Definition: Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from John 8:48. It's a really important moment in Jesus’ ministry and it’s packed with meaning! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: Jesus is responding to the question “Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?” This phrase was uttered by some of the Jewish leaders – they were suspicious of Jesus because he was traveling among them. They were asking if he wasn’t a liar or a fraud. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Say we not well…” : This is a direct question from the Jewish leaders. They are essentially accusing Jesus of deception. “…that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?” : This is the core of their accusation. They’re asking if Jesus was lying about his identity – specifically, if he was actually a Jew. They're also implying that he possessed something unnatural or evil (a "devil"). What it really means – it’s about testing Jesus: This question isn’t just an accusation of dishonesty. It’s a strategic move by the Jewish leaders to test Jesus. They want to see if he will: Defend himself: If he is a Samaritan, they believe they have a right to doubt him. Show his power: They're trying to make a big show of their suspicion and challenge him. Jesus’ Response – A Powerful Statement: Jesus immediately responds with: " How many there are even among you, Jews and physicians, I know not. ” (This is a key part of the verse). What does this suggest? He’s acknowledging their challenge: Jesus understands they’re trying to provoke him. He's asserting his identity: Crucially, he declares that he knows who he is – a Jewish man sent to do God’s work. This was a fundamental part of his message and his understanding of his divine purpose. Why it's important: This passage highlights several important themes: The power of faith: Jesus wasn’t just answering questions; he was demonstrating his authority and truth through his words. Testing the boundaries of belief: It shows that even those who believe in Jesus are capable of questioning him, which is a sign of the true believers. His divine nature: By stating he knew who he was, Jesus reinforced his claim to be God’s Son and the Messiah. In short, this verse is a powerful demonstration of Jesus' identity, his authority, and his relationship with God. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss the context of this event in more detail? Connect it to a specific theme in the Bible (like the conflict between Jewish and Christian beliefs)?