New Testament
John 10:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The Jews answered him, "We are not stoning you for a good work, but for blasphemy — because you, being a man, make yourself God."
Compare translations
The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.
What John 10:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Jewish leaders confront Jesus about his claims. They clarify that their intention to stone him is not due to any good deeds he has performed, but rather because they believe he is committing blasphemy. They are particularly offended by his assertion that he is equal to God, which they see as a serious violation of their religious beliefs. This moment highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities of the time, as they struggle to understand his true identity and mission. The accusation of blasphemy reflects their interpretation of the law and their commitment to monotheism, which they feel Jesus is undermining. This confrontation sets the stage for further conflict and ultimately leads to the events of the crucifixion, as the leaders seek to protect their authority and beliefs against what they perceive as a threat from Jesus.
How to apply John 10:33 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider how we respond to claims about Jesus' identity. Are we open to understanding who he truly is, or do we hold onto preconceived notions? It encourages us to seek a deeper relationship with God and to recognize the significance of Jesus' claims.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about John 10:33
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying John 10:33
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 10:33 mean?
John 10:33 describes a confrontation between Jesus and Jewish leaders who accuse him of blasphemy. They claim he is making himself equal to God, which they believe violates their religious laws.
What is the significance of blasphemy in John 10:33?
Blasphemy in John 10:33 refers to the accusation that Jesus is claiming divine status. This accusation reflects the serious nature of his claims and the tension between him and the religious authorities.
What are the main themes in John 10:33?
The main themes in John 10:33 include blasphemy, the identity of Jesus, conflict between religious authority and Jesus, and the struggle between faith and law.
Why did the Jews want to stone Jesus in John 10:33?
The Jews wanted to stone Jesus because they believed he was committing blasphemy by claiming to be God. Their reaction highlights their commitment to monotheism and their view of Jesus as a threat.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.