King James Version

What Does John 9:33 Mean?

John 9:33 in the King James Version says “If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.” — study this verse from John chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.”

John 9:33 · KJV

Context

31

Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.

32

Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind.

33

If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.

34

They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out. cast: or, excommunicated him

35

Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.' The man's logic reaches its climax. The miracle proves divine authorization. Someone who performs unprecedented healing must be 'of God.' The man's conclusion is simple, logical, and inescapable—unless one refuses to accept the evidence.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This is essentially the same argument Nicodemus made (3:2)—no one can do such signs unless God is with Him. The formerly blind man, with no theological training, reaches the correct conclusion that religious scholars resisted.

Reflection Questions

  1. What makes the man's logic about Jesus being 'of God' compelling?
  2. Why can simple people sometimes see what sophisticated people miss?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
εἰ1 of 10
G1487

if, whether, that, etc

μὴ2 of 10
G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

ἦν3 of 10

“were”

G2258

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

οὗτος4 of 10

“this man”

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

παρὰ5 of 10

“of”

G3844

properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj

θεοῦ6 of 10

“God”

G2316

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

οὐκ7 of 10
G3756

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

ἠδύνατο8 of 10

“he could”

G1410

to be able or possible

ποιεῖν9 of 10

“do”

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

οὐδέν10 of 10

“nothing”

G3762

not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing

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 9:33 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 9:33 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 9:16John 3:2Acts 5:38-39

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