John 14:29
And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
νῦν
now
G3568
νῦν
now
Strong's:
G3568
Word #:
2 of 10
"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate
εἴρηκα
I have told
G2046
εἴρηκα
I have told
Strong's:
G2046
Word #:
3 of 10
an alternate for g2036 in certain tenses; to utter, i.e., speak or say
γένηται
it come to pass
G1096
γένηται
it come to pass
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
6 of 10
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
ὅταν
when
G3752
ὅταν
when
Strong's:
G3752
Word #:
8 of 10
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
Historical Context
When these predictions came true—crucifixion, resurrection, ascension—the disciples' faith solidified. Acts records their bold proclamation, rooted in fulfilled prophecy. Thomas's doubt (John 20:24-29) vanished when Jesus appeared; the disciples' fear transformed to courage when they witnessed what Jesus had foretold.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus's predictive prophecy demonstrate His divine foreknowledge and strengthen faith when fulfilled?
- What role should fulfilled biblical prophecy play in apologetics and personal assurance of faith?
- How can Christians prepare others through teaching so unexpected trials don't destroy their faith?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe (καὶ νῦν εἴρηκα ὑμῖν πρὶν γενέσθαι, ἵνα ὅταν γένηται πιστεύσητε, kai nyn eirēka hymin prin genesthai, hina hotan genētai pisteusēte)—Jesus predicts His death, resurrection, and return to the Father before it happens, so that when fulfilled, it will strengthen faith. The purpose clause ἵνα...πιστεύσητε (hina...pisteusēte, 'in order that you might believe') indicates that prophecy's fulfillment validates Jesus's divine knowledge and mission.
This principle—prophecy preceding fulfillment to confirm faith—operates throughout Scripture. Jesus repeatedly predicted His passion (Matthew 16:21; 17:22-23; 20:18-19) so disciples wouldn't stumble when it occurred. Fulfilled prophecy removes the excuse of doubt—God provides evidence before events to demonstrate sovereign control over history.