John 7:49

But this crowd that does not know the law, they are under a curse."

Study Bible

But this crowd
The term "crowd" here refers to the common people who were present during Jesus' teachings. In the Greek, the word used is "ὄχλος" (ochlos), which often denotes a large group of people, typically those who are not part of the religious elite. Historically, the Pharisees and religious leaders viewed themselves as superior in knowledge and understanding of the law, often looking down upon the general populace. This phrase sets the stage for the Pharisees' disdainful attitude towards those they considered ignorant.

that does not know the law
The "law" here refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, which were central to Jewish religious life and practice. The Greek word "νόμος" (nomos) is used, indicating the legal and moral code given by God to Moses. The Pharisees prided themselves on their meticulous knowledge and interpretation of the law, and they believed that ignorance of the law was a significant spiritual deficiency. This phrase highlights the Pharisees' belief that the crowd's lack of formal education in the law rendered them spiritually inferior.

is accursed
The term "accursed" comes from the Greek word "ἐπικατάρατος" (epikataratos), which means to be under a curse or condemned. In the Jewish context, being accursed was a serious state, often implying divine disfavor or judgment. The Pharisees' declaration that the crowd is accursed reflects their belief that ignorance of the law equated to being outside of God's favor. This harsh judgment underscores the religious leaders' failure to recognize the heart of God's law, which is love and mercy, and their inability to see the spiritual hunger and potential within the crowd.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharisees
A religious group in Judaism known for strict adherence to the Law of Moses and oral traditions. They often clashed with Jesus over interpretations of the law and spiritual authority.

2. The Crowd
Refers to the general populace attending the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem. The Pharisees viewed them as ignorant of the law and thus spiritually inferior.

3. Feast of Tabernacles
A major Jewish festival held in Jerusalem, commemorating the Israelites' wilderness wanderings and God's provision. It serves as the backdrop for the events in John 7.

4. Jesus
Central figure in the Gospel of John, whose teachings and actions challenge the religious leaders and offer a new understanding of God's law and grace.

5. Nicodemus
A Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin who appears later in John 7, advocating for a fair hearing for Jesus, contrasting with the other Pharisees' attitudes.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Law
The Pharisees' statement reflects a misunderstanding of the law's purpose. The law was meant to guide people to God, not to be a tool for judgment or exclusion.

Spiritual Elitism
The Pharisees' attitude warns against spiritual elitism, where knowledge of scripture becomes a source of pride rather than a means to serve and love others.

True Knowledge of God
True knowledge of God is not merely intellectual but relational, involving a heart transformed by His love and grace.

Judging Others
We must be cautious not to judge others' spiritual standing based on external knowledge or adherence to religious practices.

Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth, helping us understand and apply God's word beyond mere intellectual comprehension.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Pharisees' view of the crowd in John 7:49 reflect their understanding of the law, and what does this reveal about their spiritual condition?

2. In what ways can we guard against spiritual elitism in our own lives and communities?

3. How does the concept of true knowledge of God, as seen in John 7:49, relate to Jesus' teachings in the Gospels?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping us understand and apply God's word, and how can we be more receptive to His guidance?

5. How can we ensure that our knowledge of scripture leads to a deeper relationship with God and love for others, rather than judgment or exclusion?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 15:14
Jesus describes the Pharisees as blind guides, highlighting their spiritual blindness despite their knowledge of the law.

Hosea 4:6
God laments that His people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, paralleling the Pharisees' accusation against the crowd.

Romans 10:2-3
Paul speaks of the Israelites having zeal for God but lacking knowledge, similar to the Pharisees' misunderstanding of the law's purpose.