Definition: Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from John 18:23. It’s a really complex verse, and it’s often misunderstood! Here's an explanation in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Jesus was arrested and put on trial for Jesus’s murder. He had just spoken to the crowd and then was betrayed by one of his disciples. The Gospels (the accounts of Jesus’ life) tell us that he was severely beaten and humiliated. What Jesus is Saying – It's a Question about His Actions: Jesus isn’t saying he did do something wrong. He's asking a profound question: “If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil.” Let’s unpack that: "Speak Evil?" - This is a really powerful phrase. It means Jesus felt like he was being dishonest or misleading. He believed he was lying about something crucial – perhaps about his words, or about his intentions. “Bear Witness of the Evil?” – This is where it gets deeper. The word “witness” means to tell a truth. So, he’s asking if he is being deceptive, if he's making something up that isn't true. What Jesus Means (and what scholars believe): Most Bible scholars interpret this verse as a statement about Jesus’s own conscience and his desire to be truthful. He was feeling deeply troubled by the situation – the betrayal, the beating, and the potential for him to be misleading. He wasn't trying to accuse anyone; he was simply grappling with his own guilt and asking if he had been dishonest in some way. Important Note: It’s NOT about a deliberate lie. It’s more about a feeling of deep remorse and a desire for honesty. Why is this verse so significant? This passage highlights several key themes: Jesus's humanity: It shows that Jesus was deeply concerned with his own actions and the truthfulness of his words, even when he was facing intense pressure. The importance of honesty: It emphasizes that honesty is crucial – it’s not enough to simply say something; you need to be truthful about what you've done. The struggle between good and evil: It shows a moment where even someone seemingly righteous could wrestle with doubt and remorse. --- Resources for further understanding: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/18/John](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/18/John) - This website has summaries and explanations of biblical passages. Wikipedia – John 18:23: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_18%2A23] - A good overview of the context and interpretation. Would you like me to: Explain a different part of this verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage?