John 2:25
What does John 2:25 mean?
A plain-English look at John 2:25 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 2:25 means
This verse elaborates on why Jesus did not fully entrust Himself to those who believed in Him superficially: "he himself knew what was in man." He did not require external testimony about human character because His divine nature granted Him intrinsic knowledge of every person's true motives, thoughts, and intentions. This omniscient understanding highlights His divine attributes, contrasting genuine faith with superficial acceptance, and underscores that He sees beyond outward appearances to the heart of humanity, revealing His deity.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000and because he needed not that any one should bear witness concerning man; for he himself knew what was in man.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901and because he needed not that any one should bear witness concerning man; for he himself knew what was in man.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949He had no need for any witness about man; for he himself had knowledge of what was in man.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and because he had no need that any should testify concerning man, for he himself was knowing what was in man.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And because he needed not that any should give testimony of man: for he knew what was in man.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890and that he had not need that any should testify of man, for himself knew what was in man.
Context
This verse provides the ultimate explanation for Jesus' cautious approach in the previous verse, firmly establishing His divine omniscience. It concludes the chapter by emphasizing Jesus' profound understanding of human nature, which is a powerful demonstration of His deity. This final point sets a standard for genuine faith, serving as an important theological statement about the object of faith and laying groundwork for the subsequent dialogue with Nicodemus in Chapter 3.
v.24But Jesus did not trust himself unto them, for that he knew all men,
v.25This passage
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 6:61
But Jesus knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at this, said unto them, Doth this cause you to stumble?
- John 6:64
But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who it was that should betray him.
- Matthew 9:4
And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?
- John 13:11
For he knew him that should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.
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