John 5:38 (KJV)

What does John 5:38 mean?

John 5:38 says that the people Jesus is speaking to do not have God's word living or remaining in them, because they do not believe in the one God has sent. Jesus is pointing out that their lack of faith in him shows that God's message has not truly taken root in their hearts.

In this verse, Jesus is addressing a group of Jewish leaders who are questioning his authority and identity. He tells them that, even though they study the Scriptures, they do not actually let God's word shape or guide them, as shown by their refusal to believe in him as the one sent by God. This statement highlights the gap between knowing religious texts and truly accepting their message.

The Greek behind John 5:38

• λόγος (logos): This word is translated as "word" and often refers to a message, teaching, or divine communication. Here, it means God's message or truth, which Jesus says is not "abiding" in his listeners.
• μένω (menō): Translated as "abiding," this word means to remain, dwell, or stay. Jesus uses it to describe how God's word is not living or taking up residence in the hearts of his audience.
• πιστεύω (pisteuō): This verb means "to believe" or "to trust." Jesus connects the lack of belief in him directly to the absence of God's word within them.

Why John 5:38 matters

• John 5:38 clarifies that knowing Scripture is not enough; what matters is letting God's message truly shape one's beliefs and actions.
• The verse emphasizes that faith in Jesus is the key evidence of having God's word alive within a person, according to Jesus' teaching.
• This statement sets up the larger discussion in John 5, where Jesus challenges the religious leaders' understanding of Scripture and their response to God's revelation through him.