King James Version

What Does John 6:36 Mean?

John 6:36 in the King James Version says “But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not. — study this verse from John chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not.

John 6:36 · KJV


Context

34

Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.

35

And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

36

But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not.

37

All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

38

For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus' statement 'ye also have seen me, and believe not' diagnoses the problem—sight without faith. They witnessed miracles, heard teaching, yet didn't truly believe. This proves that evidence alone doesn't produce saving faith; the Spirit must work internally. External witness, however compelling, requires internal transformation to produce genuine conversion.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Despite proximity to Jesus, miracles, and teaching, many who saw Him directly didn't believe (John 12:37). This sobering reality shows that physical presence with Christ doesn't guarantee faith—spiritual regeneration is required.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why can people witness miracles and hear truth yet still not believe?
  2. What does this teach about the necessity of the Spirit's work in producing genuine faith?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
ἀλλ'1 of 10

But

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

εἶπον2 of 10

I said

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

ὑμῖν3 of 10

unto you

G5213

to (with or by) you

ὅτι4 of 10

That

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

καὶ5 of 10

also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἑωράκατέ6 of 10

have seen

G3708

by extension, to attend to; by hebraism, to experience; passively, to appear

με7 of 10

me

G3165

me

καὶ8 of 10

also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οὐ9 of 10

not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

πιστεύετε10 of 10

believe

G4100

to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch


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 6:36 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 6:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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