John 1

Parallel Chapters and Verses, Greek and Hebrew Lexicon, Commentaries, Strong's Bible Dictionary, Concordances and Cross References for John 1 John: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 John 1:1 New American Standard Bible: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. God's Word Translation: In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. King James Version: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Bible in Basic English: From the first he was the Word, and the Word was in relation with God and was God. Weymouth New Testament: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. World English Bible: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Alphabetical: and beginning God In the was with Word GSB: 1:1 In {1} the {a} beginning {b} was {c} the Word, and the Word was {d} with God, and the {e} Word was God. (1) The Son of God is of one and the selfsame eternity or everlastingness, and of one and the selfsame essence or nature with the Father. (a) From the beginning, as the evangelist says in 1Jo 1:1; it is as though he said that the Word did not begin to have his being when God began to make all that was made: for the Word was even then when all things that were made began to be made, and therefore he was before the beginning of all things. (b) Had his being. (c) This word the points out to us a peculiar and choice thing above all others, and puts a difference between this Word, which is the Son of God, and the laws of God, which are also called the word of God. (d) This word with points out that there is a distinction of persons here. (e) This word Word is the first in order in the sentence, and is the subject of the sentence, and this word God is the latter in order, and is the predicate of the sentence. PNT: 1:1-3 The Beginning of Christ's Ministry SUMMARY OF JOHN 1: The Word Made Flesh. The Witness of John. John's Disciples Pointed to Christ. The Lord Calls His First Disciples. An Israelite Indeed. In the beginning was the Word, etc. The first fourteen verses are introductory. In order to set at rest all controversy the Divine nature of Jesus, John glances, in the first three verses, back to the beginning, recorded in Genesis, and affirms: (1) That he who was afterwards manifest as the Christ existed before creation began; (2) that he was present with God; (3) that he was divine; (4) that he was the Word; (5) that by or through him were all things made that were made (Joh 1:3). The first chapter of Genesis helps us to understand its meaning. God said, Let there be light (Ge 1:3), Let there be a firmament (Ge 1:6), Let the earth bring forth (Ge 1:11), etc. and it was done. God exhibits his creative power through the Word, and manifests his will through the Word. There are mysteries belonging to the divine nature and to the relation between the Son and the Father that we have to wait for eternity to solve. They are too deep for human solution, but this is clear: that God creates and speaks to man through the Word. As we clothe our thoughts in words, so God reveals his will by the Word, and when the Word is clothed in flesh, as the Teacher of men, we recognize it as Jesus Christ. WES: 1:1 In the beginning - (Referring to Gen 1:1, and Prov 8:23.) When all things began to be made by the Word: in the beginning of heaven and earth, and this whole frame of created beings, the Word existed, without any beginning. He was when all things began to be, whatsoever had a beginning. The Word - So termed Psa 33:6, and frequently by the seventy, and in the Chaldee paraphrase. So that St. John did not borrow this expression from Philo, or any heathen writer. He was not yet named Jesus, or Christ. He is the Word whom the Father begat or spoke from eternity; by whom the Father speaking, maketh all things; who speaketh the Father to us. We have, in John 1:18, both a real description of the Word, and the reason why he is so called. He is the only begotten Son of the Father, who is in the bosom of the Father, and hath declared him. And the Word was with God - Therefore distinct from God the Father. The word rendered with, denotes a perpetual tendency as it were of the Son to the Father, in unity of essence. He was with God alone; because nothing beside God had then any being. And the Word was God - Supreme, eternal, independent. There was no creature, in respect of which he could be styled God in a relative sense. Therefore he is styled so in the absolute sense. The Godhead of the Messiah being clearly revealed in the Old Testament, (Jer 23:7; Hos 1:6; Psa 23:1,) the other evangelists aim at this, to prove that Jesus, a true man, was the Messiah. But when, at length, some from hence began to doubt of his Godhead, then St. John expressly asserted it, and wrote in this book as it were a supplement to the Gospels, as in the Revelation to the prophets. MHC: 1:1-5 The plainest reason why the Son of God is called the Word, seems to be, that as our words explain our minds to others, so was the Son of God sent in order to reveal his Father's mind to the world. What the evangelist says of Christ proves that he is God. He asserts, His existence in the beginning; His coexistence with the Father. The Word was with God. All things were made by him, and not as an instrument. Without him was not any thing made that was made, from the highest angel to the meanest worm. This shows how well qualified he was for the work of our redemption and salvation. The light of reason, as well as the life of sense, is derived from him, and depends upon him. This eternal Word, this true Light shines, but the darkness comprehends it not. Let us pray without ceasing, that our eyes may be opened to behold this Light, that we may walk in it; and thus be made wise unto salvation, by faith in Jesus Christ. John 1:2 New American Standard Bible: He was in the beginning with God. God's Word Translation: He was already with God in the beginning. King James Version: The same was in the beginning with God. Bible in Basic English: This Word was from the first in relation with God. Weymouth New Testament: He was in the beginning with God. World English Bible: The same was in the beginning with God. Alphabetical: beginning God He in the was with PNT: 1:1-3 The Beginning of Christ's Ministry SUMMARY OF JOHN 1: The Word Made Flesh. The Witness of John. John's Disciples Pointed to Christ. The Lord Calls His First Disciples. An Israelite Indeed. In the beginning was the Word, etc. The first fourteen verses are introductory. In order to set at rest all controversy the Divine nature of Jesus, John glances, in the first three verses, back to the beginning, recorded in Genesis, and affirms: (1) That he who was afterwards manifest as the Christ existed before creation began; (2) that he was present with God; (3) that he was divine; (4) that he was the Word; (5) that by or through him were all things made that were made (Joh 1:3). The first chapter of Genesis helps us to understand its meaning. God said, Let there be light (Ge 1:3), Let there be a firmament (Ge 1:6), Let the earth bring forth (Ge 1:11), etc. and it was done. God exhibits his creative power through the Word, and manifests his will through the Word. There are mysteries belonging to the divine nature and to the relation between the Son and the Father that we have to wait for eternity to solve. They are too deep for human solution, but this is clear: that God creates and speaks to man through the Word. As we clothe our thoughts in words, so God reveals his will by the Word, and when the Word is clothed in flesh, as the Teacher of men, we recognize it as Jesus Christ. WES: 1:2 The same was in the beginning with God - This verse repeats and contracts into one the three points mentioned before. As if he had said, This Word, who was God, was in the beginning, and was with God. MHC: John 1:3 New American Standard Bible: All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. God's Word Translation: Everything came into existence through him. Not one thing that exists was made without him. King James Version: All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. Bible in Basic English: All things came into existence through him, and without him nothing was. Weymouth New Testament: All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing that exists came into being. World English Bible: All things were made through him. Without him was not anything made that has been made. Alphabetical: all and apart been being came come from has him into made nothing that things Through was were without GSB: 1:3 {2} All {f} things were made by him; and {g} without him {h} was not any thing made that was made. (2) The Son of God declares that his everlasting Godhead is the same as the Father's, both by the creating of all things, and also by preserving them, and especially by the excellent gifts of reason and understanding with which he has beautified man above all other creatures. (f) Paul expounds on this in Col 1:15-16. (g) That is, as the Father did work, so did the Son work with him: for the Son was a fellow worker with him. (h) Of all those things which were made, nothing was made without him. PNT: 1:1-3 The Beginning of Christ's Ministry SUMMARY OF JOHN 1: The Word Made Flesh. The Witness of John. John's Disciples Pointed to Christ. The Lord Calls His First Disciples. An Israelite Indeed. In the beginning was the Word, etc. The first fourteen verses are introductory. In order to set at rest all controversy the Divine nature of Jesus, John glances, in the first three verses, back to the beginning, recorded in Genesis, and affirms: (1) That he who was afterwards manifest as the Christ existed before creation began; (2) that he was present with God; (3) that he was divine; (4) that he was the Word; (5) that by or through him were all things made that were made (Joh 1:3). The first chapter of Genesis helps us to understand its meaning. God said, Let there be light (Ge 1:3), Let there be a firmament (Ge 1:6), Let the earth bring forth (Ge 1:11), etc. and it was done. God exhibits his creative power through the Word, and manifests his will through the Word. There are mysteries belonging to the divine nature and to the relation between the Son and the Father that we have to wait for eternity to solve. They are too deep for human solution, but this is clear: that God creates and speaks to man through the Word. As we clothe our thoughts in words, so God reveals his will by the Word, and when the Word is clothed in flesh, as the Teacher of men, we recognize it as Jesus Christ. WES: 1:3 All things beside God were made, and all things which were made, were made by the Word. In Joh 1:1,2 is described the state of things before the creation: Joh 1:3, In the creation: Joh 1:4, In the time of man's innocency: Joh 1:5, In the time of man's corruption. MHC: John 1:4 New American Standard Bible: In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. God's Word Translation: He was the source of life, and that life was the light for humanity. King James Version: In him was life; and the life was the light of men. Bible in Basic English: What came into existence in him was life, and the life was the light of men. Weymouth New Testament: In Him was Life, and that Life was the Light of men. World English Bible: In him was life, and the life was the light of men. Alphabetical: and him In life light men of that the was GSB: 1:4 {i} In him {k} was life; and the life was {l} the light of men. (i) That is, by him: and this is spoken after the manner of the Hebrews, meaning by this that by his force and working power all life comes to the world. (k) That is, even at that time when all things were made by him, for otherwise he would have said, Life in him, and not life was. (l) That force of reason and understanding which is kindled in our minds to acknowledge him, the author of so great a benefit. PNT: 1:4 In him was life. He had life in himself, and hence is a fountain from whence life flows to man. Death could not hold him, because in him is life, and he became the Resurrection and the Life (Joh 11:25) for us. The life was the light of men. The life that Christ bestows enlightens men. He is the Light of the World (Joh 8:12 9:5). His light chases away the darkness of the earth, though, when John wrote, the darkness did not receive it. Men, in darkness, had eyes and saw not. All history demonstrates that Christ is the Light of the World; every redeemed soul recognizes the fact. WES: 1:4 In him was life - He was the foundation of life to every living thing, as well as of being to all that is. And the life was the light of men - He who is essential life, and the giver of life to all that liveth, was also the light of men; the fountain of wisdom, holiness, and happiness, to man in his original state. MHC: John 1:5 New American Standard Bible: The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. God's Word Translation: The light shines in the dark, and the dark has never extinguished it. King James Version: And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. Bible in Basic English: And the light goes on shining in the dark; it is not overcome by the dark. Weymouth New Testament: The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overpowered it. World English Bible: The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness hasn't overcome it. Alphabetical: and but comprehend darkness did has in it light not shines The understood GSB: 1:5 {3} And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness {m} comprehended it not. (3) The light of men is turned into darkness, but yet there is enough clearness so that they are without excuse. (m) They could not perceive nor reach it to receive any light from it, no, they did not so much as acknowledge him. WES: 1:5 And the light shineth in darkness - Shines even on fallen man; but the darkness - Dark, sinful man, perceiveth it not. MHC: John 1:6 New American Standard Bible: There came a man sent from God, whose name was John. God's Word Translation: God sent a man named John to be his messenger. King James Version: There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. Bible in Basic English: There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. Weymouth New Testament: There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. World English Bible: There came a man, sent from God, whose name was John. Alphabetical: a came from God his John man name sent There was who whose GSB: 1:6 {4} There was a man sent from God, whose name [was] John. (4) There is another more full manifestation of the Son of God, by the consideration of which men are in good time stirred up, even to John's voice, who is as it were the herald of Christ. PNT: 1:6 There was a man sent from God. The writer now speaks of a witness to the Light, John, a man sent from God (Joh 1:7,8). He was called to his work from his mother's womb (Lu 1:13-17). WES: 1:6 There was a man - The evangelist now proceeds to him who testified of the light, which he had spoken of in the five preceding verse s. MHC: 1:6-14 John the Baptist came to bear witness concerning Jesus. Nothing more fully shows the darkness of men's minds, than that when the Light had appeared, there needed a witness to call attention to it. Christ was the true Light; that great Light which deserves to be called so. By his Spirit and grace he enlightens all that are enlightened to salvation; and those that are not enlightened by him, perish in darkness. Christ was in the world when he took our nature upon him, and dwelt among us. The Son of the Highest was here in this lower world. He was in the world, but not of it. He came to save a lost world, because it was a world of his own making. Yet the world knew him not. When he comes as a Judge, the world shall know him. Many say that they are Christ's own, yet do not receive him, because they will not part with their sins, nor have him to reign over them. All the children of God are born again. This new birth is through the word of God as the means, 1Pe 1:23, and by the Spirit of God as the Author. By his Divine presence Christ always was in the world. But now that the fulness of time was come, he was, after another manner, God manifested in the flesh. But observe the beams of his Divine glory, which darted through this veil of flesh. Men discover their weaknesses to those most familiar with them, but it was not so with Christ; those most intimate with him saw most of his glory. Although he was in the form of a servant, as to outward circumstances, yet, in respect of graces, his form was like the Son of God His Divine glory appeared in the holiness of his doctrine, and in his miracles. He was full of grace, fully acceptable to his Father, therefore qualified to plead for us; and full of truth, fully aware of the things he was to reveal. John 1:7 New American Standard Bible: He came as a witness, to testify about the Light, so that all might believe through him. God's Word Translation: John came to declare the truth about the light so that everyone would become believers through his message. King James Version: The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. Bible in Basic English: He came for witness, to give witness about the light, so that all men might have faith through him. Weymouth New Testament: He came as a witness, in order that he might give testimony concerning the Light--so that all might believe through him. World English Bible: The same came as a witness, that he might testify about the light, that all might believe through him. Alphabetical: a about all as believe came concerning He him light men might so testify that the through to witness GSB: 1:7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all [men] {n} through him might believe. (n) Through John. PNT: 1:7 The same came for a witness, to bear testimony of the Light. John came, not so much as a reformer, as a witness. His work, as declared by Malachi, was to be a messenger to go before the Lord (Mal 3:1). In all his preaching he testified of Christ. He pointed his own disciples to Jesus. WES: 1:7 The same came for (that is, in order to give) a testimony - The evangelist, with the most strong and tender affection, interweaves his own testimony with that of John, by noble digressions, wherein he explains the office of the Baptist; partly premises and partly subjoins a farther explication to his short sentences. What St. Matthew, Mark, and Luke term the Gospel, in respect of the promise going before, St. John usually terms the testimony, intimating the certain knowledge of the relator; to testify of the light - Of Christ. MHC: John 1:8 New American Standard Bible: He was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light. God's Word Translation: John was not the light, but he came to declare the truth about the light. King James Version: He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. Bible in Basic English: He himself was not the light: he was sent to give witness about the light. Weymouth New Testament: He was not the Light, but he existed that he might give testimony concerning the Light. World English Bible: He was not the light, but was sent that he might testify about the light. Alphabetical: a about as but came He himself light not only testify the to was witness GSB: 1:8 He was not {o} that Light, but [was sent] to bear witness of that Light. (o) That light which we spoke of, that is, Christ, who alone can enlighten our darkness. PNT: 1:8 He was not that Light, but [was sent] to bear testimony. An early heretical sect held that John the Baptist was the Messiah. The apostle is explicit, in order to correct this error. MHC: John 1:9 New American Standard Bible: There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. God's Word Translation: The real light, which shines on everyone, was coming into the world. King James Version: That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. Bible in Basic English: The true light, which gives light to every man, was then coming into the world. Weymouth New Testament: The true Light was that which illumines every man by its coming into the world. World English Bible: The true light that enlightens everyone was coming into the world. Alphabetical: TRUE enlightens every gives into light man that The There to was which world GSB: 1:9 {5} [That] was {p} the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. (5) When the Son of God saw that men did not acknowledge him by his works, although they were endued with understanding (which he had given to all of them), he exhibited himself unto his people to be seen by them with their physical eyes: yet not even then did they acknowledge him or receive him. (p) Who alone and properly deserves to be called the light, for he shines by his own accord and borrows light from no one. PNT: 1:9 [That] was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. The Revised Version reads, There was the true light, [even the light] which lighteth every man, coming into the world. Grammatically, both in the Greek and the English, coming may belong to the light, or every man. We believe that it should agree with light. That was the true or real Light who, when he comes into the world, enlightens every man. Jesus says, I am come a light into the world (Joh 12:46). WES: 1:9 Who lighteth every man - By what is vulgarly termed natural conscience, pointing out at least the general lines of good and evil. And this light, if man did not hinder, would shine more and more to the perfect day. MHC: John 1:10 New American Standard Bible: He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. God's Word Translation: He was in the world, and the world came into existence through him. Yet, the world didn't recognize him. King James Version: He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. Bible in Basic English: He was in the world, the world which came into being through him, but the world had no knowledge of him. Weymouth New Testament: He was in the world, and the world came into existence through Him, and the world did not recognize Him. World English Bible: He was in the world, and the world was made through him, and the world didn't recognize him. Alphabetical: and did He him in know made not recognize the though through was world GSB: 1:10 {q} He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. (q) The person of the Word was made manifest even at that time when the world was made. PNT: 1:10 He was in the world, etc. This verse declares: (1) That he was in the world, (2) the world was made by him, (3) it did not recognize him. The world is humanity in general, which knew him not. WES: 1:10 He was in the world - Even from the creation. MHC: John 1:11 New American Standard Bible: He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. God's Word Translation: He went to his own people, and his own people didn't accept him. King James Version: He came unto his own, and his own received him not. Bible in Basic English: He came to the things which were his and his people did not take him to their hearts. Weymouth New Testament: He came to the things that were His own, and His own people gave Him no welcome. World English Bible: He came to