Definition: Jesus answered and said unto them, Though I bear record of myself, [yet] my record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 8:14. It’s a really important and slightly tricky one that gets to the heart of Jesus’ identity and teaching. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling people that he knows where he’s coming from and where he’s going, but they don’t know where he came from or where he's going. It’s like saying "I know this place, and I’m heading here, but you don’t know where I started." Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “John 8:14 Jesus answered…” : This is the beginning of the conversation. Jesus is speaking to a group of people. “…and said unto them…” : He's talking directly to them. “Though I bear record of myself…” : This is where it gets interesting. “Bear record” means to tell something, to document something. Jesus is saying he’s already been here and done things. “…yet my record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go;” : This part says that his "record" – meaning what he's done – is accurate. He does know where he started (his human life) and where he’s going (to the afterlife). “But ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go.” : This is the key part. Jesus says that they – the people – can't possibly understand him. He explains why: "Wherebe I come..." : He’s talking about his human origins - his birth, his upbringing. "...and whither I go..." : He's referring to his future life after death—his resurrection and eternal existence. What does this mean? This verse is a powerful illustration of Jesus’ teaching about His divinity. It means: He’s God: Jesus claims to be God, not just a human being. His Identity Is Revealed: He's not just appearing as a human; he’s already been created and has a definite beginning and end. Mystery of Faith: It's a mystery that humans can’t fully grasp. We can see his actions, but we don't fully understand why he does them or where he is going. In essence, it’s about the distinction between appearances and reality. Jesus is showing us that while he is a human being, his purpose and destiny are far greater than anything we can comprehend. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to another Bible passage? Give an example of how this concept applies to everyday life?