John 16:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 16:2
2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.
Chapter Context
John 16 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, worship, grace. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 16:2
2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.
Analysis
Put you out of the synagogues (ἀποσυναγώγους ποιήσουσιν, aposynagōgous poiēsousin)—this compound word (apo = from, synagōgē = assembly) describes formal excommunication, the severest form of Jewish discipline. For first-century Jews, this meant complete social, religious, and economic ostracism from the covenant community.
Think that he doeth God service (δόξῃ λατρείαν προσφέρειν τῷ θεῷ, doxē latreian prospherein tō theō)—the word latreia denotes religious worship or sacred service. Jesus exposes the tragic irony: persecutors will murder believers while sincerely convinced they're offering worship to God. Paul exemplified this (Acts 26:9-11) before his Damascus Road conversion, 'breathing out threatenings and slaughter' while zealous for God's honor.
Historical Context
The cherem or ban had three degrees in Judaism: niddui (30-day exclusion), cherem (indefinite ban), and shammatha (complete anathema). By AD 85-90, the Birkat ha-Minim (blessing against heretics) was added to synagogue liturgy, formally cursing Christians. Saul of Tarsus exemplifies the 'sacred violence' Jesus predicted—hunting believers while convinced of serving God (Acts 8:3, 9:1-2).
Reflection
- How can sincere religious zeal become dangerously misdirected when divorced from truth and love?
- What does it cost you socially or professionally to identify publicly with Christ?
- How does Jesus's warning help you respond with grace toward those who oppose you for religious reasons?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Revelation 6:9
- Parallel theme: John 9:22, 12:42, Isaiah 66:5, Matthew 10:28, 24:9, Luke 6:22