John 16:3

They will do these things because they have not known the Father or Me.

Study Bible

They will do these things
This phrase refers to the actions of persecution and hostility that Jesus predicts His followers will face. The Greek word for "do" here is "ποιήσουσιν" (poiēsousin), which implies not just a simple action but a deliberate and purposeful act. Historically, this reflects the early Christian experience of persecution by those who believed they were serving God, such as Saul of Tarsus before his conversion. This phrase serves as a reminder that opposition to the faith is often rooted in a misunderstanding or misapplication of religious zeal.

because
The Greek word "ὅτι" (hoti) is used here, indicating a reason or cause. It connects the actions of persecution directly to the lack of knowledge of God. This causal relationship highlights the importance of understanding and knowing God as a foundation for righteous living. It suggests that ignorance of God leads to misguided actions, even when those actions are intended to be religiously motivated.

they have not known
The verb "known" is translated from the Greek "ἔγνωσαν" (egnōsan), which implies a deep, intimate knowledge rather than mere awareness. This is not just intellectual knowledge but relational understanding. In the biblical context, to "know" God is to have a personal relationship with Him, characterized by love, obedience, and faith. The lack of this knowledge is presented as the root cause of the persecution of Jesus' followers.

the Father
This term refers to God the Father, the first person of the Trinity. In the Jewish context of Jesus' time, God as Father was a familiar concept, yet Jesus' revelation of God as Father was more intimate and personal than traditional Jewish teachings. The failure to recognize God as Father indicates a lack of understanding of His nature and His relationship with humanity, which Jesus came to reveal.

or Me
"Me" refers to Jesus Christ Himself. The Greek "ἐμέ" (eme) emphasizes the personal nature of this knowledge. Jesus is asserting His divine identity and unity with the Father. The failure to know Jesus is equated with the failure to know God, underscoring the Christian belief in the divinity of Christ. This phrase challenges the listener to recognize Jesus not just as a historical figure or prophet but as the Son of God, integral to understanding the Father.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, Jesus is preparing His disciples for the challenges they will face after His departure. He emphasizes the importance of knowing Him and the Father.

2. The Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' teaching. They are being prepared for the persecution and misunderstanding they will encounter from those who do not know God.

3. The Father
Refers to God the Father, whom Jesus is intimately connected with. Knowing the Father is equated with knowing Jesus.

4. The World
Represents those who are opposed to Jesus and His teachings, often acting out of ignorance of God.

5. Persecution
The event or series of events that Jesus is warning His disciples about, which will come from those who do not know God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Knowing God
Knowing God and Jesus is foundational to the Christian faith. It is not merely intellectual knowledge but a relational understanding that transforms lives.

Ignorance Leads to Misunderstanding
Many persecute or oppose Christianity because they do not truly know God. This should encourage believers to respond with grace and truth.

Preparation for Persecution
Jesus prepares His followers for the reality of persecution. Christians today should be ready to face opposition with faith and perseverance.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit helps believers to know God more deeply and to stand firm in the face of challenges.

Living as Witnesses
Believers are called to live in a way that reflects their knowledge of God, serving as witnesses to those who do not yet know Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does knowing God and Jesus personally change the way we respond to persecution or misunderstanding from others?

2. In what ways can we deepen our relationship with God to ensure we truly know Him, as opposed to just knowing about Him?

3. How can we, as Christians, effectively witness to those who do not know God, especially when faced with opposition?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced misunderstanding or opposition because of your faith. How did your knowledge of God help you in that situation?

5. How can the church support believers in growing their knowledge of God and preparing them for potential persecution?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 15:21
This verse highlights that persecution comes because the persecutors do not know the One who sent Jesus, reinforcing the theme of ignorance of God.

1 John 3:1
This passage speaks about the world not knowing believers because it did not know God, echoing the theme of ignorance leading to misunderstanding and persecution.

Acts 9:4-5
Saul's persecution of Christians before his conversion is an example of acting out of ignorance of Jesus and the Father.