Definition: Did not Moses give you the law, and [yet] none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill me?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful and complex verse from John 7:19. It’s a truly fascinating and symbolic passage that gets at some deep theological ideas. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about the relationship between God and humanity, and it challenges our understanding of obedience and faith. It essentially asks: “Are we truly following God, or are we just going through the motions?” Here’s a breakdown of what each part means: "John 7:19” : This is the beginning of the verse. It’s a specific moment in time – John’s testimony about the Resurrection. “Did not Moses give you the law?” : This refers to the Old Testament laws and commandments given by God to the Israelites. These laws were a set of rules and guidelines for living a righteous life, outlining what was right and wrong. Think of it like a blueprint for how to be a good person. “And [yet] none of you keepeth the law?” : This is where the question gets really profound. It’s asking if people are following God’s laws at all . It implies that many people aren't genuinely striving to live according to God's will. “Why go ye about to kill me?” : This is the shocking part. Jesus isn’t just talking about a physical act of violence. He’s using this metaphor to express his frustration with humanity’s lack of faith and obedience. It's like saying, "You're trying to harm me, but you don't truly care about following what I've taught you." The Interpretation - A Deeper Meaning: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against: Blind Faith: It suggests that people are relying on rules and traditions without genuine understanding or commitment. They’re not truly following God, but simply going through the motions. Lack of Spiritual Maturity: It implies that some people aren't growing in their faith and aren't truly striving to be like God. The Danger of Legalism: The verse warns against focusing solely on rules and laws without a deeper understanding of why they are important – the love of God, compassion, and living a life according to His will. Important Note: It's crucial to understand that this isn’t about Jesus being angry with everyone. It’s a powerful statement about human nature. Jesus is highlighting our potential for both good and evil. In short, the verse is a challenge to examine ourselves – are we truly following God, or are we just going through the motions? --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail using different analogies? Discuss its significance within the context of the Gospels? Explore some related biblical concepts (like the concept of a "new covenant")?