What does John 8:17 mean?

Explanation

John 8:17 is a verse where Jesus refers to a legal principle from the Jewish Law to support his argument.

In the context, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, who are questioning the validity of his testimony.

Jesus responds by invoking the standard from the law that states a matter is confirmed on the basis of two or three witnesses.

In this way, he is upholding Jewish law while also making an implicit claim about the divine confirmation of his own testimony, as he is the Son of God and his Father is also bearing witness to him (as seen in the following verse, John 8:18).

Historical Context

The Gospel of John is traditionally believed to have been written toward the end of the first century AD.

At that time, Christians were largely part of the Jewish community.

The law that Jesus is referring to was part of the Torah, the Hebrew Scriptures, which provided the societal and religious foundation for Jewish people.

The need for multiple witnesses was a common legal principle in ancient judicial systems, ensuring the credibility of testimony in legal matters.

This provided a safeguard against false accusations and unjust verdicts.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be seen as a unique interplay between Jesus' human nature and divine nature.

It suggests that Jesus is expecting his audience to accept the standard legal practices of the time while at the same time pointing to a higher testimony, that of His Father, God.

Some Christian theologians might see it as a foreshadowing of the Trinitarian concept, with Jesus (the Son) indicating that he is not alone since the Father is also bearing witness to him.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, John 8:17 can remind individuals of the importance of reliability and integrity in their assertions.

It encourages seeking corroboration and being thorough when making claims, especially in significant matters.

It also touches on the concept of accountability, as personal testimony carries weight and responsibility, and so should be delivered with care and truthfulness.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 17:6: "At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death."
• Deuteronomy 19:15: "One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established."
• Matthew 18:16: "But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established."
• 2 Corinthians 13:1: "This is the third time I am coming to you.

In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word "nomos" (νόμος) is translated as "law," and it specifically refers to the Mosaic Law that was central to Jewish life and religious practice.

The phrase "the testimony of two men is true" in Greek is πάσα ῥἡσις δύο ἀνθρώπων ἀληθής ἐστίν, where "ἀληθής" (alēthēs) means true, valid, or certain. This legal principle emphasized the necessity for corroborative evidence.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, many cultures placed a high value on the testimony of multiple witnesses for confirming truth. The principle found in Jewish law was not unique to them but mirrored broader ancient Near Eastern legal practices.

Many cultures understood that the collaborative testimony was stronger than that of an individual, helping to protect against deceit and false testimony.

Scientific Perspectives

While there is no direct scientific correlate to this legal principle, modern psychology and law also recognize the importance of multiple data points or witness accounts for establishing facts.

The phenomenon of eyewitness testimony reliability and memory has been widely studied, and it's recognized that corroboration among independent witnesses is a critical component of investigative processes.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and religious commentators have examined John 8:17. They often focus on its context within Jesus' discussion with the Pharisees, highlighting how Jesus validates the law while simultaneously affirming his divine authority.

Many commentaries dwell on the essential Jewish legal guideline about witnesses and consider how Jesus used this to affirm the veracity of his mission and identity.

Some commentaries also delve into the implications this has for understanding Christ's relationship with the Father and the unity they share in the Christian concept of the Trinity.