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Book of John - Chapter 16 - Verse 31

16:31
Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe?

Meaning

When Jesus asked his disciples, "Do ye now believe?" in the book of John (John 16:31), he was addressing their declaration of faith in him. This question reflects Jesus's awareness of their current state of belief and challenges them to consider the full implications of their confession. Despite their profession of faith, Jesus knew that they would soon abandon him in the face of his impending crucifixion. By asking this question, Jesus is prompting his disciples to reflect on the depth of their commitment to him and to understand the challenges that lay ahead. This verse serves as a reminder that faith is not just a one-time declaration, but an ongoing journey of growth and commitment. It highlights the importance of examining our belief in times of trial and testing, to ensure that our faith remains steadfast and true.

Theological Overview

In this verse, Jesus is addressing his disciples after they express their belief in him. The question "Do ye now believe?" may seem straightforward, but a deeper theological interpretation reveals Jesus' awareness of the disciples' wavering faith. The Greek word for "believe" used here is "pisteuete," which signifies not just a mental acknowledgment of truth but also a deep trust and reliance on Jesus as the Messiah. Jesus' question challenges the disciples to examine the sincerity and depth of their faith. It prompts them to reflect on whether their belief in him will withstand the trials and challenges that lie ahead. This verse serves as a reminder for believers today to continually assess the strength of their faith in Jesus and to ensure that it is rooted in unwavering trust and commitment to him.

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