction is focused on the action, not the person. These people realized the action they wanted to do was wrong. Nothing would have dispersed the crowd more completely.
Doctrines on this passage
10And Jesus lifted up himself, and said unto her, Woman, where are they? did no man condemn thee?
11And she said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said, Neither do I condemn thee: go thy way; from henceforth sin no more.]
10When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
11She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
Commentary · verses 10-11
Doctrine: Condemnation is focused on the person. It is a value judgment of the person. The Holy Spirit convicts people. He will focus on your actions. Satan condemns people. He focuses on judging the person. Jesus stated the other people were condemning her, and He was not. However, Jesus then focused on convicting her: Jesus told her to go and sin no more. Jesus never justified the woman's sin. Regardless of whether or not the Pharisees set up this situation, the woman was an adulteress or Jesus would not have told her to "sin no more."
12Again therefore Jesus spake unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life.
12Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
Commentary · verse 12
Jesus is the light of the world. Those who follow Jesus shall have the light of life: energy from God to repair.
13The Pharisees therefore said unto him, Thou bearest witness of thyself; thy witness is not true.
13The Pharisees therefore said unto him, Thou bearest record of thyself; thy record is not true.
Commentary · verse 13
The Pharisees knew the Doctrine that a prophet and the Messiah could not directly justify Himself to people. However, Jesus' statement was indirect.
14Jesus answered and said unto them, Even if I bear witness of myself, my witness is true; for I know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye know not whence I come, or whither I go.
14Jesus answered and said unto them, Though I bear record of myself, yet my record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go.
Commentary · verse 14
Jesus stated that even if He did bear witness of Himself, it would be true. However, Jesus did not bear witness of Himself.
15Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man.
15Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man.
Commentary · verse 15
Jesus judged no man while He was on earth - John 3:17. Jesus did not come to condemn.
16Yea and if I judge, my judgment is true; for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me.
17Yea and in your law it is written, that the witness of two men is true.
16And yet if I judge, my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me.
17It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true.
Commentary · verses 16-17
Jesus referenced Deuteronomy 17:6.
18I am he that beareth witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.
19They said therefore unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered, Ye know neither me, nor my Father: if ye knew me, ye would know my Father also.
18I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.
19Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered, Ye neither know me, nor my Father: if ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also.
Commentary · verses 18-19
Jesus explained why Him bearing witness of Himself wouldn't be prideful: because it would be the Father bearing witness of Jesus through Jesus because Jesus only did what the Father told Him to do, which was grace. Again, Jesus was speaking indirectly. Jesus did not state the Father was God. The Pharisees tried to get Him to state that. Jesus' response was to tell them they did not know the Father. Jesus indirectly told the religious leaders of His time they did not know God.
20These words spake he in the treasury, as he taught in the temple: and no man took him; because his hour was not yet come.
20These words spake Jesus in the treasury, as he taught in the temple: and no man laid hands on him; for his hour was not yet come.
Commentary · verse 20
Jesus was becoming much more bold during the final six months of His public ministry.
21He said therefore again unto them, I go away, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sin: whither I go, ye cannot come.
21Then said Jesus again unto them, I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come.
Commentary · verse 21
Again, Jesus made an indirect statement about being the Son of God.
22The Jews therefore said, Will he kill himself, that he saith, Whither I go, ye cannot come?
23And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.
22Then said the Jews, Will he kill himself? because he saith, Whither I go, ye cannot come.
23And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.
Commentary · verses 22-23
Again, Jesus made an indirect statement about being the Son of God. Also, Jesus continued to show people the difference between the physical and the spiritual.
24I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for except ye believe that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
24I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
Commentary · verse 24
Another indirect statement about being the Son of God.
25They said therefore unto him, Who art thou? Jesus said unto them, Even that which I have also spoken unto you from the beginning.
26I have many things to speak and to judge concerning you: howbeit he that sent me is true; and the things which I heard from him, these speak I unto the world.
27They perceived not that he spake to them of the Father.
