John 5:46
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 5:46
46 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.
Chapter Context
John 5 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, prayer, righteousness. 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 21-47: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 5:46
46 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.
Analysis
'For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.' Moses, whom they claimed to follow, wrote about Christ. If they truly believed Moses, they would recognize the one Moses anticipated. The Pentateuch contains messianic prophecy—the seed of the woman, Shiloh, the Prophet like Moses. Genuine faith in Moses leads to faith in Christ; claiming Moses while rejecting Christ reveals false profession.
Historical Context
This challenges the religious leaders' claimed Mosaic authority. Moses pointed forward; Christ is the fulfillment. Genesis 3:15, 49:10, Deuteronomy 18:15-19 all anticipate Christ. Those who truly understood Moses recognized Jesus as fulfillment. Those who rejected Jesus proved they didn't truly believe Moses.
Reflection
- How does Moses' writing point to Christ?
- What does rejection of Christ reveal about claimed faith in Old Testament Scripture?
Word Studies
- Believe: πιστεύω (Pisteuo) G4100 - To believe, trust, have faith
Cross-References
- References Moses: John 1:45, Luke 24:27, Acts 26:22
- Parallel theme: Genesis 3:15, 12:3, 18:18, 22:18, 28:14, 49:10