Definition: These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 9:22. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage about Jesus and his relationship with his family. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus was telling his parents that he didn’t believe he was the Messiah – the person prophesied to come and save humanity. They were worried because Jewish people, who held a very specific belief about Jesus' identity, had already agreed that if someone confessed that he was Christ, they would be kicked out of the synagogue (a religious gathering). Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “These [words] spake his parents…” : This means Jesus was speaking to his parents. “…because they feared the Jews…” : This is key. The parents were worried because they understood that Jewish people believed a very specific thing about Jesus – that he was the Messiah, the one prophesied in the Old Testament. They feared this belief would cause problems for them and their community. “…for the Jews had agreed already…” : This shows how deeply ingrained this belief was within Jewish society. They were practically certain Jesus was who they believed him to be. “…that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.” : This is the shocking part! They believed that if someone confessed that Jesus was Christ, they would be banished from the synagogue – meaning they wouldn’t be allowed to participate in religious services. So, what does this mean? Jesus was essentially saying: "I don't believe I am the Messiah. I'm not the one prophesied to come and save people." He was trying to avoid being part of a group that held a very specific and potentially disruptive belief about his identity. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a moment where Jesus showed his power and independence. It’s like he was saying, "I'm not bound by tradition or expectations. I have my own understanding of who I am." It also highlights the tension between faith and expectation – how people interpret religious beliefs and how those beliefs can impact community life. In short, it's a story about Jesus being aware of his place in the Jewish world and choosing to express his independent belief. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss its symbolism? Compare it to other stories or teachings from the Bible?