John 8:46

Authorized King James Version

Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τίς
Which
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#2
ἐξ
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#3
ὑμῶν
you
of (from or concerning) you
#4
ἐλέγχει
convinceth
to confute, admonish
#5
με
me
me
#6
περὶ
of
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
#7
ἁμαρτίας;
sin
a sin (properly abstract)
#8
εἰ
if
if, whether, that, etc
#9
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#10
ἀλήθειαν
the truth
truth
#11
λέγω,
I say
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#12
διατί
why
through what cause ?, i.e., why?
#13
ὑμεῖς
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#14
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#15
πιστεύετέ
believe
to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch
#16
μοι;
me
to me

Analysis

The faith and obedience theme here intersects with the proper human response to divine revelation across Scripture. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing truth contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The historical context of the late first century during increasing tension between synagogue and church provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The late first-century Jewish-Christian tensions and Hellenistic thought would have shaped how the original audience understood truth. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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