New Testament
John 5:31
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If I testify about myself, my testimony is not valid.
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If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.
What John 5:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of credible testimony. He acknowledges that self-testimony lacks validity in the eyes of others. To establish truth, he points out that external witnesses are necessary. This reflects a broader principle in legal and social contexts where corroboration is essential for credibility. Jesus is preparing to present evidence of his divine authority and mission, indicating that his claims about himself must be supported by other testimonies, such as those of John the Baptist and the works he performs. This statement also serves to highlight the humility of Jesus, as he does not rely solely on his own words but invites others to affirm his identity and purpose. Ultimately, this verse sets the stage for a deeper understanding of who Jesus is and the nature of his ministry, as he will later provide the necessary witnesses to validate his claims.
How to apply John 5:31 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of seeking validation from others when making claims about ourselves. In our lives, we should strive for honesty and allow our actions and the testimonies of others to support our words. This principle can help us build trust and integrity in our relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)
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John the Apostle
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.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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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 5:31 mean?
In John 5:31, Jesus states that his own testimony about himself is not valid. He emphasizes the need for external witnesses to support claims, highlighting the importance of credible testimony.
What is the significance of testimony in John 5:31?
The significance of testimony in John 5:31 lies in the idea that self-claims require validation from others to be credible. Jesus uses this principle to prepare for presenting evidence of his divine authority.
How does John 5:31 relate to humility?
John 5:31 reflects humility as Jesus does not solely rely on his own words to validate his identity. Instead, he invites others to affirm his mission, showing that he values external confirmation.
What does 'my testimony is not valid' mean in John 5:31?
The phrase 'my testimony is not valid' in John 5:31 means that claims made without external support lack credibility. Jesus acknowledges that self-testimony alone is insufficient for establishing truth.
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