his own, and those who were his own didn't receive him. Alphabetical: and but came did He him his not own receive that those to was were which who GSB: 1:11 He came {r} unto his own, and his own received him not. (r) The Word showed himself again when he came in the flesh. PNT: 1:11 He came unto his own, etc. This verse states (1) that he came, personally, to his own. He took upon himself a fleshly form and came to the race to which he was united by fleshly ties; (2) his own received him not. His own is the Jewish nation, who received him not. WES: 1:11 He came - In the fulness of time, to his own - Country, city, temple: And his own - People, received him not. MHC: John 1:12 New American Standard Bible: But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, God's Word Translation: However, he gave the right to become God's children to everyone who believed in him. King James Version: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Bible in Basic English: To all those who did so take him, however, he gave the right of becoming children of God--that is, to those who had faith in his name: Weymouth New Testament: But all who have received Him, to them--that is, to those who trust in His name--He has given the privilege of becoming children of God; World English Bible: But as many as received him, to them he gave the right to become God's children, to those who believe in his name: Alphabetical: all as become believe believed But children even gave God he him his in many name of received right the them those to who Yet GSB: 1:12 {6} But as many as received him, to them gave he {s} power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name: (6) The Son being shut out by the majority of his people, and acknowledged but by a few, regenerates those few by his own strength and power, and receives them into that honour which is common to all the children of God, that is, to be the sons of God. (s) He condescended to give them this power to take them to be his children. PNT: 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God. The Revised Version reads, children of God, which is better. While the nation rejected him, some received him. To such as receive him in every age he gives power to become the children of God. The manner in which he is received is given: [Even] to them that believe on his name. It is not declared that they are made children by believing, but to the believer he gives the power to 'become' a child. When one believes in Christ, his faith becomes a power to lead him to yield himself to God and to receive the Word into his heart. WES: 1:12 But as many as received him - Jews or Gentiles; that believe on his name - That is, on him. The moment they believe, they are sons; and because they are sons, God sendeth forth the Spirit of his Son into their hearts, crying, Abba, Father. MHC: John 1:13 New American Standard Bible: who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. God's Word Translation: These people didn't become God's children in a physical way-from a human impulse or from a husband's desire to have a child. They were born from God. King James Version: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Bible in Basic English: Whose birth was from God and not from blood, or from an impulse of the flesh and man's desire. Weymouth New Testament: who were begotten as such not by human descent, nor through an impulse of their own nature, nor through the will of a human father, but from God. World English Bible: who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Alphabetical: a blood born but children decision descent flesh God human husband's man natural nor not of or the were who will GSB: 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the {t} will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (t) Of that shameful and corrupt nature of man, which is throughout the scriptures described as an enemy of the spirit. PNT: 1:13 Who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh. The Jews prided themselves on being Abraham's children, and trusted in their blood for salvation. To be a son of God is not a fleshly birth at all, but the spirit of the subject is born of God. The Savior explains the birth more particularly, in Joh 3:1-8. WES: 1:13 Who were born - Who became the sons of God, not of blood - Not by descent from Abraham, nor by the will of the flesh - By natural generation, nor by the will of man - Adopting them, but of God - By his Spirit. MHC: John 1:14 New American Standard Bible: And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. God's Word Translation: The Word became human and lived among us. We saw his glory. It was the glory that the Father shares with his only Son, a glory full of kindness and truth. King James Version: And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. Bible in Basic English: And so the Word became flesh and took a place among us for a time; and we saw his glory--such glory as is given to an only son by his father--saw it to be true and full of grace. Weymouth New Testament: And the Word came in the flesh, and lived for a time in our midst, so that we saw His glory--the glory as of the Father's only Son, sent from His presence. He was full of grace and truth. World English Bible: The Word became flesh, and lived among us. We saw his glory, such glory as of the one and only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth. Alphabetical: among and as became begotten came dwelling dwelt Father flesh from full glory grace have his made of One Only saw seen The truth us We who Word GSB: 1:14 {7} And the Word was made {u} flesh, and {x} dwelt among us, (and we beheld his {y} glory, the glory {z} as of the only begotten of the Father,) {a} full of grace and truth. (7) That Son who is God from everlasting took upon himself man's nature, so that one and the selfsame might be both God and man, who manifestly appeared to many witnesses that saw him, amongst whom he was conversant and unto whom by sure and undoubted arguments he showed both of his natures. (u) That is, man: so that, by the figure of speech synecdoche, the part is taken for the whole: for he took upon himself our entire nature, that is to say, a true body, and a true soul. (x) For a time, and when that was ended, he went up into heaven: for the word which he uses is used with reference to tents: and yet nonetheless he is always present with us, though not in flesh, but by the power of his spirit. (y) The glory which he speaks of here is that manifestation of Christ's majesty, which was as it were openly placed before our eyes when the Son of God appeared in the flesh. (z) This word as does not indicate here a likeness, but rather the truth of the matter, for his meaning is this, that we saw such a glory which suited and was proper for the true and only begotten Son of God, who is Lord and King over all the world. (a) He was not only a partaker of grace and truth, but was full of the very substance of grace and truth. PNT: 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us. The Word assumed a human form and became incarnate as the child of Mary. We beheld his glory. His Divine glory. See Lu 9:32 Joh 2:11. WES: 1:14 Flesh sometimes signifies corrupt nature; sometimes the body; sometimes, as here, the whole man. We beheld his glory - We his apostles, particularly Peter, James, and John, Luke 9:32. Grace and truth - We are all by nature liars and children of wrath, to whom both grace and truth are unknown. But we are made partakers of them, when we are accepted through the Beloved. The whole verse might be paraphrased thus: And in order to raise us to this dignity and happiness, the eternal Word, by a most amazing condescension, was made flesh, united himself to our miserable nature, with all its innocent infirmities. And he did not make us a transient visit, but tabernacled among us on earth, displaying his glory in a more eminent manner, than even of old in the tabernacle of Moses. And we who are now recording these things beheld his glory with so strict an attention, that we can testify, it was in every respect such a glory as became the only begotten of the Father. For it shone forth not only in his transfiguration, and in his continual miracles, but in all his tempers, ministrations, and conduct through the whole series of his life. In all he appeared full of grace and truth: he was himself most benevolent and upright; made those ample discoveries of pardon to sinners, which the Mosaic dispensation could not do: and really exhibited the most substantial blessings, whereas that was but a shadow of good things to come. MHC: John 1:15 New American Standard Bible: John testified about Him and cried out, saying, "This was He of whom I said, 'He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.'" God's Word Translation: (John declared the truth about him when he said loudly, "This is the person about whom I said, 'The one who comes after me was before me because he existed before I did.' ") King James Version: John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. Bible in Basic English: John gave witness about him, crying, This is he of whom I said, He who is coming after me is put over me because he was in existence before me. Weymouth New Testament: John gave testimony concerning Him and cried aloud, saying, "This is He of whom I said, 'He who is coming after me has been put before me,' for He was before me." World English Bible: John testified about him. He cried out, saying, "This was he of whom I said,'He who comes after me has surpassed me, for he was before me.'" Alphabetical: a about after and because before comes concerning cried cries existed for has He higher him I John me me' of out rank said saying surpassed testified testifies than This was who whom GSB: 1:15 {8} John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh {b} after me is preferred {c} before me: for he was before me. (8) John is a faithful witness of the excellency of Christ. (b) That is, He before whom I am sent to prepare him the way: so that these words refer to the time of his calling, and not of his age, for John was six months older than Christ. (c) This sentence has in it a turning of the reason as we call it, as one would say, a setting of that first which should be last, and that last which should be first: for in plain speech it is this, He that comes after me, is better than I am, for he was before me. We find a similar turning of the reason in Lu 7:47: Many sins are forgiven her, because she loved much, which is this much to say, She loved much, because many sins are forgiven her. PNT: 1:15 John bare witness of him. At the time of Christ's baptism when the Spirit descended. See Joh 1:33. WES: 1:15 John cried - With joy and confidence; This is he of whom I said - John had said this before our Lord's baptism, although he then knew him not in person: he knew him first at his baptism, and afterward cried, This is he of whom I said. and c. He is preferred before me - in his office: for he was before me - in his nature. MHC: 1:15-18 As to the order of time and entrance on his work, Christ came after John, but in every other way he was before him. The expression clearly shows that Jesus had existence before he appeared on earth as man. All fulness dwells in him, from which alone fallen sinners have, and shall receive, by faith, all that renders them wise, strong, holy, useful, and happy. Our receivings by Christ are all summed up in this one word, grace; we have received even grace, a gift so great, so rich, so invaluable; the good will of God towards us, and the good work of God in