King James Version
What Does John 7:51 Mean?
“Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?”
Context
49
But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.
50
Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,) to Jesus: Gr. to him
51
Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?
52
They answered and said unto him, Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.
53
And every man went unto his own house.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(51) **Doth our law judge any man?**—He identifies Himself with them. He, like they, is an expounder of the Law. The force of the question is in the word “Law,” which they had used but the moment before in their scorn for the people who knew not the Law. “Well, this Law, which we do know and understand, doth it judge without open investigation?” Did they in their blind zeal forget such passages as Exodus 23:1; Deuteronomy 1:16-17; Deuteronomy 19:15? They had determined a death, and were seeking to carry their sentence into effect in direct contravention of the Law. This holy people, instructed in the Law—they were the Law-breakers.
**Before it hear him.**—The better reading is, *unless it hear first from him.*
**And know what he doeth**—*i.e.,* know the deed for which he is tried.
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 7:51 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 7:51
Proverbs 18:13
→Deuteronomy 1:17
→Acts 23:3
→Deuteronomy 19:15-19
→Deuteronomy 17:8-11
→Deuteronomy 17:6
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge