What does John 16:2 mean?

Explanation

[John 16:2] is a part of Jesus' farewell discourse (John 14-17), where Jesus prepares his disciples for his upcoming departure.

In this verse, Jesus warns his followers that they will face persecution.

The phrase "They shall put you out of the synagogues" refers to excommunication, a punishment indicating that the followers of Jesus would be cast out from the Jewish community and its religious life.

The subsequent part, "yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service," suggests a more severe persecution, including martyrdom.

The deeper meaning alludes to the idea that the persecutors would sincerely believe that their actions were acts of faithful service to God.

Historical Context

Written at the end of the 1st century AD, the Gospel of John reflects the experiences of the early Christian community, which was increasingly becoming distinct from Judaism.

By the time of the Gospel's composition, Christians faced opposition not only from Roman authorities but also from Jewish leaders who saw them as heretics or apostates.

Jewish followers of Jesus could be excommunicated from the synagogues for their beliefs, with the community's rejection serving as a form of persecution.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse reflects the belief in suffering for righteousness and truth.

It is a testament to the prophetic nature of Jesus' teachings, as early Christians were indeed persecuted, with some facing death.

The verse also invites readers to consider the potential danger of religious zealotry when it harms others in the name of faith.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can serve as a source of strength and awareness for those facing persecution for their beliefs.

It encourages resilience and preparedness for the faithful and serves as a sober reminder for all to examine their actions critically, ensuring that one's understanding of religious duty does not lead to the harm of others.

Cross-References

• Matthew 10:17 - "But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;"
• Acts 9:1-2 - "And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem."
• Revelation 2:10 - "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."

Language Study

• Put you out (Greek: ἀποσυνάγωγος, aposynagogos): This term literally means to expel from the synagogue, indicating a formal separation of the person from the Jewish community.
• Synagogues (Greek: συναγωγῶν, synagōgōn): Refers to Jewish places of worship and assembly where the Torah would be read and discussed.
• Killeth (Greek: ἀποκτείνω, apokteino): To slay or murder, with a range of applications from judicial execution to assassination.
• Doeth God service (Greek: λατρεία, latreia): This means performing service or worship, strongly associated with what is due to God in terms of honor and reverence.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be drawn with other religious traditions where followers believed they were serving divine will through persecution.

For instance, during the Spanish Inquisition, the Catholic Church persecuted individuals they deemed heretics, believing they were upholding the faith.

These historical parallels point to a recurring pattern of religious persecution in different cultural contexts.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives might explore the psychological and sociological factors behind religious extremism and violence.

Studies in social psychology, for instance, can provide insights into how group dynamics and identity can lead to rigid thinking and lead individuals to commit acts of violence under the pretext of following divine commands.

Commentaries

Commentators generally agree that John 16:2 highlights the themes of persecution and martyrdom that early Christians faced.

Many suggest that the verse serves to comfort and fortify believers by forewarning them of trials they would encounter.

Matthew Henry's commentary emphasizes the notion that persecutors might be motivated by misguided zeal.

The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges notes the stark reality of these challenges and the integral part they play in the Johannine community's experience.

These interpretations underscore a common agreement on the verse's meaning and its relevance to the early Christian experience.