us. The law of God is holy, just, and good; and we should make the proper use of it. But we cannot derive from it pardon, righteousness, or strength. It teaches us to adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour, but it cannot supply the place of that doctrine. As no mercy comes from God to sinners but through Jesus Christ, no man can come to the Father but by him; no man can know God, except as he is made known in the only begotten and beloved Son. John 1:16 New American Standard Bible: For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. God's Word Translation: Each of us has received one gift after another because of all that the Word is. King James Version: And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. Bible in Basic English: From his full measure we have all been given grace on grace. Weymouth New Testament: For He it is from whose fulness we have all received, and grace upon grace. World English Bible: From his fullness we all received grace upon grace. Alphabetical: after all and another blessing For From fullness grace have his of one received the upon we GSB: 1:16 {9} And of his fulness have all we received, and {d} grace for grace. (9) Christ is the most plentiful fountain of all goodness, but he gave out his gifts most bountifully at that time when he exhibited and showed himself to the world. (d) That is, grace upon grace; as one would say, graces piled one upon another. PNT: 1:16 Of his fulness. Of grace and truth. See Joh 1:14. His grace and truth hath blessed us (the saints) all. Grace for grace. Grace (favor) has been added to grace; one blessing piled upon another. WES: 1:16 And - Here the apostle confirms the Baptist's words: as if he had said, He is indeed preferred before thee: so we have experienced: We all - That believe: have received - All that we enjoy out of his fulness: and in the particular, grace upon grace - One blessing upon another, immeasurable grace and love. MHC: John 1:17 New American Standard Bible: For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. God's Word Translation: The Teachings were given through Moses, but kindness and truth came into existence through Jesus Christ. King James Version: For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Bible in Basic English: For the law was given through Moses; grace and the true way of life are ours through Jesus Christ. Weymouth New Testament: For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. World English Bible: For the law was given through Moses. Grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. Alphabetical: and came Christ For given grace Jesus law Moses realized the through truth was were PNT: 1:17 The law was given by Moses. It was not a system of grace, nor could it make men perfect; in contrast with it the system of grace and truth (Joh 1:14) was given by Jesus Christ. WES: 1:17 The law - Working wrath and containing shadows: was given - No philosopher, poet, or orator, ever chose his words so accurately as St. John. The law, saith he, was given by Moses: grace was by Jesus Christ. Observe the reason for placing each word thus: The law of Moses was not his own. The grace of Christ was. His grace was opposite to the wrath, his truth to the shadowy ceremonies of the law. Jesus - St. John having once mentioned the incarnation {Joh 1:14,) no more uses that name, the Word, in all his book. MHC: John 1:18 New American Standard Bible: No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him. God's Word Translation: No one has ever seen God. God's only Son, the one who is closest to the Father's heart, has made him known. King James Version: No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. Bible in Basic English: No man has seen God at any time; the only Son, who is on the breast of the Father, he has made clear what God is. Weymouth New Testament: No human eye has ever seen God: the only Son, who is in the Father's bosom--He has made Him known. World English Bible: No one has seen God at any time. The one and only Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he has declared him. Alphabetical: and any at begotten bosom but ever explained Father Father's God has He him in is known made No of one Only seen side the time who GSB: 1:18 {10} No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the {e} bosom of the Father, he hath {f} declared [him]. (10) The true knowledge of God proceeds only from Jesus Christ. (e) Who is nearest to his Father, not only in respect of his love towards him, but by the bond of nature, and by means of that union or oneness that is between them, by which the Father and the Son are one. (f) Revealed him and showed him unto us, whereas before he was hidden under the shadows of the law, so that our minds were not able to perceive him: for whoever sees him, sees the Father also. PNT: 1:18 No man hath seen God, with bodily eyes, but he was manifested as the Word, and at last the only begotten Son... hath declared him. He that hath seen me, said Christ, hath seen the Father. The Father is in me, and I in him (Joh 14:9 10:38). WES: 1:18 No man hath seen God - With bodily eyes: yet believers see him with the eye of faith. Who is in the bosom of the Father - The expression denotes the highest unity, and the most intimate knowledge. MHC: John 1:19 New American Standard Bible: This is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent to him priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" God's Word Translation: This was John's answer when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" King James Version: And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? Bible in Basic English: And this is the witness of John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to him with the question, Who are you? Weymouth New Testament: This also is John's testimony, when the Jews sent to him a deputation of Priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him who he was. World English Bible: This is John's testimony, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" Alphabetical: and are ask from he him is Jerusalem Jews John John's Levites Now of priests sent testimony the this to was when who you GSB: 1:19 {11} And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? (11) John is neither the Messiah, nor like any of the other prophets, but is the herald of Christ, who is now present. PNT: 1:19 This is the record of John. The writer now plunges at once into his history. He passes by the childhood of the Lord, John's ministry, and comes at once to the time when Jesus, thirty years old, is acknowledged by the Father as the Son of God. When the Jews sent priests and Levites. The Jewish rulers, the Sanhedrin, the court or parliament of seventy-one members who ruled Israel. The delegation sent to John was official. His preaching in the wilderness of Jordan had stirred the whole land, and they were sent to ascertain his character. Matthew, Mark, and Luke use the term Jews very seldom (16 times), John often (70 times), a proof that he wrote far away from Palestine and for Gentiles. WES: 1:19 The Jews - Probably the great council sent. MHC: 1:19-28 John disowns himself to be the Christ, who was now expected and waited for. He came in the spirit and power of Elias, but he was not the person of Elias. John was not that Prophet whom Moses said the Lord would raise up to them of their brethren, like unto him. He was not such a prophet as they expected, who would rescue them from the Romans. He gave such an account of himself, as might excite and awaken them to hearken to him. He baptized the people with water as a profession of repentance, and as an outward sign of the spiritual blessings to be conferred on them by the Messiah, who was in the midst of them, though they knew him not, and to whom he was unworthy to render the meanest service. John 1:20 New American Standard Bible: And he confessed and did not deny, but confessed, "I am not the Christ." God's Word Translation: John didn't refuse to answer. He told them clearly, "I'm not the Messiah." King James Version: And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ. Bible in Basic English: He said quite openly and straightforwardly, I am not the Christ. Weymouth New Testament: He avowed--he did not conceal the truth, but avowed, "I am not the Christ." World English Bible: He declared, and didn't deny, but he declared, "I am not the Christ." Alphabetical: am And but Christ confess confessed deny did fail freely He I not the to GSB: 1:20 And he {g} confessed, and {h} denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ. (g) He did acknowledge him, and spoke of him plainly and openly. (h) This repeating of the one and the selfsame thing, though in different words, is often used by the Hebrews, and it has great force, for they used to speak one thing twice in order to set it out more certainly and plainly. PNT: 1:20,21 He confessed, etc. Some conjectured that John was the expected Christ; others that he was Elijah who was first to come (Mal 4:5); others that he was that prophet, the one predicted by Moses (De 18:15); but he declared that he was none of these. WES: 1:20 I am not the Christ - For many supposed he was. MHC: John 1:21 New American Standard Bible: They asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" And he said, "I am not." "Are you the Prophet?" And he answered, "No." God's Word Translation: They asked him, "Well, are you Elijah?" John answered, "No, I'm not." Then they asked, "Are you the prophet?" John replied, "No." King James Version: And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No. Bible in Basic English: And they said to him, What then? Are you Elijah? And he said, I am not. Are you the prophet? And his answer was, I am not. Weymouth New Testament: "What then?" they inquired; "are you Elijah?" "I am not," he said. "Are you the Prophet?" "No," he answered. World English Bible: They asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the prophet?" He answered, "No." Alphabetical: am And answered are asked Elijah He him I No not Prophet said the Then They What who you GSB: 1:21 And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, {i} I am not. Art thou {k} that prophet? And he answered, No. (i) The Jews thought that Elias would come again before the days of the Messiah, and they took as the basis of their opinion Mal 4:5, which is to be understood as referring to John, see Mt 11:14. And yet John denies that he is Elias, answering their question just as they meant it. (k) They are inquiring about some great prophet, and not about Christ, for John denied before that he is Christ, for they thought that some great prophet would be sent like Moses, using to support this position De 18:15, which is to be understood to refer to all the company of the prophets and ministers, which have been and shall be to the end, and especially of Christ who is the head of all prophets. PNT: 1:20,21 He confessed, etc. Some conjectured that John was the expected Christ; others that he was Elijah who was first to come (Mal 4:5); others that he was that prophet, the one predicted by Moses (De 18:15); but he declared that he was none of these. WES: 1:21 Art thou Elijah? - He was not that Elijah (the Tishbite) of whom they spoke. Art thou the prophet - Of whom Moses speaks, Deut 18:15. MHC: John 1:22 New American Standard Bible: Then they said to him, "Who are you, so that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?" God's Word Translation: So they asked him, "Who are you? Tell us so that we can take an answer back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" King