John 18:23
What does John 18:23 mean?
A plain-English look at John 18:23 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 18:23 means
Jesus, even after being struck, responds with calm dignity and righteousness. He challenges the officer, \"If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?\" Jesus doesn't retaliate but demands justice, appealing to the principles of fair legal process. He invites His accusers to provide evidence of wrongdoing, exposing the baseless violence and injustice He was enduring.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?
KJV
King James Version · 1611Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Jesus said in answer, If I have said anything evil, give witness to the evil: but if I said what is true, why do you give me blows?
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Jesus answered him, `If I spake ill, testify concerning the ill; and if well, why me dost thou smite?'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Jesus answered him: If I have spoken evil, give testimony of the evil; but if well, why strikest thou me?
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why smitest thou me?
Context
This verse contains Jesus' dignified and just response to being physically struck, directly following the officer's violent act. It shows His adherence to lawful procedure and His refusal to passively accept injustice without challenge, even as He submits to the overall divine plan. This exchange then culminates in Annas sending Him to Caiaphas.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 23:2
And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.
- Matthew 5:39
but I say unto you, Resist not him that is evil: but whosoever smiteth thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
- 1 Peter 2:20
For what glory is it, if, when ye sin, and are buffeted for it, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye shall take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
- 2 Corinthians 10:1
Now I Paul myself entreat you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I who in your presence am lowly among you, but being absent am of good courage toward you:
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore John 18
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on John 18.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Abiding in Christ
Key scriptures reveal what it means to abide in Christ, emphasizing our continuous connection and dependence on Him for spiritual life and fruitfulness.
Topic
Bible Verses About Authority
Authority in the Bible refers to the divinely instituted right to command and influence, often reflecting God's sovereign rule and delegation to human leaders.
Topic
Bible Verses About Bible Reading
The Bible encourages us to read, study, and meditate on God’s Word to grow in faith and wisdom.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Fear of Losing a Loved One
When you can't stop imagining the worst — verses to put your loved one back in God's hands.
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Fear of Death
When you're afraid to die — what scripture promises about the last enemy.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Grief After Losing Someone You Love
When the room is empty — verses that grieve with you, not around you.