New Testament
John 7:20
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The crowd answered, "You have a demon! Who is trying to kill you?"
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The people answered and said, Thou hast a devil: who goeth about to kill thee?
What John 7:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the crowd responds to Jesus' statements with disbelief and accusation. They claim that He has a demon, suggesting that His words are irrational or influenced by evil. This reaction highlights the tension between Jesus and the people, who are confused about His identity and mission. The mention of someone trying to kill Him indicates that they are unaware of the deeper spiritual conflict at play. Jesus had been speaking about His authority and the truth of His message, but the crowd's response shows their inability to grasp who He truly is. Their reaction reflects a common theme in the Gospels, where Jesus is often misunderstood or rejected by those around Him. This moment serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who speak truth in a world that may not be ready to hear it.
How to apply John 7:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to remain steadfast in our beliefs, even when faced with misunderstanding or hostility. It reminds us that speaking the truth can lead to accusations and rejection, but we should continue to share our faith with love and clarity, trusting in God's purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: At the Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:10–52)
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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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Key themes
Related topics
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 7:20 mean?
In John 7:20, the crowd accuses Jesus of having a demon, showing their disbelief in His claims and misunderstanding of His mission. Their response reflects confusion about His identity and the spiritual conflict surrounding Him.
What is the significance of the crowd's reaction in John 7:20?
The crowd's reaction in John 7:20 highlights the tension between Jesus and the people, illustrating how often He was misunderstood and rejected. It emphasizes the challenges faced by those who speak truth in a world that may not accept it.
How does John 7:20 relate to the theme of misunderstanding Jesus?
John 7:20 exemplifies the theme of misunderstanding Jesus, as the crowd's response reveals their confusion and rejection of His message. This moment is part of a broader pattern in the Gospels where Jesus is often not recognized for who He truly is.
What can we learn from John 7:20 about facing rejection?
John 7:20 teaches that speaking the truth can lead to misunderstanding and rejection. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our beliefs and continue sharing our faith, even when faced with hostility.
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