John 8:55

You do not know Him, but I know Him. If I said I did not know Him, I would be a liar like you. But I do know Him, and I keep His word.

Study Bible

You do not know Him
This phrase is a direct address to the Jewish leaders who prided themselves on their knowledge of God through the Law and the Prophets. The Greek word for "know" here is "ginōskō," which implies an intimate, experiential knowledge rather than mere intellectual assent. Jesus is highlighting the spiritual blindness of the religious leaders, who, despite their extensive study of the Scriptures, failed to recognize God in the person of Jesus Christ. This serves as a reminder that true knowledge of God transcends academic study and is rooted in a personal relationship with Him.

but I know Him
In contrast to the religious leaders, Jesus claims an intimate and perfect knowledge of God. The Greek word "oida" is used here, which often denotes a fullness of knowledge. Jesus' statement underscores His unique relationship with the Father, affirming His divine nature and authority. This declaration is foundational to Christian belief, emphasizing that Jesus is not merely a prophet or teacher but the incarnate Son of God who fully reveals the Father.

If I said I did not
Here, Jesus presents a hypothetical scenario to emphasize the truthfulness of His claim. The conditional "if" introduces a situation contrary to fact, underscoring the impossibility of Jesus denying His knowledge of the Father. This highlights the integrity and consistency of Jesus' character, as He cannot and will not speak falsely about His divine identity and mission.

I would be a liar like you
Jesus uses strong language to confront the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. The term "liar" is a direct accusation, pointing to their false claims of knowing God while rejecting His Son. This phrase serves as a warning against the dangers of self-deception and the importance of aligning one's life with the truth of God's revelation in Christ. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of truth versus falsehood, a recurring motif in John's Gospel.

But I do know Him
Reiterating His earlier statement, Jesus affirms His intimate knowledge of the Father. The repetition emphasizes the certainty and authority of His claim. This knowledge is not abstract or theoretical but is demonstrated through His life and works. For believers, this serves as an assurance that in Christ, we have the fullest revelation of God, and through Him, we can also come to know the Father.

and I keep His word
The phrase "keep His word" signifies obedience and faithfulness to God's commands. The Greek word "tēreō" implies careful observance and guarding of God's word. Jesus models perfect obedience to the Father, fulfilling His will in every aspect of His life and ministry. This sets a standard for believers, calling us to not only hear God's word but to live it out in our daily lives. It also highlights the unity between knowing God and obeying Him, as true knowledge of God naturally leads to a life of obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, asserting His intimate knowledge of God the Father.

2. The Pharisees
Religious leaders of the time, often in opposition to Jesus, questioning His authority and knowledge of God.

3. God the Father
Referred to by Jesus as the one whom He knows intimately and whose word He keeps.

4. Jerusalem
The setting of this discourse, a city central to Jewish religious life and the location of many of Jesus' teachings.

5. The Feast of Tabernacles
The broader context of John 8, during which Jesus was teaching in the temple courts.

Teaching Points

Intimate Knowledge of God
Jesus claims a unique and intimate knowledge of God, which is foundational to His authority and teaching. As believers, we are called to seek a deeper relationship with God through prayer, study, and obedience.

Truthfulness and Integrity
Jesus contrasts His truthfulness with the Pharisees' lack of it. Christians are encouraged to live with integrity, speaking truthfully and aligning their lives with God's word.

Obedience to God's Word
Jesus emphasizes the importance of keeping God's word. Believers should prioritize obedience to Scripture as a demonstration of their love and knowledge of God.

Confronting Religious Hypocrisy
Jesus challenges the Pharisees' superficial understanding of God. Christians should be wary of religious hypocrisy and strive for genuine faith and practice.

The Role of Jesus as Mediator
Jesus' unique relationship with the Father positions Him as the mediator between God and humanity. Believers should rely on Jesus for access to the Father and understanding of His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' claim of knowing the Father challenge the religious leaders of His time, and what does this teach us about the nature of true spiritual authority?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a deeper knowledge of God in our daily lives, following Jesus' example?

3. How does keeping God's word serve as evidence of our relationship with Him, and what practical steps can we take to ensure we are living in obedience?

4. What are some modern examples of religious hypocrisy, and how can we guard against falling into similar patterns in our own faith journey?

5. How does understanding Jesus as our mediator influence our approach to prayer and our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 1:18
This verse emphasizes that no one has seen God except the Son, who has made Him known, reinforcing Jesus' unique knowledge of the Father.

1 John 2:4
This passage discusses the importance of keeping God's word as evidence of knowing Him, echoing Jesus' statement about keeping the Father's word.

John 14:7-9
Jesus explains to His disciples that knowing Him is equivalent to knowing the Father, further illustrating His divine relationship and authority.

Philippians 2:6-8
Highlights Jesus' humility and obedience, which aligns with His claim of keeping the Father's word.