John 8:27

They did not understand that He was telling them about the Father.

Study Bible

They did not understand
This phrase highlights the spiritual blindness and lack of comprehension among the listeners of Jesus. The Greek word used here is "οὐκ ἔγνωσαν" (ouk egnōsan), which implies a failure to perceive or recognize. This lack of understanding is not merely intellectual but spiritual, indicating a deeper inability to grasp the divine truths Jesus was revealing. Historically, this reflects the broader theme in the Gospel of John where Jesus' teachings often confound those who are not open to the spiritual insights He offers. It serves as a reminder of the necessity of spiritual discernment and openness to divine revelation.

that He was telling them
The phrase underscores the active communication of Jesus. The Greek verb "ἔλεγεν" (elegen) is in the imperfect tense, suggesting a continuous or repeated action. Jesus persistently communicated His message, emphasizing His role as the divine teacher. This persistence is a testament to His patience and desire for His audience to come to an understanding of His identity and mission. It reflects the historical context of Jesus' ministry, where He often faced misunderstanding and opposition, yet continued to teach with authority and clarity.

about the Father
This phrase is central to the identity and mission of Jesus as presented in the Gospel of John. The Greek term "τὸν πατέρα" (ton patera) refers to God the Father, highlighting the intimate relationship between Jesus and God. Jesus' teachings consistently pointed to the Father, emphasizing His divine origin and the unity between Him and the Father. This reflects the theological cornerstone of the Christian faith: the revelation of God through Jesus Christ. Historically, this was a radical claim that challenged the prevailing religious understanding of God, inviting listeners to a deeper, more personal relationship with the divine. It serves as an invitation for believers to seek a closer connection with God through the teachings and person of Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is speaking to the people and revealing His divine connection to God the Father.

2. The Pharisees
Religious leaders who often challenged Jesus and struggled to understand His teachings.

3. The Father
Referring to God the Father, whom Jesus consistently points to as the source of His authority and message.

4. The Temple
The setting for this discourse, where Jesus often taught and engaged with the Jewish leaders.

5. The Jewish People
The broader audience, including both followers and skeptics, who were present during Jesus' teaching.

Teaching Points

Understanding Spiritual Truths
Spiritual truths require spiritual discernment. Like the Pharisees, we may struggle to understand God's message if we rely solely on human wisdom.

The Importance of Knowing the Father
Jesus' mission was to reveal the Father. Our relationship with God deepens as we seek to understand His nature through Jesus.

The Role of Jesus as Mediator
Jesus is the bridge between humanity and God. Recognizing His role helps us approach God with confidence and clarity.

The Danger of Spiritual Blindness
The Pharisees' inability to understand Jesus serves as a warning against spiritual blindness. We must remain open to God's revelation.

Seeking Revelation through the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit aids in understanding God's word. We should pray for the Spirit's guidance in our study and application of Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' relationship with the Father challenge or affirm your understanding of God?

2. In what ways can we avoid the spiritual blindness exhibited by the Pharisees?

3. How does recognizing Jesus as the mediator between God and humanity impact your prayer life?

4. What steps can you take to ensure you are open to spiritual truths and not relying solely on human wisdom?

5. How can the Holy Spirit assist you in understanding and applying the teachings of Jesus in your daily life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 1:18
This verse highlights that no one has seen God, but Jesus, the Son, has made Him known. It connects to John 8:27 by emphasizing Jesus' role in revealing the Father.

John 14:9-10
Jesus explains to Philip that anyone who has seen Him has seen the Father, reinforcing the unity between Jesus and the Father.

Hebrews 1:1-3
This passage describes Jesus as the exact representation of God's being, further illustrating the connection between Jesus and the Father.

Isaiah 6:9-10
This Old Testament prophecy about people hearing but not understanding is echoed in the Pharisees' inability to grasp Jesus' message.

1 Corinthians 2:14
Paul speaks about the natural man's inability to understand spiritual truths, which relates to the Pharisees' misunderstanding of Jesus' words.