John 8:25

"Who are You?" they asked. "Just what I have been telling you from the beginning," Jesus replied.

Study Bible

Who are You?
This question posed by the Pharisees reflects a recurring theme in the Gospel of John: the identity of Jesus. The Greek phrase "Σὺ τίς εἶ;" (Su tis ei?) indicates a direct challenge to Jesus' authority and identity. Historically, the Jewish leaders were expecting a Messiah who would fit their preconceived notions of a political liberator. This question is not just about curiosity but a deeper skepticism and resistance to Jesus' claims. In the broader scriptural context, this question echoes the human struggle to understand the divine nature of Christ, a theme that resonates throughout the New Testament.

they asked
The act of asking here is significant. The Greek verb "ἔλεγον" (elegon) is in the imperfect tense, suggesting a repeated or ongoing action. This implies that the Pharisees were persistently questioning Jesus, indicative of their continual doubt and opposition. This persistent questioning can be seen as a metaphor for humanity's ongoing quest for truth and understanding of the divine. It also highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, a tension that ultimately leads to the crucifixion.

Just what I have been telling you
Jesus' response is both profound and straightforward. The phrase "Τὴν ἀρχὴν ὅ τι καὶ λαλῶ ὑμῖν" (Tēn archēn ho ti kai lalō hymin) can be translated as "from the beginning what I am also saying to you." The word "ἀρχή" (archē) means "beginning" or "origin," suggesting that Jesus' identity and mission have been consistent from the start. This consistency is a testament to His divine nature and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Jesus is emphasizing that His message has not changed, reinforcing His role as the eternal Word (Logos) as introduced in John 1:1.

from the beginning
The phrase "from the beginning" is crucial in understanding Jesus' divine pre-existence and His unchanging nature. In the context of John's Gospel, this points back to the prologue (John 1:1), where Jesus is described as the Word who was with God in the beginning. This assertion of pre-existence is a cornerstone of Christian theology, affirming that Jesus is not merely a historical figure but the eternal Son of God. It also serves as a reminder of the continuity of God's plan for salvation, which has been unfolding since the creation of the world.

Jesus replied
The act of replying here is significant. The Greek verb "εἶπεν" (eipen) is in the aorist tense, indicating a definitive and authoritative response. Jesus' reply is not just a defense of His identity but an invitation to the Pharisees—and to all readers of the Gospel—to recognize and accept Him as the Messiah. This moment is a pivotal point in the narrative, where Jesus reaffirms His divine mission and challenges His listeners to move beyond skepticism to faith. In the broader scriptural context, Jesus' replies often serve as revelations of His divine wisdom and authority, inviting believers to deeper understanding and commitment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the Gospel of John, the Son of God, who is revealing His identity and mission to the people.

2. The Pharisees
Jewish religious leaders who often questioned and challenged Jesus, seeking to understand or discredit His claims.

3. Jerusalem
The setting of this discourse, a significant city in Jewish religious life and the location of the Temple.

4. The Temple
The place where Jesus often taught, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

5. The Crowd
The general audience, including both followers and skeptics, listening to Jesus' teachings.

Teaching Points

Consistency of Christ's Message
Jesus' response emphasizes the consistency and reliability of His message. He has been revealing His identity and mission from the beginning, and His message remains unchanged.

Understanding Jesus' Identity
The question "Who are You?" reflects a fundamental inquiry into Jesus' identity. Believers are encouraged to seek a deeper understanding of who Jesus is through Scripture and personal relationship.

The Importance of Faith
The Pharisees' questioning highlights the struggle between doubt and faith. Believers are called to trust in Jesus' words and His revealed identity.

The Role of Scripture in Knowing Christ
Jesus' teachings are rooted in Scripture. Studying the Bible is essential for understanding His identity and mission.

Responding to Skepticism
Jesus' calm and consistent response to skepticism serves as a model for believers when facing questions or doubts about their faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' response to the Pharisees in John 8:25 reflect His divine nature and consistency?

2. In what ways does the Gospel of John as a whole help us understand the identity of Jesus?

3. How can we apply Jesus' example of responding to skepticism in our own lives when faced with questions about our faith?

4. What role does Scripture play in deepening our understanding of who Jesus is, and how can we incorporate this into our daily lives?

5. How do the connections between John 8:25 and other Scriptures, such as Exodus 3:14 and Hebrews 13:8, enhance our understanding of Jesus' identity and mission?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 1:1-14
This passage introduces Jesus as the Word, emphasizing His divine nature and pre-existence, which aligns with His claim of being consistent from the beginning.

Exodus 3:14
God's self-identification as "I AM" to Moses, which parallels Jesus' declarations of His divine identity throughout the Gospel of John.

Hebrews 13:8
This verse speaks of Jesus Christ being the same yesterday, today, and forever, reinforcing His unchanging nature.

John 14:6
Jesus' declaration as the way, the truth, and the life, further clarifying His identity and mission.

Isaiah 9:6
Prophecy about the coming Messiah, highlighting titles that reflect Jesus' divine nature and eternal existence.