New Testament
John 8:49
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Jesus answered, "I am not possessed by a demon. I honor my Father, and you dishonor me.
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Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me.
What John 8:49 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is responding to accusations that he is possessed by a demon. He firmly denies this claim, asserting that he is not influenced by evil. Instead, he emphasizes his commitment to honoring God the Father. By stating that the accusers dishonor him, Jesus highlights the contrast between his mission of glorifying God and the rejection he faces from those who do not recognize his divine authority. This moment illustrates the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders of his time, who fail to see the truth of his identity and purpose. Jesus' response serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring God in our lives and recognizing the truth of who Jesus is, despite opposition or misunderstanding from others. It also reflects the broader theme of the conflict between light and darkness, truth and falsehood, that runs throughout the Gospel of John.
How to apply John 8:49 to your life
This verse encourages us to stand firm in our faith and honor God, even when faced with criticism or misunderstanding. It reminds us to seek truth and recognize Jesus' authority in our lives, rather than succumbing to societal pressures or false accusations.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying John 8:49
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 8:49 mean?
In John 8:49, Jesus responds to accusations of being possessed by a demon by denying the claim and affirming his commitment to honoring God the Father. He points out that while he seeks to glorify God, his accusers dishonor him, highlighting the conflict between his divine mission and their rejection.
What is the significance of honoring God in John 8:49?
Honoring God in John 8:49 emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting divine authority. Jesus contrasts his dedication to God with the dishonor he receives from others, illustrating the challenge of maintaining faith amid opposition.
What does Jesus mean by 'I am not possessed by a demon'?
When Jesus states 'I am not possessed by a demon,' he is firmly rejecting the false accusations made against him. This declaration underscores his identity as the Son of God, free from evil influence, and highlights the misunderstanding of those who oppose him.
How does John 8:49 relate to the theme of truth vs. falsehood?
John 8:49 exemplifies the theme of truth versus falsehood by showcasing Jesus' truthfulness in the face of false accusations. His assertion of honor towards God contrasts sharply with the dishonor he receives, illustrating the broader conflict between divine truth and human misunderstanding.
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