King James Version
What Does John 10:37 Mean?
“If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.”
Context
35
If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken;
36
Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?
37
If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.
38
But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.
39
Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped out of their hand,
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(37) **If I do not the works of my Father.**—He has met the charge of blasphemy on technical grounds. In this and the following verse He advances from that defence to the ultimate test. Whether He is a blasphemer or not depends upon whether He represents God or not, and to prove this He appeals again to the works. Are they or are they not the works of the Father? (John 10:32; comp. John 5:17; John 5:36; John 9:3; John 14:10.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 10:37 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 10:37
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge