John 10:33 Meaning and Explanation
“The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →They answer that the stoning is not for any good work but for blasphemy: he, being a man, makes himself God.
What Does John 10:33 Mean?
The accusers state plainly what they heard in "I and my Father are one." Under the law blasphemy carried death (Leviticus 24:16), and they judge his words by that statute: a man claiming what belongs to God. The same charge will reappear at his trial (Mark 14:61-64) — this is the issue on which he will be condemned.
They grasped the size of the claim and misjudged its truth. Jesus had not "made himself" anything; the works, the voice, and the Father's witness showed what he already was — the Word made flesh dwelling among them (John 1:14). The verse leaves no refuge in a smaller Jesus: the people who heard him longest knew exactly what he was claiming.
John 10:33 in the Original Language
blasphemia (βλασφημία), 'blasphemy' -- injurious speech; claiming or insulting what belongs to God.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 10:33
What does John 10:33 mean?
They answer that the stoning is not for any good work but for blasphemy: he, being a man, makes himself God.