And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him?

JOHN 10:20KJV
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John 10:20 (KJV)

What does John 10:20 mean?

John 10:20 describes how many people accused Jesus of being possessed by a demon and being insane, questioning why anyone would listen to him. This verse shows the strong opposition and disbelief Jesus faced from some in the crowd as he spoke.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking publicly, and the people are divided in their opinions about him. Some listeners respond harshly, saying he "hath a devil" (meaning they believe he is under the influence of an evil spirit) and is "mad" (insane). Their reaction highlights the controversy surrounding Jesus’ words and identity at this point in the Gospel.

The Greek behind John 10:20

  • "devil" (δαιμόνιον, daimonion): This Greek word often refers to an evil spirit or demon, not the devil (Satan) himself. Here, the accusation is that Jesus is under the power of a harmful spiritual force.
  • "mad" (μαίνεται, mainetai): This word means to be out of one's mind or insane. The crowd is not just dismissing Jesus’ teaching but suggesting he is mentally unstable.
  • "why" (τί, ti): This word introduces a rhetorical question, pressing others to justify why they would pay attention to someone they believe is demon-possessed and mad. It shows the depth of their rejection.

Why John 10:20 matters

  • John 10:20 clears up that not everyone who heard Jesus was convinced by his message; some thought he was dangerous or delusional, which helps explain the growing tension leading up to his arrest.
  • The verse emphasizes the sharp division among the people about who Jesus really is, a theme that runs throughout John’s Gospel.
  • Understanding this reaction helps readers see the courage it took for Jesus to speak openly and the challenges faced by those who chose to follow him.

Where else these words appear

“mad” Greek G3105 · used in 5 verses

  • Acts 12:15 And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel.
  • Acts 26:24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.
  • Acts 26:25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.

“devil” Greek G1140 · used in 52 verses

  • Matthew 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
  • Mark 9:38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
  • Luke 11:14 And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake; and the people wondered.