What does Jesus mean by "I know where I came from"? Setting the Scene • John 8 finds Jesus teaching in the temple during the Feast of Tabernacles. • Religious leaders challenge His right to testify about Himself. • In verse 14 He answers, “I know where I came from and where I am going.” (John 8:14) Why Jesus’ Origin Matters • Jewish law required two witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). • The leaders assume He has only His own word. • Jesus insists His self-testimony is valid precisely because of His unique origin. What “I Know Where I Came From” Means 1. From the Father – “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me.” (John 6:38) – His coming is a deliberate mission commissioned by the Father. – Therefore His words carry divine weight. 2. From Heaven – “No one has ascended into heaven except the One who descended from heaven—the Son of Man.” (John 3:13) – He is not merely Galilean; He is heavenly in origin, asserting deity. 3. From Eternity – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1) – Pre-existence sets Him apart from every prophet; He precedes creation itself. 4. From the Glory He Shared – “Jesus knew that the Father had given Him authority over all things, and that He had come from God and was returning to God.” (John 13:3) – His awareness is continual, guiding every teaching, miracle, and step toward the cross. Implications of Knowing His Origin • Valid Testimony: Being from the Father gives His claims inherent authority. • Clear Mission: Because He knows where He came from, He also knows where He is going—to the cross, the resurrection, and back to the Father. • Unshakeable Identity: Earthly rejection cannot eclipse His heavenly certainty. Contrast With His Opponents • “You do not know where I come from or where I am going.” (John 8:14b) • Their ignorance stems from spiritual blindness, not lack of information. • Without acknowledging His origin, they cannot grasp His message or destination. Encouragement for Believers • Trust His Word: The One who speaks is the eternal Word made flesh. • Rest in His Authority: Every promise He gives is backed by the throne of heaven. • Share His Certainty: Just as Jesus knew His origin and destiny, believers can stand secure in their new birth from above (John 3:3; 1 Peter 1:3). |
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