Bible Strands
John 5:34
Even though I do not accept human testimony, I say these things so that you may be saved.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Jesus addresses the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem who previously sent messengers to John the Baptist. He speaks during a dispute over the authority of His claims, following His healing of a paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda.
The words — The Greek phrase οὐ λαμβάνω μαρτυρίαν παρὰ ἀνθρώπου (ou lambanō martyrian para anthrōpou) literally translates to "I do not receive testimony from man." This establishes that His authority stands independent of human witnesses, even as He references them for their benefit.
The thread — The purpose of written witness for salvation runs in John 20:31, where records are given so readers may believe and live. Paul echoes this salvation focus in 1 Timothy 4:16 by commanding perseverance in teaching and conduct as the means to secure salvation.
Why it lands — The text demands that listeners prioritize eternal deliverance over the validation of human opinion. It requires a deliberate choice to accept divine witness rather than rely on social or religious approval.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.
Cross-references
- Luke 19:41 As Jesus approached Jerusalem and saw the city, He wept over it
- John 20:31 But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.
- 1 Timothy 4:16 Pay close attention to your life and to your teaching. Persevere in these things, for by so doing you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
- 1 John 5:9 Even if we accept human testimony, the testimony of God is greater. For this is the testimony that God has given about His Son.
- John 5:41 I do not accept glory from men,
- Romans 10:1 Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is for their salvation.
- 1 Corinthians 9:22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.
- 1 Timothy 2:3 This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior,
- Luke 24:47 and in His name repentance and forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed to all nations, beginning in Jerusalem.
- John 8:54 Jesus answered, “If I glorify Myself, My glory means nothing. The One who glorifies Me is My Father, of whom you say, ‘He is our God.’