John 7:46
The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.
Original Language Analysis
ἀπεκρίθησαν
answered
G611
ἀπεκρίθησαν
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)
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὑπηρέται
The officers
G5257
ὑπηρέται
The officers
Strong's:
G5257
Word #:
3 of 11
an under-oarsman, i.e., (generally) subordinate (assistant, sexton, constable)
ὡς
like
G5613
ὡς
like
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
8 of 11
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
οὗτος
this
G3778
οὗτος
this
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
9 of 11
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
Historical Context
These officers heard many teachers—the temple was full of rabbis and scribes. Yet Jesus's teaching was qualitatively different—authoritative, clear, compelling. Matthew 7:28-29 records the same response: He taught 'as one having authority, and not as the scribes.' The early church's rapid spread owed partly to the gospel's compelling power—even hostile hearers were convicted (Acts 2:37, 24:25). Church history records many conversions through hearing Scripture or preaching—the Word itself carries divine power.
Questions for Reflection
- What makes Jesus's teaching uniquely authoritative?
- How does gospel truth carry its own power to convince?
- Have you experienced the compelling authority of Christ's words?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The officers answered, Never man spake like this man. The officers' explanation is testimony rather than excuse. 'Never man spake like this man' (oudepote elalēsen houtōs anthrōpos) acknowledges unprecedented authority in Jesus's teaching. They were sent to arrest but remained to listen, overwhelmed by His words. Even hostile hearers recognize something unique about Christ. Reformed theology sees here the power of God's Word—it cannot be bound (2 Timothy 2:9) and accomplishes its purpose (Isaiah 55:11).