King James Version

What Does John 5:47 Mean?

John 5:47 in the King James Version says “But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” — study this verse from John chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?”

John 5:47 · KJV

Faith

Context

45

Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust.

46

For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.

47

But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?' The final verse creates devastating logic: if they don't believe Moses' writings (which they claim to follow), how will they believe Jesus? Scripture rejection leads to Christ rejection. Inability to receive written revelation precludes receiving living revelation. Those who deny the truth of Scripture have no foundation for receiving Christ.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse connects Old Testament authority with Christ's authority. To reject Moses is to reject the foundation on which Jesus built. The religious leaders' treatment of Scripture—adding traditions, missing its Christ-centered purpose—explained their treatment of Jesus. Scripture and Christ stand together.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does reception of Scripture relate to reception of Christ?
  2. What does this verse teach about the authority and purpose of the Old Testament?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
εἰ1 of 12

“If”

ei

G1487

if

δὲ2 of 12

“however”

de

G1161

but, and, now

τοῖς3 of 12

tois

G3588

the

ἐκείνου4 of 12

“his”

ekeinou

G1565

that, that one

γράμμασιν5 of 12

“writings”

grammasin

G1121

a letter, writing

οὐ6 of 12

“not”

ou

G3756

not, no

πιστεύετε7 of 12

“you believe”

pisteuete

G4100

to believe, trust

πῶς8 of 12

“how”

pōs

G4459

how, in what way

τοῖς9 of 12

tois

G3588

the

ἐμοῖς10 of 12

“My”

emois

G1699

my, mine

ῥήμασιν11 of 12

“words”

rhēmasin

G4487

a word, saying

πιστεύσετε12 of 12

“will you believe”

pisteusete

G4100

to believe, trust

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 5:47 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 5:47 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 16:31Luke 16:29

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