But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.

JOHN 5:36KJV
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John 5:36 (KJV)

What does John 5:36 mean?

John 5:36 records Jesus saying that the works He does are an even greater proof of who He is than the testimony given by John the Baptist. Jesus explains that the miracles and actions He performs, which were given to Him by God the Father to complete, show clearly that He was sent by the Father.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a group of Jewish religious leaders who are questioning His authority and identity. He points out that while John the Baptist’s words about Him were important, the things Jesus is actually doing—like healing and other miracles—are a stronger, direct confirmation from God. Jesus is making it clear that His mission and power come from God Himself, not just from human testimony.

The Greek behind John 5:36

  • μαρτυρία (martyria, "witness"): This word means evidence or testimony. Jesus is saying His actions are a kind of living proof, not just words or claims.
  • ἔργα (erga, "works"): This refers to the deeds or miracles Jesus performs. The Greek emphasizes these are not ordinary actions but significant works given by God.
  • ἀπέσταλκέν (apestalken, "has sent"): This verb highlights that Jesus was sent with authority and purpose by God the Father, stressing a mission rather than just wandering or acting on His own.

Why John 5:36 matters

  • John 5:36 clarifies that Jesus’ authority is not based only on human approval or testimony, but on the visible, powerful works God gave Him to do.
  • This verse helps the reader see that Jesus’ miracles are not just random acts of kindness, but are meant to show God’s approval and purpose for Jesus.
  • In the wider context, John 5:36 shows how Jesus responds to skepticism by pointing to evidence that can be seen and experienced, not just heard about.

Where else these words appear

“finish” Greek G5048 · used in 24 verses

  • Luke 2:43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
  • Hebrews 10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

“witness” Greek G3141 · used in 33 verses

  • Mark 14:55 And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none.
  • John 5:32 There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.
  • 1 John 5:10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.

“greater” Greek G3187 · used in 42 verses

  • Matthew 11:11 Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
  • Luke 12:18 And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.
  • John 19:11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.

“witness” Greek G3140 · used in 75 verses

  • Matthew 23:31 Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.
  • John 10:25 Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me.
  • Galatians 4:15 Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.