John 7:20
The people answered and said, Thou hast a devil: who goeth about to kill thee?
Original Language Analysis
ἀπεκρίθη
answered
G611
ἀπεκρίθη
answered
Strong's:
G611
Word #:
1 of 11
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὄχλος
The people
G3793
ὄχλος
The people
Strong's:
G3793
Word #:
3 of 11
a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἔχεις·
Thou hast
G2192
ἔχεις·
Thou hast
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
7 of 11
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
τίς
who
G5101
τίς
who
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
8 of 11
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
Cross References
John 10:20And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him?John 8:48Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?John 8:52Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.Mark 3:30Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.
Historical Context
The temple treasury was heavily guarded with temple police nearby. That Jesus taught openly there yet remained free illustrates divine protection until the appointed time.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's sovereign timing provide confidence in difficult circumstances?
- When have you seen God's providence protecting you from harm?
- What does Christ's fearless teaching despite threats model for believers?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Despite teaching publicly in the temple treasury where arrests could easily occur, no one seized Jesus because 'his hour was not yet come.' This demonstrates divine sovereignty over all circumstances, including the timing of Christ's death. Reformed theology emphasizes God's providence - all events, even hostile opposition, serve God's redemptive purposes.