25Then said they unto him, Who art thou? And Jesus saith unto them, Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning.
26I have many things to say and to judge of you: but he that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of him.
27They understood not that he spake to them of the Father.
Commentary · verses 25-27
The people asked Him to state it plainly, but Jesus continued to make indirect statements about being the Son of God. This showed Jesus had not stated plainly that He was the Son of God.
28Jesus therefore said, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself, but as the Father taught me, I speak these things.
28Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.
Commentary · verse 28
Here was the proof that Jesus' bearing witness of Himself would not have been prideful.
Doctrine: Jesus did nothing of Himself but only what the Father taught Him. This was the definition of grace: the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life. Jesus did not do anything out of His own God Nature. He operated in His human nature and let God's influence work through Him. It is possible for us to do this as well.
29And he that sent me is with me; he hath not left me alone; for I do always the things that are pleasing to him.
29And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.
Commentary · verse 29
Doctrine: Jesus always did what pleased the Father. Hebrews 11:6 - "But without faith it is impossible to please Him..." Jesus' actions were always an effect of His faith in God the Father.
Doctrines on this passage
30As he spake these things, many believed on him.
30As he spake these words, many believed on him.
Commentary · verse 30
Many believed because of the words Jesus spoke. There were people who understood what Jesus' indirect statements meant.
31Jesus therefore said to those Jews that had believed him, If ye abide in my word, then are ye truly my disciples; 32and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
33They answered unto him, We are Abraham’s seed, and have never yet been in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
34Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Every one that committeth sin is the bondservant of sin.
31Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
33They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
34Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
Commentary · verses 31-34
Doctrine: Man is in bondage because of the sin man commits. Jesus offered a way to be released of that bondage: abide (live) in His Word. Notice, these people believed on Jesus and Jesus responded by turning up the tension on these "believers."
35And the bondservant abideth not in the house for ever: the son abideth for ever.
36If therefore the Son shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
37I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; yet ye seek to kill me, because my word hath not free course in you.
38I speak the things which I have seen with my Father: and ye also do the things which ye heard from your father.
39They answered and said unto him, Our father is Abraham. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham.
35And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
36If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
37I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you.
38I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father.
39They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham.
Commentary · verses 35-39
Jesus told them that if they were Abraham's children, they would do the works of Abraham (by faith - Hebrews 11:8-19). These people did not see God as their Father. They saw Abraham as their Father.
40But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I heard from God: this did not Abraham.
40But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham.
Commentary · verse 40
This was the most direct statement Jesus made during this discussion. Jesus blatantly stated He had been telling them the truth He heard from God. Jesus also stated that Abraham did not do this. Jesus had addressed every loose end in this discussion. Notice, Jesus did not state directly/plainly that He was the Son of God in this sentence. However, the crowd could take the previous part of this discussion and substitute "God the Father" in for every time Jesus said "Father" and realize Jesus was stating He was the Son of God.
41Ye do the works of your father. They said unto him, We were not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.
41Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.
Commentary · verse 41
These "believers" just told Jesus that He was born of fornication. They apparently knew Joseph was not His Father, either previous to this discussion or because of the discussion. Jesus had just shown them that claiming Abraham as Father was misguided. These people now wanted to claim God as their Father...and because they were more focused on being right, they wanted to see Jesus as not having claimed God as His Father. This was the moment when the people made a critical mistake in their thinking and would prove they were actually not believers.
42Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I came forth and am come from God; for neither have I come of myself, but he sent me.
42Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.
Commentary · verse 42
Again, Jesus did not directly/plainly say God was His Father or that He was the Son of God in this sentence. However, this sentence was now the most direct/plain statement Jesus had made during this discussion. The people should have understood what Jesus was saying because He had tied up every loose end with this sentence.
43Why do ye not understand my speech? Even because ye cannot hear my word.
43Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.
Commentary · verse 43
Jesus was completely aware that He had said enough for everyone to believe He had stated He was the Son of God, without directly/plainly stating "I am the Son of God." Jesus concluded their inability to understand was because they could not hear His word because...
44Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and standeth not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father thereof.
44Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
Commentary · verse 44
Jesus stated they were not believers because their father was the devil!
Doctrine: There is no truth in the devil. The devil can state facts. So, truth has to be something different than facts.
- A fact is a right WHAT: knowledge. The devil puffed up in pride because of knowledge. The devil cannot create. He can only destroy. Truth is more than facts and it creates. Truth is facts that create (a right WHAT with a right HOW/WHY).
- A right WHY is understanding. Understanding creates new knowledge. The devil has knowledge but no understanding. Faith is built by understanding and experience. The devil does not have faith.
- A right HOW is wisdom: an action that creates. The devil does not have wisdom.
45But because I say the truth, ye believe me not.
46Which of you convicteth me of sin? If I say truth, why do ye not believe me?
47He that is of God heareth the words of God: for this cause ye hear them not, because ye are not of God.
45And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not.
46Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?
47He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.
Commentary · verses 45-47
Jesus presented a short proof: Jesus spoke truth and they did not believe. They did not prove He sinned. Those who ARE of God have the ability to understand God's Words. So it must be that those who are not of God will not understand the Words of God.
Doctrines on this passage
48The Jews answered and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a demon?
48Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?
Commentary · verse 48
The Jews looked for a way to ignore Jesus' proof. Their method was to get Jesus to admit He was a Samaritan (the Jews' enemy) and that He had a demon. They must have been really desperate.
49Jesus answered, I have not a demon; but I honor my Father, and ye dishonor me.
49Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me.
Commentary · verse 49
Jesus directly/plainly answered the demon question.
50But I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth.
51Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my word, he shall never see death.
50And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth.
51Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.
Commentary · verses 50-51
Jesus reiterated that He did not seek His own glory. Then He made an indirect statement as to His Deity.
52The Jews said unto him, Now we know that thou hast a demon. Abraham died, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my word, he shall never taste of death.
52Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.
Commentary · verse 52
These Jews did not understand Jesus, either because they did not understand eternal life or they were so upset they were not able to think clearly.
53Art thou greater than our father Abraham, who died? and the prophets died: whom makest thou thyself?
53Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? and the prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself?
Commentary · verse 53
These Jews asked Jesus if He was greater than Abraham and the prophets. The answer was yes, however, Jesus had to be careful not to answer this directly/plainly.
54Jesus answered, If I glorify myself, my glory is nothing: it is my Father that glorifieth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God; 55and ye have not known him: but I know him; and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be like unto you, a liar: but I know him, and keep his word.
54Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God:
55Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying.
Commentary · verses 54-55
This complicated answer was made up of two if statements:
- The first IF addressed Jesus' ability to answer yes directly/plainly. He could not because that would be prideful. However, notice the reason why He did not glorify Himself: Jesus said it was His Father who glorified Him and the identity of His Father was, according to the Jews' words, their God. That was about as close as Jesus ever came to directly saying He was the Son of God. He said He was the Son of the person the Jews said was their God. Jesus also made a parenthetical comment that these Jews did not even know the one they claimed was God and Jesus did know the one they claimed was God, without directly/plainly saying the Father was God.
- The second IF statement addressed Jesus' inability to directly/plainly answer no to whether He was greater than Abraham and the prophets. Jesus explained why He could not directly/plainly answer yes or no to their question, while answering yes indirectly with the reason being that He was the Son of their God.
56Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day; and he saw it, and was glad.
56Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.
Commentary · verse 56
Jesus' indirect answer was that Abraham rejoiced to see Jesus' time, Abraham saw it, and it made Abraham glad.
57The Jews therefore said unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?
57Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?
Commentary · verse 57
The Jews stated Jesus was not even fifty years old (which was the retirement age for those in service to God) and then asked if He had seen Abraham. They were not ready for the answer they would get.
58Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was born, I am.
58Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
Commentary · verse 58
Doctrine: Jesus was from the beginning. "Before Abraham was, I AM (Yahweh)." Jesus essentially stated He was GOD. This still was not a direct/plain statement that He was the Son of God.
59They took up stones therefore to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple.
59Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.
Commentary · verse 59
Jesus had stated He was greater than Abraham (and the prophets) and the people tried to stone Him. This chapter began with a mob trying to stone an adulteress in the temple and Jesus finding a way for her to avoid it. Here, it ended with the mob trying to stone Jesus in the temple and Jesus avoiding it.
Where You Stopped
John 9
1And as he passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth.
2And his disciples asked him, saying, Rabbi, who sinned, this man, or his parents, that he should be born blind?
3Jesus answered, Neither did this man sin, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.
1And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.
2And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?
3Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.
Commentary · verses 1-3
The Disciples asked Jesus whose fault it was that a man was born blind. Jesus said the cause was neither the man's nor his parent's fault, but that the works of God would be shown in Jesus.
4We must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
5When I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
6When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and anointed his eyes with the clay, 7and said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam (which is by interpretation, Sent). He went away therefore, and washed, and came seeing.
4I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
5As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
6When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,
7And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.
Commentary · verses 4-7
Jesus healed the blind man by telling him to wash in the pool of Siloam after putting clay in his eyes made with Jesus' spit.
8The neighbors therefore, and they that saw him aforetime, that he was a beggar, said, Is not this he that sat and begged?
9Others said, It is he: others said, No, but he is like him. He said, I am he.
8The neighbours therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and begged?
9Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he.
Commentary · verses 8-9
The healed man testified that it was he who was blind and then could see.
10They said therefore unto him, How then were thine eyes opened?
11He answered, The man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to Siloam, and wash: so I went away and washed, and I received sight.
12And they said unto him, Where is he? He saith, I know not.
10Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened?
11He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.
12Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not.
Commentary · verses 10-12
The man confirmed the story but did not know where Jesus was.
13They bring to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind.
14Now it was the sabbath on the day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.
13They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind.
14And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.
Commentary · verses 13-14
These people brought the man to the Pharisees because this healing occurred on the Sabbath. The first time Jesus healed a man on the Sabbath, it resulted in the Pharisees wanting to kill Jesus, and Jesus staying away from Jerusalem for a year and a half of His three year public ministry.
15Again therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he received his sight. And he said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and I see.
16Some therefore of the Pharisees said, This man is not from God, because he keepeth not the sabbath. But others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such signs? And there was a division among them.
15Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.
16Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.
Commentary · verses 15-16
A division among the people started: some judged Jesus as a sinner for not keeping the Sabbath – some justified Jesus because they wondered how a sinner could do such signs.
17They say therefore unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, in that he opened thine eyes? And he said, He is a prophet.
17They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.
Commentary · verse 17
The healed man stated he believed Jesus was a prophet.
18The Jews therefore did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and had received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight,
18But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight.
Commentary · verse 18
The Jews looked to resolve the conflict by claiming the man had not been born blind. They went to his parents to find out.
19and asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see?
20His parents answered and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind: 21but how he now seeth, we know not; or who opened his eyes, we know not: ask him; he is of age; he shall speak for himself.
19And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see?
20His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:
21But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.
Commentary · verses 19-21
The parents confirmed that he was born blind but they told the people to ask their son how he could see because "he is of age." Clearly, the parents did not want to get involved in this dispute.
22These things said his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man should confess him to be Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
22These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
Commentary · verse 22
It was well known that anyone who confessed Jesus as Messiah would be put out of the synagogue, and this was why the healed man's parents did not want to be involved in this dispute.
23Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.
24So they called a second time the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give glory to God: we know that this man is a sinner.
25He therefore answered, Whether he is a sinner, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.
23Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.
24Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner.
25He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.
Commentary · verses 23-25
The Pharisees tried to convince the man Jesus was a sinner by just stating it. The healed man stated the only fact he knew for sure: he was blind and now he saw.
26They said therefore unto him, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes?
