Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.

JOHN 18:20KJV
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John 18:20 (KJV)

What does John 18:20 mean?

John 18:20 records Jesus telling the high priest that he has always spoken openly to everyone, teaching in public places like synagogues and the temple, and has not hidden his message or taught anything in secret. Jesus is making it clear that nothing about his teaching was concealed or exclusive.

In this scene, Jesus is being questioned after his arrest. He responds to the high priest’s inquiry by pointing out that his teachings were always public and accessible, not secretive or subversive. This statement highlights that anyone could have heard what he taught, and there was nothing hidden or mysterious about his message.

The Greek behind John 18:20

  • The word "openly" (παρρησίᾳ, parrēsia) means "with openness" or "with boldness." Here, it emphasizes that Jesus did not hide his teachings or speak in riddles—he was straightforward and transparent.
  • The phrase "in secret" (ἐν κρυπτῷ, en kryptō) means "in a hidden or concealed place." Jesus uses this to stress that he never tried to create a private, hidden movement; his message was for all to hear.
  • The verb "resort" (συνέρχομαι, synerchomai) is often understood as "to gather together." This shows that Jesus taught where people regularly assembled, making his message accessible to the Jewish community.

Why John 18:20 matters

  • John 18:20 clears up any suspicion that Jesus was leading a secretive or rebellious group; he insists that his message was always public.
  • This verse emphasizes Jesus’s transparency and honesty, showing he had nothing to hide from the authorities or the people.
  • The statement connects to the larger narrative, where Jesus’s openness contrasts with the secretive actions of his accusers, highlighting the fairness and openness of his ministry.

Where else these words appear

“secret” Greek G2927 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 6:4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
  • Luke 8:17 For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.
  • Romans 2:29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

“openly” Greek G3954 · used in 31 verses

  • Mark 8:32 And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him.
  • Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
  • 1 Timothy 3:13 For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

“resort” Greek G4905 · used in 32 verses

  • Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
  • Acts 5:16 There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.
  • Acts 21:22 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.

“ever” Greek G3842 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 26:11 For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.
  • 2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.
  • Colossians 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.