New Testament
John 5:36
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes that His testimony is more significant than that of John the Baptist.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
But I have a greater testimony than John's, for the works that the Father has given me to accomplish — the very works that I am doing — testify about me that the Father has sent me.
But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes that His testimony is more significant than that of John the Baptist. He points to the miraculous works He performs as evidence of His divine mission. These works, which include healing the sick and performing miracles, are not just acts of compassion; they serve as proof that God the Father has sent Him. Jesus is asserting that His actions validate His identity and purpose. By performing these works, He demonstrates His authority and connection to the Father, showing that He is indeed the Messiah. This statement invites listeners to recognize the divine origin of His ministry and the truth of His message. It highlights the importance of understanding Jesus not just through the words of others, like John, but through the powerful evidence of His own actions, which reveal His relationship with God and His role in salvation.
How to apply John 5:36 to your life
We can reflect on the works of Jesus in our lives today. By observing how God acts in our circumstances, we can strengthen our faith and share our experiences with others. Our actions should also reflect our faith, serving as a testimony to those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 5:36 mean?
John 5:36 means that Jesus claims His works, such as miracles and healings, are a stronger testimony of His divine mission than that of John the Baptist. He emphasizes that these actions prove He was sent by God the Father.
What is the significance of Jesus' works in John 5:36?
In John 5:36, Jesus' works are significant because they serve as evidence of His authority and identity as the Messiah. They demonstrate that His mission is divinely ordained and validate His message.
How does John 5:36 relate to the identity of Jesus?
John 5:36 relates to the identity of Jesus by showing that His miraculous works confirm He is sent by God. This verse highlights that understanding Jesus involves recognizing the power and purpose behind His actions.
What does 'greater testimony' mean in John 5:36?
'Greater testimony' in John 5:36 refers to the idea that Jesus' own miraculous works provide a more compelling proof of His divine mission than the testimony of John the Baptist. It underscores the importance of His actions in revealing His true nature.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
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