If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.
If {G1487} I do {G4160} not {G3756} the works {G2041} of my {G3450} Father {G3962}, believe {G4100} me {G3427} not {G3361}.
“If I am not doing deeds that reflect my Father’s power, don’t trust me.
If I am not doing the works of My Father, then do not believe Me.
If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
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John 15:24
If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. -
John 10:25
Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me. -
John 12:37
¶ But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him: -
John 12:40
He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with [their] eyes, nor understand with [their] heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. -
Matthew 11:20
Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not: -
Matthew 11:24
But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee. -
John 5:31
¶ If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.
Context
This verse is part of a heated exchange between Jesus and the Jews in Jerusalem during the Feast of Dedication. Jesus has just declared, "I and my Father are one" (John 10:30). This statement is perceived as blasphemy by the Jewish leaders, who then attempt to stone Him (John 10:31). In response, Jesus challenges their reaction by pointing to His actions, arguing that His works provide undeniable evidence of His divine connection and authority. Verse 37 serves as a crucial part of His defense, directing them away from merely His words to the tangible proof of His identity.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The key term here is "works" (Greek: erga). This doesn't just mean good deeds but refers specifically to the powerful, divine acts and miracles performed by Jesus. By calling them "the works of my Father," Jesus emphasizes that these actions originate from God Himself, demonstrating a unique and intimate partnership.
Commentary and Significance
Jesus presents a clear challenge: if His actions do not bear the unmistakable mark of God's power and character, then they are justified in not believing His claims about His identity and relationship with the Father. However, if His works demonstrably are "the works of my Father" (John 5:36), then they should accept the truth of who He is, even if they struggle with His words. This highlights the profound connection between Jesus' actions and His divine nature. His miracles were not just acts of compassion or power displays, but signs intended to reveal His identity as the Son sent by the Father. He reiterates this point shortly after: "But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him" (John 10:38).
Reflection and Application
This verse reminds us that faith in Jesus is not unreasonable. It is supported by the evidence of His life, character, teachings, and the powerful works attributed to Him in scripture. While we do not witness His miracles firsthand today, the biblical record of His works, His resurrection, and the ongoing impact of Christianity throughout history serve as powerful testimonies. Just as Jesus challenged His listeners to examine the evidence of His works, we are encouraged to consider the overwhelming case for His divine identity. It calls us to ground our faith not in mere sentiment, but in the truth revealed through His actions and words.