Commentary on John 7:29

John 7:29 states:

"But I know Him: for I am from Him, and He hath sent me."

This verse is a profound declaration of Jesus Christ’s divine identity and mission. It succinctly encapsulates the relationship between Christ and the Father, emphasizing His authority and purpose. Below is an amalgamation of insights from various public domain commentaries which explore the theological and contextual significance of this verse.

Contextual Background

The context of John 7 is critical in understanding this verse. The chapter takes place during the Feast of Tabernacles, a time of great religious significance for the Jewish people. This festival celebrated God's provision during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings and was a time of great festivity.

During this period, Jesus' teachings and claims drew reactions from the people and religious leaders. Here, He was probing the disparity between spiritual knowledge and superficial understanding.

The Nature of Christ's Knowledge

Divine Awareness: The phrase "But I know Him" reflects Jesus' intimate knowledge of God the Father. Matthew Henry writes that this knowledge is not mere acquaintance, but a deep, inherent understanding that Jesus possesses as the Son of God. It establishes His authority as the one who has come from the Father.

Contrast with Human Understanding: Jesus contrasts His deep and personal knowledge of God with the ignorance of the masses. Albert Barnes comments on how many could not perceive the true nature of Jesus’ mission because they relied on their own limited understanding of Scripture and tradition.

The Origin of Christ

Jesus asserts, "for I am from Him." This phrase affirms that Christ's origin is divine, and He is not merely a prophet or a teacher who has come from men. Adam Clarke emphasizes that Jesus’ presence on earth is a result of His unique relationship with the Father; He was sent into the world to fulfill God’s redemptive plan.

Theological Implications

• The Trinity: This verse underscores the doctrine of the Trinity, where Jesus (the Son) and God (the Father) are distinct yet unified. Their relationship is one of perfect fellowship and understanding.
• The Authority of Christ: By stating His mission is sanctioned by the Father, Jesus affirms His authority in teaching, performing miracles, and offering salvation. The people are invited to acknowledge the source of His authority rather than question it.
• Incarnation and Mission: The phrase "He hath sent me" illustrates the purpose of the Incarnation. Jesus was not an accidental leader; His coming was intentional, foreordained, and directed by God to reveal Himself to humanity.

Practical Applications

Faith and Recognition: Pastors and theologians can draw lessons from this passage regarding the importance of recognizing and knowing God through Christ. It challenges believers to seek a deeper relationship with God and understand Christ’s identity not just as historical facts but as living truth.

Call to Evangelism: As Jesus was sent to reveal the Father, so too are believers called to share their knowledge of Him with others. This verse serves as a reminder of the necessity of spiritual witness in a world engulfed by misunderstanding and skepticism.

Conclusion

John 7:29 stands as a profound statement of the divine nature of Christ and His mission. It calls every believer towards a deeper understanding and relationship with God. The insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke illuminate the importance of recognizing Jesus as the true and sent revelation of the Father, reiterating the essential truths of Christianity.