James Version: Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? Bible in Basic English: So they said to him, Who are you then? We have to give some answer to those who sent us. What have you to say about yourself? Weymouth New Testament: So they pressed the question. "Who are you?" they said--"that we may take an answer to those who sent us. What account do you give of yourself?" World English Bible: They said therefore to him, "Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" Alphabetical: about an answer are back do Finally Give him may said say sent so take that Then they those to us we What Who you yourself PNT: 1:22,23 Who art thou? When the priests and Levites insisted that John should declare who he was, he quoted Isaiah, and said he was The voice of one crying in the wilderness. See Isa 40:3. See PNT Mt 3:3. His work was preparation for the Lord. MHC: John 1:23 New American Standard Bible: He said, "I am A VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, 'MAKE STRAIGHT THE WAY OF THE LORD,' as Isaiah the prophet said." God's Word Translation: John said, "I'm a voice crying out in the desert, 'Make the way for the Lord straight,' as the prophet Isaiah said." King James Version: He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. Bible in Basic English: He said, I am the voice of one crying in the waste land, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said Isaiah the prophet. Weymouth New Testament: "I am the voice," he replied, "of one crying aloud, 'Make straight the Lord's way in the Desert,' fulfilling the words of the Prophet Isaiah." World English Bible: He said, "I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness,'Make straight the way of the Lord,' as Isaiah the prophet said." Alphabetical: a am as calling crying desert for He I in Isaiah John Lord Lord' Make of one prophet replied said straight the voice way wilderness words PNT: 1:22,23 Who art thou? When the priests and Levites insisted that John should declare who he was, he quoted Isaiah, and said he was The voice of one crying in the wilderness. See Isa 40:3. See PNT Mt 3:3. His work was preparation for the Lord. WES: 1:23 He said - I am that forerunner of Christ of whom Isaiah speaks. I am the voice - As if he had said, Far from being Christ, or even Elijah, I am nothing but a voice: a sound that so soon as it has expressed the thought of which it is the sign, dies into air, and is known no more. Isa 40:3. MHC: John 1:24 New American Standard Bible: Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. God's Word Translation: Some of those who had been sent were Pharisees. King James Version: And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. Bible in Basic English: Those who had been sent came from the Pharisees. Weymouth New Testament: They were Pharisees who had been sent. World English Bible: The ones who had been sent were from the Pharisees. Alphabetical: been from had Now Pharisees sent some the they who GSB: 1:24 {12} And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. (12) Christ is the author of baptism, and not John: and therefore the authority of this does not come from John, who is the minister, but wholly from Christ the Lord. PNT: 1:24 Were of the Pharisees. See PNT Mt 3:7. WES: 1:24 They who were sent were of the Pharisees - Who were peculiarly tenacious of old customs, and jealous of any innovation (except those brought in by their own scribes) unless the innovator had unquestionable proofs of Divine authority. MHC: John 1:25 New American Standard Bible: They asked him, and said to him, "Why then are you baptizing, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?" God's Word Translation: They asked John, "Why do you baptize if you're not the Messiah or Elijah or the prophet?" King James Version: And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? Bible in Basic English: And they put this question to him, saying, Why then are you giving baptism if you are not the Christ, or Elijah, or the prophet? Weymouth New Testament: Again they questioned him. "Why then do you baptize," they said, "if you are neither the Christ nor Elijah nor the Prophet?" World English Bible: They asked him, "Why then do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?" Alphabetical: and are asked baptize baptizing Christ do Elijah him if nor not Prophet questioned said the then They to Why you GSB: 1:25 And they asked him, and said unto him, {l} Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? (l) By this we may prove that the Jews knew there should be some change in religion under the Messiah. PNT: 1:25 Why baptizest thou then? If he were Christ, or Elijah, or that prophet, they could understand why he should establish a new religious rite, but if none of these, why should he do so? Their perplexity shows that the baptismal rite was new to them. There is no proof that Jewish proselyte baptism of Gentile converts existed at this period, save the assertion of the Talmud, written two or three centuries after this. Josephus, who wrote in the time of the apostles, is silent about it. WES: 1:25 They asked him, Why baptizest thou then? - Without any commission from the sanhedrim? And not only heathens (who were always baptized before they were admitted to circumcision) but Jews also? MHC: John 1:26 New American Standard Bible: John answered them saying, "I baptize in water, but among you stands One whom you do not know. God's Word Translation: John answered them, "I baptize with water. Someone you don't know is standing among you. King James Version: John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; Bible in Basic English: John's answer was: I give baptism with water; but there is one among you of whom you have no knowledge; Weymouth New Testament: "I baptize in water only," John answered, "but in your midst stands One whom you do not know-- World English Bible: John answered them, "I baptize in water, but among you stands one whom you don't know. Alphabetical: among answered baptize but do I in John know not one replied saying stands them water whom with you GSB: 1:26 John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one {m} among you, whom ye know not; (m) Whom all the world sees, and sees even amongst you. PNT: 1:26,27 I baptize with water. See PNT Mt 3:11. WES: 1:26 John answered, I baptize - To prepare for the Messiah; and indeed to show that Jews, as well as Gentiles, must be proselytes to Christ, and that these as well as those stand in need of being washed from their sins. MHC: John 1:27 New American Standard Bible: "It is He who comes after me, the thong of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie." God's Word Translation: He's the one who comes after me. I am not worthy to untie his sandal strap." King James Version: He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose. Bible in Basic English: It is he who is coming after me; I am not good enough to undo his shoes. Weymouth New Testament: He who is to come after me, and whose sandal-strap I am not worthy to unfasten." World English Bible: He is the one who comes after me, who is preferred before me, whose sandal strap I'm not worthy to loosen." Alphabetical: after am comes He I is It me not of one sandal sandals the thong thongs to untie who whose worthy PNT: 1:26,27 I baptize with water. See PNT Mt 3:11. MHC: John 1:28 New American Standard Bible: These things took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing. God's Word Translation: This happened in Bethany on the east side of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing. King James Version: These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. Bible in Basic English: These things took place at Bethany on the other side of the Jordan, where John was giving baptism. Weymouth New Testament: This conversation took place at Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing. World English Bible: These things were done in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing. Alphabetical: all at baptizing Bethany beyond happened in John Jordan of on other place side the These things This took was where PNT: 1:28 These things were done in Bethabara. The Revised Version says in Bethany, a village whose site is now unknown, on the east bank of the Jordan. Bethabara means the house of the ford. WES: 1:28 Where John was baptizing - That is, used to baptize. MHC: John 1:29 New American Standard Bible: The next day he saw Jesus coming to him and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! God's Word Translation: John saw Jesus coming toward him the next day and said, "Look! This is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. King James Version: The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Bible in Basic English: The day after, John sees Jesus coming to him and says, See, here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! Weymouth New Testament: The next day John saw Jesus coming towards him and exclaimed, "Look, that is the Lamb of God who is to take away the sin of the world! World English Bible: The next day, he saw Jesus coming to him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! Alphabetical: and away Behold coming day God he him Jesus John Lamb Look next of said saw sin takes The to toward who world GSB: 1:29 {13} The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold {n} the Lamb of God, which {o} taketh away the {p} sin of the world. (13) The body and truth of all the sacrifices of the law, to make satisfaction for the sin of the world, is Christ. (n) This word the which is added has great force in it, not only to set forth the worthiness of Christ, and so to separate him for the lamb which was a symbol of him, and from all other sacrifices of the law, but also to remind us of the prophecies of Isaiah and others. (o) This word is in the present tense, and signifies a continuous act, for the Lamb rightfully has this power both now and forever to take away the sins of the world. (p) That is, that root of sins, namely, our corruption, and so consequently the fruits of sins, which are commonly called in the plural number, sins. PNT: 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus. Here Jesus first appears, in person, in John's account, who omits all the details given by Matthew and Luke of his earlier life. He was now thirty years old, and came from Galilee to Jordan to be baptized of John. This interview was after the baptism (Joh 1:33), and probably after the Temptation. Behold the Lamb of God. Innocent like the lamb, to be offered as a lamb, led as a lamb to the slaughter (Isa 53:7). The lamb was commonly used as a sin offering (Le 4:32), and when John points to Jesus as the Lamb of God he can only mean that God had provided him as a sacrificial offering. The sin of the world. Not of Jews only, but of Gentiles. John points to Jesus as the world's Savior. WES: 1:29 He seeth Jesus coming and saith, Behold the Lamb - Innocent; to be offered up; prophesied of by Isaiah, Isa 53:7, typified by the paschal lamb, and by the daily sacrifice: The Lamb of God - Whom God gave, approves, accepts of; who taketh away - Atoneth for; the sin - That is, all the sins: of the world - Of all mankind. Sin and the world are of equal extent. MHC: 1:29-36 John saw Jesus coming to him, and pointed him out as the Lamb of God. The paschal lamb, in the shedding and sprinkling of its blood, the roasting and eating of its flesh, and all the other circumstances of the ordinance, represented the salvation of sinners by faith in Christ. And the lambs sacrificed every morning and evening, can