John 8:55

Ndebele Bible - 2010

njalo kalimazanga.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from John's Gospel, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, saying that they don't truly know God, but he does and he lives according to God’s teachings.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a friend who knows your parents really well. You might not understand everything about them, but your friend can tell stories about what they’re like. Jesus is telling the Pharisees that He understands God much better than they do because He spends all His time following and teaching about God.

Historical Background

John's Gospel was written around 90-100 AD by John the Apostle, who was one of Jesus' closest followers. This verse reflects a conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees in Jerusalem, where religious leaders were skeptical about Jesus’ claims.

Living It Out Today

In today’s world, we can apply this message when we see people claiming to know something deeply but not actually living by its principles. For example, someone might say they love nature but support harmful environmental practices.

Topics

• faith
• knowledge
• truth
• teaching
• relationship with God
• Pharisees

Related Verses

• John 17:3
• Psalm 95:7
• Matthew 28:19-20
• Acts 4:12
• Revelation 3:8

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Jesus say the Pharisees do not know God?

Jesus believed that true knowledge of God involves more than just understanding facts or teachings; it includes living according to those teachings. The Pharisees, in his view, had a superficial relationship with God.

What does 'keep his saying' mean in this context?

'Keep his saying' refers to Jesus' commitment to following and teaching the words of God. It emphasizes that he lived out what he knew about God.

How can someone truly know God according to John 8:55?

According to this verse, knowing God involves both understanding who He is and living in accordance with His teachings, as exemplified by Jesus.

What does it mean for Jesus to be 'like unto you' if he says he doesn't know God?

Jesus uses a rhetorical device here to emphasize the truth of his claim. He’s saying that if he were not telling the truth about knowing God, he would be lying just like those who do not truly understand or follow God.