New Testament
John 7:47
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The Pharisees answered them, "Have you been deceived too?"
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Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived?
What John 7:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Pharisees are responding to the temple guards who had been sent to arrest Jesus but returned without him. The Pharisees are incredulous and question whether the guards have been misled or deceived by Jesus' teachings. This reflects their growing concern about Jesus' influence and popularity among the people. The Pharisees, who are religious leaders, are worried that their authority is being undermined. They see the guards' failure to arrest Jesus as a sign that the people might be swayed by his message, which challenges their interpretations of the law and their control over religious practices. This moment highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, showcasing the conflict between established beliefs and new teachings. The Pharisees' question also reveals their arrogance and unwillingness to consider the possibility that they might be wrong about Jesus, emphasizing the theme of spiritual blindness that runs throughout the Gospel of John.
How to apply John 7:47 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own beliefs and be open to new truths. Just as the Pharisees questioned the guards, we should be willing to question our assumptions and seek understanding. It reminds us to be cautious of pride and to remain humble in our faith journey.
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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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Keep studying John 7:47
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 7:47 mean?
In John 7:47, the Pharisees express disbelief towards the temple guards who returned without arresting Jesus. They question whether the guards have been deceived by Jesus' teachings, indicating their concern over his growing influence and the challenge he poses to their authority.
What is the significance of the Pharisees' question in John 7:47?
The Pharisees' question highlights their arrogance and refusal to consider that they might be wrong about Jesus. It reflects the tension between established religious authority and the new teachings Jesus presents, emphasizing the theme of spiritual blindness.
Why did the Pharisees doubt the guards in John 7:47?
The Pharisees doubted the guards because they were surprised that the guards returned without arresting Jesus. This reaction shows their fear that Jesus' popularity and message were influencing even those tasked with stopping him.
What themes are present in John 7:47?
John 7:47 presents themes of religious authority, deception, spiritual blindness, and the conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders. It illustrates the struggle between traditional beliefs and the new teachings Jesus offers.
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