John 5:31
If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.
Original Language Analysis
ἐὰν
If
G1437
ἐὰν
If
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
1 of 11
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
μαρτυρῶ
bear witness
G3140
μαρτυρῶ
bear witness
Strong's:
G3140
Word #:
3 of 11
to be a witness, i.e., testify (literally or figuratively)
περὶ
of
G4012
περὶ
of
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
4 of 11
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
ἐμαυτοῦ
myself
G1683
ἐμαυτοῦ
myself
Strong's:
G1683
Word #:
5 of 11
of myself so likewise the dative case ?????? <pronunciation strongs="em-ow-to'"/>, and accusative case ??????? <pronunciation strongs="em-ow-ton'"/>
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Jewish legal procedure required at least two witnesses for establishing truth. Jesus' argument follows rabbinical reasoning while transcending it—His witnesses include not just human testimony but divine attestation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God provide multiple lines of evidence for Christ's identity and mission?
- What is the relationship between legal validity and spiritual truth in establishing Christ's claims?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus acknowledges that His testimony alone wouldn't be legally valid ('If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true'), referencing Jewish law requiring multiple witnesses (Deuteronomy 17:6). Yet He will demonstrate that multiple witnesses do attest to Him: the Father, John the Baptist, His works, and Scripture. This shows Christ's respect for proper testimony while affirming His divine mission.