only refer to Christ slain as a sacrifice to redeem us to God by his blood. John came as a preacher of repentance, yet he told his followers that they were to look for the pardon of their sins to Jesus only, and to his death. It agrees with God's glory to pardon all who depend on the atoning sacrifice of Christ. He takes away the sin of the world; purchases pardon for all that repent and believe the gospel. This encourages our faith; if Christ takes away the sin of the world, then why not my sin? He bore sin for us, and so bears it from us. God could have taken away sin, by taking away the sinner, as he took away the sin of the old world; but here is a way of doing away sin, yet sparing the sinner, by making his Son sin, that is, a sin-offering, for us. See Jesus taking away sin, and let that cause hatred of sin, and resolutions against it. Let us not hold that fast, which the Lamb of God came to take away. To confirm his testimony concerning Christ, John declares the appearance at his baptism, in which God himself bore witness to him. He saw and bare record that he is the Son of God. This is the end and object of John's testimony, that Jesus was the promised Messiah. John took every opportunity that offered to lead people to Christ. John 1:30 New American Standard Bible: "This is He on behalf of whom I said, 'After me comes a Man who has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.' God's Word Translation: He is the one I spoke about when I said, 'A man who comes after me was before me because he existed before I did.' King James Version: This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. Bible in Basic English: This is he of whom I said, One is coming after me who is put over me because he was in existence before me. Weymouth New Testament: This is He about whom I said, 'After me is to come One who has been put before me, because He was before me.' World English Bible: This is he of whom I said,'After me comes a man who is preferred before me, for he was before me.' Alphabetical: A after because before behalf comes existed for has he higher I is man me me' meant of on one rank said surpassed than the This was when who whom PNT: 1:30 This is he of whom I said. See Joh 1:27. He was before me. Existed before I was born. MHC: John 1:31 New American Standard Bible: "I did not recognize Him, but so that He might be manifested to Israel, I came baptizing in water." God's Word Translation: I didn't know who he was. However, I came to baptize with water to show him to the people of Israel." King James Version: And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. Bible in Basic English: I myself had no knowledge of him, but I came giving baptism with water so that he might be seen openly by Israel. Weymouth New Testament: I did not yet know Him; but that He may be openly shown to Israel is the reason why I have come baptizing in water." World English Bible: I didn't know him, but for this reason I came baptizing in water: that he would be revealed to Israel." Alphabetical: baptizing be but came did he him I in Israel know manifested might myself not reason recognize revealed so that the to was water with GSB: 1:31 And {q} I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. (q) I never knew him by face before. PNT: 1:31 I knew him not. Knew not that God had chosen him to be the Christ. He knew, however, that he should be manifested in some way through his baptism. WES: 1:31 I knew him not - Till he came to be baptized. How surprising is this; considering how nearly they were related, and how remarkable the conception and birth of both had been. But there was a peculiar providence visible in our Saviour's living, from his infancy to his baptism, at Nazareth: John all the time living the life of a hermit in the deserts of Judea, Luke 1:80, ninety or more miles from Nazareth: hereby that acquaintance was prevented which might have made John's testimony of Christ suspected. MHC: John 1:32 New American Standard Bible: John testified saying, "I have seen the Spirit descending as a dove out of heaven, and He remained upon Him. God's Word Translation: John said, "I saw the Spirit come down as a dove from heaven and stay on him. King James Version: And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. Bible in Basic English: And John gave this witness, saying, I saw the Spirit coming down from heaven like a dove and resting on him. Weymouth New Testament: John also gave testimony by stating: "I have seen the Spirit coming down like a dove out of Heaven; and it remained upon Him. World English Bible: John testified, saying, "I have seen the Spirit descending like a dove out of heaven, and it remained on him. Alphabetical: a and as come descending dove down from gave have He heaven him I John of on out remain remained saw saying seen Spirit testified testimony the Then this upon GSB: 1:32 {14} And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. (14) Christ is proved to be the Son of God by the coming down of the Holy Spirit, by the Father's voice, and by John's testimony. PNT: 1:32-34 I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove. See Mt 3:16, and notes. It was revealed to John that the Christ would thus be revealed. Indeed it was the anointing of the Spirit that made Jesus the Anointed, the Christ. MHC: John 1:33 New American Standard Bible: "I did not recognize Him, but He who sent me to baptize in water said to me, 'He upon whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining upon Him, this is the One who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.' God's Word Translation: I didn't know who he was. But God, who sent me to baptize with water, had told me, 'When you see the Spirit come down and stay on someone, you'll know that person is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' King James Version: And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. Bible in Basic English: I had no knowledge who he was, but he who sent me to give baptism with water said to me, The one on whom you see the Spirit coming down and resting, it is he who gives baptism with the Holy Spirit. Weymouth New Testament: I did not yet know Him, but He who sent me to baptize in water said to me, "'The One on whom you see the Spirit coming down, and remaining, He it is who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.' World English Bible: I didn't recognize him, but he who sent me to baptize in water, he said to me,'On whomever you will see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.' Alphabetical: and baptize baptizes but come descending did down except have he him Holy I in is known man me not on one recognize remain remaining said see sent Spirit Spirit' that the this to told upon water who whom will with would you PNT: 1:32-34 I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove. See Mt 3:16, and notes. It was revealed to John that the Christ would thus be revealed. Indeed it was the anointing of the Spirit that made Jesus the Anointed, the Christ. MHC: John 1:34 New American Standard Bible: "I myself have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God." God's Word Translation: I have seen this and have declared that this is the Son of God." King James Version: And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. Bible in Basic English: This I saw myself and my witness is that he is the Son of God. Weymouth New Testament: "This I have seen, and I have become a witness that He is the Son of God." World English Bible: I have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God." Alphabetical: and God have I is myself of seen Son testified testify that the this GSB: 1:34 And I saw, and bare record that this is {r} the Son of God. (r) This word the points out to us some excellent thing, and makes a distinction between Christ and others, whom Moses and the prophets commonly call the sons of the most High. PNT: 1:32-34 I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove. See Mt 3:16, and notes. It was revealed to John that the Christ would thus be revealed. Indeed it was the anointing of the Spirit that made Jesus the Anointed, the Christ. WES: 1:34 I saw it - That is, the Spirit so descending and abiding on him. And testified - From that time. MHC: John 1:35 New American Standard Bible: Again the next day John was standing with two of his disciples, God's Word Translation: The next day John was standing with two of his disciples. King James Version: Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; Bible in Basic English: The day after, John was there again with two of his disciples; Weymouth New Testament: Again the next day John was standing with two of his disciples, World English Bible: Again, the next day, John was standing with two of his disciples, Alphabetical: again day disciples his John next of standing The there two was with GSB: 1:35 {15} Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; (15) John gathers disciples not to himself, but to Christ. PNT: 1:35 Again the next day after. In John, the account is given of the visit of the priests and Levites, sent by the Sanhedrin to John. The next day after this, John sees Jesus and points him out as the Lamb of God, giving a discourse of which, in Joh 1:19-34, we have a synopsis. On the next day after this, the third day after the deputation of the Sanhedrin, and the second after the return of Jesus from the wilderness, John stood, and two of his disciples. One of these two, we learn from Joh 1:40, was Andrew; the other, we have reason to believe, was John, the apostle. MHC: John 1:36 New American Standard Bible: and he looked at Jesus as He walked, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" God's Word Translation: John saw Jesus walk by. John said, "Look! This is the Lamb of God." King James Version: And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! Bible in Basic English: And looking at Jesus while he was walking he said, See, there is the Lamb of God! Weymouth New Testament: when he saw Jesus passing by, and said, "Look! that is the Lamb of God!" World English Bible: and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" Alphabetical: and as at Behold by God he Jesus Lamb Look looked of passing said saw the walked When GSB: 1:36 {16} And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! (16) Christ is set before us to follow, not as a vain shadow, but as our Mediator. PNT: 1:36 Behold the Lamb of God! On the preceding day John had recognized Jesus in a public discourse as the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world (Joh 1:29). Now he personally points the disciples to him. MHC: John 1:37 New American Standard Bible: The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. God's Word Translation: When the two disciples heard John say this, they followed Jesus. King James Version: And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Bible in Basic English: Hearing what he said, the two disciples went after Jesus. Weymouth New Testament: The two disciples heard his exclamation, and they followed Jesus. World English Bible: The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Alphabetical: and disciples followed heard him Jesus say speak the they this two When GSB: 1:37 {17} And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. (17) In this first gathering of the disciples we have shown to us that the beginning of salvation is from God, who calls us unto his Son by the ministry of his servants: whom, as he guides us, we must also hear, and follow him home, so that being instructed by him we may also instruct others. WES: 1:37 They