King James Version

What Does John 3:33 Mean?

John 3:33 in the King James Version says “He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. — study this verse from John chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.

John 3:33 · KJV


Context

31

He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly , and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.

32

And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.

33

He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.

34

For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.

35

The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.' Those who do receive Christ's testimony thereby confirm God's truthfulness. Receiving Christ is a double affirmation—of Christ's identity and God's faithfulness in sending Him. The 'seal' imagery suggests authentication, commitment, and ownership. To believe Christ is to seal one's conviction that God keeps His promises.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Sealing documents was common authentication. By receiving Christ, believers 'sign off' on God's integrity. This connects to covenant faithfulness—God promised a Messiah, and receiving Jesus acknowledges fulfillment. Rejection implies God is false; reception declares Him true.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does receiving Christ affirm God's faithfulness to His promises?
  2. What does 'setting your seal' mean practically in your relationship with Christ?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
1 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

λαβὼν2 of 11

He that hath received

G2983

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

αὐτοῦ3 of 11

his

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

τὴν4 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

μαρτυρίαν5 of 11

testimony

G3141

evidence given (judicially or genitive case)

ἐσφράγισεν6 of 11

hath set to his seal

G4972

to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest

ὅτι7 of 11

that

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

8 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θεὸς9 of 11

God

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

ἀληθής10 of 11

true

G227

true (as not concealing)

ἐστιν11 of 11

is

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are


Study Guide

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 3:33 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 3:33 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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