John 10:42
What does John 10:42 mean?
A plain-English look at John 10:42 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 10:42 means
The chapter closes on a note of grace: “many believed on him there.” Away from the clamor of hostile debate, the Shepherd’s voice is heard and trusted. Faith blooms where humble hearts receive the combined testimony of John’s words and Jesus’ works. This outcome anticipates the ongoing expansion of His flock, first in Israel’s margins and soon among the nations. The Good Shepherd gathers His own, and no opposition can finally hinder His purpose. Those who enter by Him are saved and nourished, kept forever in the strong hands of the Son and the Father, united as one.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And many believed on him there.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And many believed on him there.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And many believed on him there.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And a number came to have faith in him there.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and many did believe in him there.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752But all things whatsoever John said of this man were true. And many believed n him.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And many believed on him there.
Context
Following the reflection on John’s truthful witness (verse 41), verse 42 records its fruit—many believe in Jesus. This concluding scene contrasts with the rejection in Jerusalem and confirms the chapter’s central claims: Jesus is the door and the Good Shepherd, known by His sheep, granting them abundant life and eternal security. The narrative prepares the way for the further unfolding of His mission and the mounting opposition that will lead to His voluntary, life-giving death.
v.41And many came unto him; and they said, John indeed did no sign: but all things whatsoever John spake of this man were true.
v.42This passage
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 11:45
Many therefore of the Jews, who came to Mary and beheld that which he did, believed on him.
- John 7:31
But 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?
- John 4:41
And many more believed because of his word;
- John 4:39
And from that city many of the Samaritans believed on him because of the word of the woman, who testified, He told me all things thateverI did.
- John 12:42
Nevertheless even of the rulers many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess it, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:
- John 8:30
As he spake these things, many believed on him.
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