followed Jesus - They walked after him, but had not the courage to speak to him. MHC: 1:37-42 The strongest and most prevailing argument with an awakened soul to follow Christ, is, that it is he only who takes away sin. Whatever communion there is between our souls and Christ, it is he who begins the discourse. He asked, What seek ye? The question Jesus put to them, we should all put to ourselves when we begin to follow Him, What do we design and desire? In following Christ, do we seek the favour of God and eternal life? He invites them to come without delay. Now is the accepted time, 2Co 6:2. It is good for us to be where Christ is, wherever it be. We ought to labour for the spiritual welfare of those related to us, and seek to bring them to Him. Those who come to Christ, must come with a fixed resolution to be firm and constant to him, like a stone, solid and stedfast; and it is by his grace that they are so. John 1:38 New American Standard Bible: And Jesus turned and saw them following, and said to them, "What do you seek?" They said to Him, "Rabbi (which translated means Teacher), where are You staying?" God's Word Translation: Jesus turned around and saw them following him. He asked them, "What are you looking for?" They said to him, "Rabbi" (which means "teacher"), "where are you staying?" King James Version: Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? Bible in Basic English: And Jesus, turning round, saw them coming after him and said to them, What are you looking for? They said to him, Rabbi (which is to say, Master), where are you living? Weymouth New Testament: Then Jesus turned round, and seeing them following He asked them, "What is your wish?" "Rabbi," they replied--'Rabbi' means 'Teacher' --"where are you staying?" World English Bible: Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, "What are you looking for?" They said to him, "Rabbi" (which is to say, being interpreted, Teacher), "where are you staying?" Alphabetical: which and are around asked do following Him Jesus means Rabbi said saw seek staying Teacher them They to translated turned Turning want What where you GSB: 1:38 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) {s} where dwellest thou? (s) Where is your lodging? PNT: 1:38 Rabbi. A term meaning teacher, or master. Where dwellest thou? These disciples had followed at the bidding of John. Their question implies a desire to be in the company of Jesus. MHC: John 1:39 New American Standard Bible: He said to them, "Come, and you will see." So they came and saw where He was staying; and they stayed with Him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. God's Word Translation: Jesus told them, "Come, and you will see." So they went to see where he was staying and spent the rest of that day with him. It was about ten o'clock in the morning. King James Version: He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour. Bible in Basic English: He said to them, Come and see. They went with him then and saw where he was living; and they were with him all that day: it was then about the tenth hour of the day. Weymouth New Testament: "Come and you shall see," He said. So they went and saw where He was staying, and they remained and spent that day with Him. It was then about ten o'clock in the morning. World English Bible: He said to them, "Come, and see." They came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day. It was about the tenth hour. Alphabetical: about and came Come day for he him hour It replied said saw see So spent stayed staying tenth that the them they to was went where will with you GSB: 1:39 He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the {t} tenth hour. (t) It was getting later in the night. PNT: 1:39 It was about the tenth hour. Counting from six o'clock, the first hour among the Jews, the tenth hour would be four p.m. MHC: John 1:40 New American Standard Bible: One of the two who heard John speak and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. God's Word Translation: Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two disciples who heard John and followed Jesus. King James Version: One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. Bible in Basic English: Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two men who, hearing what John said, went after Jesus. Weymouth New Testament: Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two who heard John's exclamation and followed Jesus. World English Bible: One of the two who heard John, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. Alphabetical: and Andrew brother followed had heard Him Jesus John of one Peter's said Simon speak the two was what who PNT: 1:40 One of the two... was Andrew. Afterwards an apostle. He has the honor of being one of the first two disciples of Jesus. MHC: John 1:41 New American Standard Bible: He found first his own brother Simon and said to him, "We have found the Messiah " (which translated means Christ). God's Word Translation: Andrew at once found his brother Simon and told him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means "Christ"). King James Version: He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. Bible in Basic English: Early in the morning he came across his brother and said to him, We have made discovery! It is the Messiah! (which is to say, the Christ). Weymouth New Testament: He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, "We have found the Messiah!" --that is to say, the Anointed One. World English Bible: He first found his own brother, Simon, and said to him, "We have found the Messiah!" (which is, being interpreted, Christ). Alphabetical: that which and Andrew brother Christ did find first found have He him his is means Messiah own said Simon tell The thing to translated was We GSB: 1:41 He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the {u} Christ. (u) That is, anointed, and king after the manner of the Jewish people. PNT: 1:41 Findeth his own brother Simon. Simon Peter. In true missionary spirit Andrew at once and first sought his own brother. We have found the Messias. The Christ promised by the prophets. Messiah is the Hebrew word meaning the same as Christ, that is, anointed one. WES: 1:41 He first findeth his own brother Simon - Probably both of them sought him: Which is, being interpreted, the Christ - This the evangelist adds, as likewise those words in John 1:38, that is, being interpreted, Master. MHC: John 1:42 New American Standard Bible: He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, "You are Simon the son of John; you shall be called Cephas " (which is translated Peter). God's Word Translation: Andrew brought Simon to Jesus. Jesus looked at Simon and said, "You are Simon, son of John. Your name will be Cephas" (which means "Peter"). King James Version: And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone. Bible in Basic English: And he took him to Jesus. Looking at him fixedly Jesus said, You are Simon, the son of John; your name will be Cephas (which is to say, Peter). Weymouth New Testament: He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, "You are Simon, son of John: you shall be called Cephas" --that is to say, Peter (or 'Rock') World English Bible: He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him, and said, "You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas" (which is by interpretation, Peter). Alphabetical: which And are at be brought called Cephas he him is Jesus John looked of Peter Peter said shall Simon son the to translated when will You PNT: 1:42 Thou shalt be called Cephas. A Hebrew word meaning stone. Peter is the Greek form. WES: 1:42 Jesus said, Thou art Simon, the son of Jonah - As none had told our Lord these names, this could not but strike Peter. Cephas, which is Peter - Moaning the same in Syriac which Peter does in Greek, namely, a rock. MHC: John 1:43 New American Standard Bible: The next day He purposed to go into Galilee, and He found Philip. And Jesus said to him, "Follow Me." God's Word Translation: The next day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee. He found Philip and told him, "Follow me!" King James Version: The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me. Bible in Basic English: The day after this, Jesus had a desire to go into Galilee. He came across Philip and said to him, Come and be my disciple. Weymouth New Testament: The next day, having decided to leave Bethany and go into Galilee, Jesus found Philip, and invited him to follow Him. World English Bible: On the next day, he was determined to go out into Galilee, and he found Philip. Jesus said to him, "Follow me." Alphabetical: and day decided Finding Follow for found Galilee go he him into Jesus leave me next Philip purposed said The to PNT: 1:43,44 Findeth Philip, and saith to him, Follow me. This is the first recorded instance of the Savior calling a disciple to follow him. Philip, it must be borne in mind, is not Philip, one of the seven (Ac 21:8), but one of the Twelve, a citizen of Bethsaida of Galilee (Joh 12:21), and a fellow-townsman of Andrew and Peter. MHC: 1:43-51 See the nature of true Christianity, it is following Jesus; devoting ourselves to him, and treading in his steps. Observe the objection Nathanael made. All who desire to profit by the word of God, must beware of prejudices against places, or denominations of men. They should examine for themselves, and they will sometimes find good where they looked for none. Many people are kept from the ways of religion by the unreasonable prejudices they conceive. The best way to remove false notions of religion, is to make trial of it. In Nathanael there was no guile. His profession was not hypocritical. He was not a dissembler, nor dishonest; he was a sound character, a really upright, godly man. Christ knows what men are indeed. Does He know us? Let us desire to know him. Let us seek and pray to be Israelites indeed, in whom is no guile; truly Christians, approved of Christ himself. Some things weak, imperfect, and sinful, are found in all, but hypocrisy belongs not to a believer's character. Jesus witnessed what passed when Nathanael was under the fig-tree. Probably he was then in fervent prayer, seeking direction as to the Hope and Consolation of Israel, where no human eye observed him. This showed him that our Lord knew the secrets of his heart. Through Christ we commune with, and benefit by the holy angels; and things in heaven and things on earth are reconciled and united together. John 1:44 New American Standard Bible: Now Philip was from Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter. God's Word Translation: (Philip was from Bethsaida, the hometown of Andrew and Peter.) King James Version: Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Bible in Basic English: Now Philip's town was Beth-saida, where Andrew and Peter came from. Weymouth New Testament: World English Bible: Now Philip was from Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter. Alphabetical: and Andrew Bethsaida city from like Now of Peter Philip the town was PNT: 1:43,44 Findeth Philip, and saith to him, Follow me. This is the first recorded instance of the Savior calling a disciple to follow him. Philip, it must be borne in mind, is not Philip, one of the seven (Ac 21:8), but one of the Twelve, a citizen of Bethsaida of Galilee (Joh 12:21), and a fellow-townsman of Andrew and Peter. MHC: John 1:45 New American Standard Bible: Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the Law and also the Prophets wrote-- Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." God's