King James Version

What Does John 8:50 Mean?

John 8:50 in the King James Version says “And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth.” — study this verse from John chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth.”

John 8:50 · KJV

Context

48

Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?

49

Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me.

50

And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth.

51

Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.

52

Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And I seek not mine own glory—Jesus disclaims self-seeking motives. "I seek" (ζητῶ/zētō) in the negative (οὐ) indicates Jesus does not pursue, strive for, or desire (ζητέω) His own glory (δόξα/doxa). This stands in stark contrast to the religious leaders who "loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God" (12:43, cf. 5:44). Jesus's consistent testimony is that He seeks the Father's glory alone (7:18, 17:4).

"Glory" (δόξα/doxa) refers to honor, praise, reputation, radiant splendor—the visible manifestation of God's presence and character. Fallen humanity craves glory, seeking honor from others to validate identity and worth. Jesus, being God, possessed intrinsic glory (1:14, 17:5) yet humbled Himself, taking "the form of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). His mission was not self-glorification but revealing the Father's glory through perfect obedience.

There is one that seeketh and judgeth—the Father seeks Jesus's glory and judges (κρίνω/krinō) those who dishonor Him. The present participles ("seeketh," "judgeth") indicate ongoing divine action. While Jesus doesn't pursue self-vindication, the Father vindicates His Son. "Judgeth" (κρίνων/krinōn) refers to the Father's just evaluation—He will exalt Christ and condemn Christ's rejectors.

This anticipates Philippians 2:9-11: "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow." Jesus doesn't need to defend His honor; the Father will establish it eternally.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The cultural context heightens this statement's radicalism. In honor-shame societies, one must defend one's honor and reputation. Public insults (like v.48) demanded public response, often violent. Family honor required vindication, sometimes through blood feuds.

Jesus's refusal to seek His own glory subverted these cultural norms. He modeled the kingdom ethic He preached: "Blessed are the meek" (Matthew 5:5), "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted" (Matthew 23:12). His trust in the Father's vindication enabled Him to endure the cross "for the joy set before him" (Hebrews 12:2).

For first-century Jewish opponents, Jesus's claims seemed arrogant—calling God "my Father" (v.49, 54), claiming preexistence (v.58), accepting worship. Yet here He clarifies: His claims aren't self-promotion but truth revelation. The Father, not Jesus, initiates Jesus's glorification through resurrection, ascension, and cosmic lordship.

Early Christians facing persecution drew comfort from this verse. Though dishonored by the world, God would vindicate them. Though martyred, they trusted divine judgment would right all wrongs (Revelation 6:10).

Reflection Questions

  1. In what subtle ways do we seek our own glory rather than God's in ministry, relationships, or career?
  2. How does Jesus's example of leaving vindication to the Father shape how we respond to criticism or injustice?
  3. What does it mean that God the Father 'seeks' Christ's glory, and how should this affect our worship and service?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἐγὼ1 of 12

“I”

G1473

i, me

δὲ2 of 12

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

οὐ3 of 12

“not”

G3756

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

ζητῶν4 of 12

“one that seeketh”

G2212

to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)

τὴν5 of 12
G3588

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

δόξαν6 of 12

“glory”

G1391

glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

μου·7 of 12

“mine own”

G3450

of me

ἔστιν8 of 12

“there is”

G2076

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

ὁ9 of 12
G3588

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

ζητῶν10 of 12

“one that seeketh”

G2212

to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)

καὶ11 of 12

“and”

G2532

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

κρίνων12 of 12

“judgeth”

G2919

by implication, to try, condemn, punish

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 8:50 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 8:50 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 5:41John 8:54John 7:18John 5:20-23John 12:47-48John 5:45

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