27He answered them, I told you even now, and ye did not hear; wherefore would ye hear it again? would ye also become his disciples?
26Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes?
27He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples?
Commentary · verses 26-27
Notice, the Pharisees' focus became how Jesus healed the man, essentially admitting the man was healed. Furthermore, the healed man was handling the Pharisees excellently. He was trying to get them to state their objective. He wanted to know why they kept asking him the same question, and would his answer cause them to be Jesus' disciples?
28And they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are disciples of Moses.
29We know that God hath spoken unto Moses: but as for this man, we know not whence he is.
28Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses’ disciples.
29We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is.
Commentary · verses 28-29
These Pharisees stated their frustration with Jesus.
30The man answered and said unto them, Why, herein is the marvel, that ye know not whence he is, and yet he opened mine eyes.
31We know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and do his will, him he heareth.
32Since the world began it was never heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind.
33If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.
30The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes.
31Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.
32Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind.
33If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.
Commentary · verses 30-33
The healed man presented his own short proof:
- I was healed.
- We have never heard of a person being healed after being born blind so God had to be a part of this healing.
- God does not hear sinners.
Conclusion: Jesus must have been from God.
Conclusion: Worse, you religious leaders did not know Jesus, which meant you did not know God.
34They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
34They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
Commentary · verse 34
These Pharisees were in pride and cast him out of the synagogue because he was teaching them. What would it say about religious leaders today who refuse to be taught by members of their congregation? Notice, this man born blind was the first recorded person to be persecuted for his belief in Jesus!
35Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and finding him, he said, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?
35Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?
Commentary · verse 35
Jesus heard about the man being cast out and Jesus found him. Jesus asked him if he believed on the Son of God.
36He answered and said, And who is he, Lord, that I may believe on him?
37Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and he it is that speaketh with thee.
38And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.
36He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?
37And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.
38And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.
Commentary · verses 36-38
Notice, Jesus indirectly revealed to the man that He was the Son of God through a question and a statement, neither of which directly/plainly stated, "I am the Son of God."
Jesus' answer in verse 37 meant nothing by itself: "Thou hast both seen him, and he it is that speaketh with thee." Jesus' statement only takes on deeper meaning when we realize what the formerly blind man said. The man responded by confessing his faith in Jesus and worshipping Him: SAY and DO.
39And Jesus said, For judgment came I into this world, that they that see not may see; and that they that see may become blind.
40Those of the Pharisees who were with him heard these things, and said unto him, Are we also blind?
41Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye would have no sin: but now ye say, We see: your sin remaineth.
39And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
40And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?
41Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.
Commentary · verses 39-41
The Pharisees heard Jesus reveal to the blind man that He was the Son of God, indirectly. The Pharisees witnessed all the words from Jesus that caused the formerly blind man to confess Jesus as the Son of God. However, this did not result in the Pharisees confessing Jesus as the Son of God! The Pharisees not only lost their ability to think rationally, their response was to think about themselves: Are we also blind? Jesus' answer began with an if: IF you were blind then you would have an excuse and not be sinning. However, because you say that you see, your sin remains. The formerly blind man and the Pharisees saw the same thing with the man born blind accepting Jesus as the Son of God and the Pharisees rejecting Jesus.
Commentary · verse 41
This day's reading covered events that happened at the beginning of the last six months of Jesus' three year public ministry.
The feast of Tabernacles was the last of the Seven Feasts of God listed in Leviticus 23. Passover was the first feast and it occurred during the first month of the Jewish religious year, in our spring. Tabernacles was the seventh (last) feast and occurred six months after Passover. Passover commemorated Israel's freedom from slavery. Tabernacles was an eight day feast commemorating Israel's time in the desert ending with Israel's entrance into the Promised Land. The priests poured water on the altar and lit lamps as a remembrance for God giving them water out of the rock in Horeb and leading them at night by a pillar of fire. Jesus spent a year and a half of His public ministry in Galilee, away from the religious leaders and Jerusalem.