New Testament
John 16:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They will do these things because they have not known the Father or me.
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And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.
What John 16:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is explaining to His disciples that the persecution and hardships they will face are a result of people's ignorance about God and Jesus Himself. Those who do not know the Father or Jesus lack understanding of His love, grace, and truth. This ignorance leads them to act in ways that oppose the teachings of Christ. Jesus is preparing His followers for the reality that their faith may provoke hostility from those who do not recognize the divine nature of His message. The emphasis is on the relationship between knowing God and how it influences behavior. When people are disconnected from this knowledge, they may resort to actions that are harmful or unjust, often targeting those who represent Christ. This verse serves as a reminder that the struggles faced by believers are not personal attacks but rather a reflection of a deeper spiritual blindness in the world.
How to apply John 16:3 to your life
As believers, we should expect challenges and opposition due to our faith. This verse encourages us to remain steadfast and compassionate towards those who do not understand God. We can respond with love and patience, seeking to share the truth of Christ with them.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Comforts His Disciples (John 14:1–16:33)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying John 16:3
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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 16:3 mean?
John 16:3 means that people who do not know God or Jesus will act in ways that oppose the teachings of Christ. Their lack of understanding leads to persecution and hardship for believers.
What is the significance of knowing the Father in John 16:3?
Knowing the Father in John 16:3 is crucial because it influences how people behave. Those who lack this knowledge may resort to actions that harm others, particularly those who represent Christ.
Why will people persecute believers according to John 16:3?
According to John 16:3, people will persecute believers because they do not know the Father or Jesus. This ignorance results in hostility towards those who follow Christ.
What does spiritual blindness mean in John 16:3?
Spiritual blindness in John 16:3 refers to a lack of understanding or awareness of God's love and truth. This blindness can lead individuals to act against believers and the message of Christ.
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