John 8:17
It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
G2532
καὶ
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
νόμῳ
law
G3551
νόμῳ
law
Strong's:
G3551
Word #:
4 of 15
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γέγραπται
It is
G1125
γέγραπται
It is
Strong's:
G1125
Word #:
8 of 15
to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
9 of 15
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Deuteronomy 19:15One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.Deuteronomy 17:6At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.Hebrews 10:28He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:Matthew 18:16But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.Galatians 3:24Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.2 Corinthians 13:1This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.Revelation 11:3And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.Galatians 4:21Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?
Historical Context
Referring to 'your law' emphasizes the Pharisees' claim to be law's keepers and interpreters. Jesus demonstrates He knows Torah better than they do and meets its standards perfectly.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus fulfill the law rather than abolishing it?
- What does it mean that Christ meets every righteous requirement?
- How can you rightly use Scripture rather than weaponizing it?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus cites the law the Pharisees claim to uphold: two witnesses establish truth. By Jewish legal standards they profess, His testimony should be accepted. This shows Christ doesn't oppose the law but fulfills it perfectly, meeting even its judicial requirements while transcending them.