John 3:33
He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
λαβὼν
He that hath received
G2983
λαβὼν
He that hath received
Strong's:
G2983
Word #:
2 of 11
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
αὐτοῦ
his
G846
αὐτοῦ
his
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 11
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐσφράγισεν
hath set to his seal
G4972
ἐσφράγισεν
hath set to his seal
Strong's:
G4972
Word #:
6 of 11
to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
7 of 11
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Hebrews 6:17Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:Ephesians 1:13In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,John 6:27Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.2 Corinthians 1:18But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay.2 Corinthians 1:22Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
Historical Context
Sealing documents was common authentication. By receiving Christ, believers 'sign off' on God's integrity. This connects to covenant faithfulness—God promised a Messiah, and receiving Jesus acknowledges fulfillment. Rejection implies God is false; reception declares Him true.
Questions for Reflection
- How does receiving Christ affirm God's faithfulness to His promises?
- What does 'setting your seal' mean practically in your relationship with Christ?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
'He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.' Those who do receive Christ's testimony thereby confirm God's truthfulness. Receiving Christ is a double affirmation—of Christ's identity and God's faithfulness in sending Him. The 'seal' imagery suggests authentication, commitment, and ownership. To believe Christ is to seal one's conviction that God keeps His promises.