Word Translation: Philip found Nathanael and told him, "We have found the man whom Moses wrote about in his teachings and whom the prophets wrote about. He is Jesus, son of Joseph, from the city of Nazareth." King James Version: Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. Bible in Basic English: Philip came across Nathanael and said to him, We have made a discovery! It is he of whom Moses, in the law, and the prophets were writing, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. Weymouth New Testament: Then Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, "We have found him about whom Moses in the Law wrote, as well as the Prophets--Jesus, the son of Joseph, a man of Nazareth." World English Bible: Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, "We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, wrote: Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." Alphabetical: about also and found have him in Jesus Joseph Law Moses Nathanael Nazareth of one Philip prophets said son the to told We whom wrote wrote-Jesus GSB: 1:45 {18} Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. (18) God uses the good endeavours of the unlearned such that he makes them teachers of the learned. PNT: 1:45 Philip findeth Nathanael. As we learn from Joh 21:2, Nathanael was a Galilean, his home being at Cana in Galilee. His name only occurs in these two places. He is supposed to have been one of the Twelve, the same one mentioned in the other Gospels as Bartholomew (Mt 10:3 Mr 3:18 Lu 6:14), which means son of Tolmai. The use of the name in Joh 21:2 favors this hypothesis. We have found him, of whom Moses... did write. There was only one to whom this could refer, The prophet like unto Moses (De 34:10 Ac 3:22 7:37), the Messiah; and when Philip names Jesus of Nazareth, Nathanael is at once skeptical whether the Messiah could come out of Nazareth, an insignificant and despised place. WES: 1:45 Jesus of Nazareth - So Philip thought, not knowing he was born in Bethlehem. Nathanael was probably the same with Bartholomew, that is, the son of Tholomew. St. Matthew joins Bartholomew with Philip, Mt 10:3, and St. John places Nathanael in the midst of the apostles, immediately after Thomas, John 21:2, just as Bartholomew is placed, Acts 1:13. MHC: John 1:46 New American Standard Bible: Nathanael said to him, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." God's Word Translation: Nathanael said to Philip, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" Philip told him, "Come and see!" King James Version: And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see. Bible in Basic English: Nazareth! said Nathanael, Is it possible for any good to come out of Nazareth? Philip said to him, Come and see. Weymouth New Testament: "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" replied Nathanael. "Come and see," said Philip. World English Bible: Nathanael said to him, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." Alphabetical: and any anything asked Can come from good him Nathanael Nazareth of out Philip said see there thing to GSB: 1:46 {19} And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see. (19) We must especially take heed of false presumptions, which prevent us from entrance to Christ. PNT: 1:46 Come and see. That is the best answer to the skeptic. Bring him to Christ, let him consider him, and what he has done for mankind. The strongest proof that Jesus is the Christ is Jesus himself. WES: 1:46 Can any good thing come out of Nazareth? - How cautiously should we guard against popular prejudices? When these had once possessed so honest a heart as that of Nathanael, they led him to suspect the blessed Jesus himself for an impostor, because he had been brought up at Nazareth. But his integrity prevailed over that foolish bias, and laid him open to the force of evidence, which a candid inquirer will always be glad to admit, even when it brings the most unexpected discoveries. Can any good thing - That is, have we ground from Scripture to expect the Messiah, or any eminent prophet from Nazareth? Philip saith, Come and see - The same answer which he had received himself from our Lord the day before. MHC: John 1:47 New American Standard Bible: Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!" God's Word Translation: Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and remarked, "Here is a true Israelite who is sincere." King James Version: Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! Bible in Basic English: Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him and said of him, See, here is a true son of Israel in whom there is nothing false. Weymouth New Testament: Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, and said of him, "Look! here is a true Israelite, in whom there is no deceitfulness!" World English Bible: Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said about him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!" Alphabetical: a TRUE and approaching Behold coming deceit he Here him in indeed is Israelite Jesus Nathanael no nothing of said saw there to When whom GSB: 1:47 {20} Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! (20) Simple uprightness discerns the true Israelites from the false. MHC: John 1:48 New American Standard Bible: Nathanael said to Him, "How do You know me?" Jesus answered and said to him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." God's Word Translation: Nathanael asked Jesus, "How do you know anything about me?" Jesus answered him, "I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you." King James Version: Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee. Bible in Basic English: Nathanael said to him, Where did you get knowledge of me? In answer Jesus said, Before Philip was talking with you, while you were still under the fig-tree, I saw you. Weymouth New Testament: "How do you know me?" Nathanael asked. "Before Philip called you," said Jesus, "when you were under the fig-tree I saw you." World English Bible: Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." Alphabetical: and answered asked before called do fig Him How I Jesus know me Nathanael Philip said saw still the to tree under were when while you GSB: 1:48 {21} Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee. (21) The purpose of miracles is to set before us Christ the Almighty, and also the only author of our salvation, in order that we may apprehend him by faith. PNT: 1:48 Whence knowest thou me? Nathanael, who had never met Jesus before, was surprised to hear himself spoken of as one known. When thou wast under the fig tree. There was something about this answer that filled Nathanael with astonishment. Under the shade and shelter of the fig tree he had some rare experience that is not recorded, and that he supposed unknown to man. That Jesus knew of it and read his soul startled him and dissipated his unbelief. WES: 1:48 Under the fig tree I saw thee - Perhaps at prayer. MHC: John 1:49 New American Standard Bible: Nathanael answered Him, "Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel." God's Word Translation: Nathanael said to Jesus, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the king of Israel!" King James Version: Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel. Bible in Basic English: Nathanael said to him, Rabbi, you are the Son of God, you are King of Israel! Weymouth New Testament: "Rabbi," cried Nathanael, "you are the Son of God, you are Israel's King!" World English Bible: Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are King of Israel!" Alphabetical: answered are declared God Him Israel King Nathanael of Rabbi Son the Then you PNT: 1:49 Thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel. Philip had said, Jesus, the son of Joseph (Joh 1:45), as he supposed, but Nathanael, convinced, declared him the Son of God. This is the first confession of the divinity of Jesus. WES: 1:49 Nathanael answered - Happy are they that are ready to believe, swift to receive the truth and grace of God. Thou art the Son of God - So he acknowledges now more than he had heard from Philip: The Son of God, the king of Israel - A confession both of the person and office of Christ. MHC: John 1:50 New American Standard Bible: Jesus answered and said to him, "Because I said to you that I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You will see greater things than these." God's Word Translation: Jesus replied, "You believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that." King James Version: Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, believest thou? thou shalt see greater things than these. Bible in Basic English: In answer Jesus said to him, You have faith because I said to you, I saw you under the fig-tree. You will see greater things than these. Weymouth New Testament: "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under the fig-tree,'" replied Jesus, "do you believe? You shall see greater things than that." World English Bible: Jesus answered him, "Because I told you,'I saw you underneath the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these!" Alphabetical: and answered because believe do fig greater him I Jesus said saw see shall than that the these things to told tree under will You MHC: John 1:51 New American Standard Bible: And He said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see the heavens opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." God's Word Translation: Jesus said to Nathanael, "I can guarantee this truth: You will see the sky open and God's angels going up and coming down to the Son of Man." King James Version: And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man. Bible in Basic English: And he said to him, Truly I say to you all, You will see heaven opening and God's angels going up and coming down on the Son of man. Weymouth New Testament: "I tell you all in most solemn truth," He added, "that you shall see Heaven opened wide, and God's angels going up, and coming down to the Son of Man." World English Bible: He said to him, "Most certainly, I tell you, hereafter you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." Alphabetical: added and angels ascending descending God He heaven heavens him I Man of on open opened said say see shall Son tell the then to Truly truth will you GSB: 1:51 And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God {x} ascending and descending upon the Son of man. (x) These words signify the power of God which would appear in Christ's ministry by the angels serving him as the head of the Church. PNT: 1:51 The angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man. Jacob, old Israel, in his dream at Bethel, saw the ladder that reached to heaven with the angels upon it (Ge 28:12). Christ is that ladder, the way from earth to heaven, the way heaven sends messages to the world and the way we must go to reach it. Nathanael would be permitted to see that Jesus was the Mediator, that through him the Father speaks to man; that through him there is intercommunication between earth and heaven. WES: 1:51 Hereafter ye shall see - All of these, as well as thou, who believe on me now in my state of humiliation, shall hereafter see me come in my glory, and all the angels of God with me. This seems the most natural sense of the words, though they may also refer to his ascension. MHC: Online Parallel Bible NASB, GWT, KJV, NIV, GWT, NLT, ASV, Matthew Henry's Commentary, Chapter and Verse Old and New Testament Christian Bible Study, Concordance, Chain Links, Cross Reference for pastors, teachers and students