What is the meaning of John 7:25?

Then

• The word signals a real moment in the unfolding feast of Tabernacles narrative (John 7:2, 14).

• Jesus has already taught publicly and confounded the religious leaders, so this “then” points to a developing tension (John 7:15–18, 30).

• Scripture presents events in a clear historical sequence, assuring us the gospel record is factual, not fictional (Luke 1:3–4).

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some of the people of Jerusalem

• These are locals, not pilgrims from out of town. They know the leaders’ agenda better than the crowd (John 7:20 versus v. 25).

• Their insider perspective highlights the widening gap between Jesus and the religious establishment (John 5:18; Mark 3:6).

• God often uses ordinary observers to expose hidden motives, reminding us that truth cannot stay buried (Psalm 37:32–33).

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began to say

• The verb shows a shift from silent observation to open conversation; whispering becomes public commentary (John 7:12–13).

• Speech reveals the heart (Matthew 12:34). Their words disclose fear, curiosity, and dawning realization.

• God invites honest dialogue about His Son, even when motives are mixed (Isaiah 1:18; Acts 17:11).

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“Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill?”

• The question acknowledges an active plot (John 5:16; 7:1). The leaders’ hostility is no secret.

• Irony drips from their words: the One targeted for death stands teaching openly, untouched, because His hour has not yet come (John 7:30; 8:20).

• The statement contrasts human schemes with divine sovereignty—plans to kill cannot succeed until God permits (Acts 2:23; John 10:17–18).

• It also challenges every listener: if the leaders oppose Him, will we align with their unbelief or with the truth Jesus embodies (Joshua 24:15; John 3:36)?

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summary

John 7:25 captures a pivotal moment when Jerusalem residents voice the tension simmering beneath the feast’s festivities. Their remark underscores three truths: events unfold on God’s timetable, hidden hostility toward Jesus is real, and every observer must decide what to do with the One whom authorities seek to silence.