John 8:27
They understood not that he spake to them of the Father.
Original Language Analysis
ἔγνωσαν
They understood
G1097
ἔγνωσαν
They understood
Strong's:
G1097
Word #:
2 of 7
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
3 of 7
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 7
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πατέρα
of the Father
G3962
πατέρα
of the Father
Strong's:
G3962
Word #:
5 of 7
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
Historical Context
Despite Jesus' consistent teaching about His relationship with the Father, the religious leaders remained blind to His meaning, demonstrating that spiritual truth requires spiritual capacity to understand.
Questions for Reflection
- What causes spiritual blindness even when truth is clearly taught?
- How does the Spirit enable understanding of spiritual truth?
- When have you failed to understand Scripture until the Spirit illuminated it?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
John notes they didn't understand Jesus spoke of the Father. This spiritual blindness despite clear teaching demonstrates the truth of 1 Corinthians 2:14 - natural man cannot receive spiritual things. Understanding requires spiritual illumination, not merely hearing words. This illustrates the Reformed doctrine that regeneration precedes and enables spiritual comprehension.