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John 10:21

John 10:21 in Multiple Translations

But others replied, “These are not the words of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”

Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?

Others said, These are not the sayings of one possessed with a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?

Others said, These are not the words of one who has an evil spirit. Is it possible for an evil spirit to make blind people see?

Others said, “These aren't the words of someone who's demon-possessed. Besides, a demon can't open eyes that are blind.”

Other sayd, These are not the wordes of him that hath a deuill: can the deuill open the eyes of the blinde?

others said, 'These sayings are not those of a demoniac; is a demon able blind men's eyes to open?'

Others said, “These are not the sayings of one possessed by a demon. It isn’t possible for a demon to open the eyes of the blind, is it?”

Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?

Others said: These are not the words of one that hath a devil: Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?

But others said, “What he is saying is not something a man whom a demon is controlling would say. ◄No demon could enable a blind man to see like he did!/ How could a demon enable a blind man to see like he did?► [RHQ]”

But some of them said, “No, he hasn’t got a bad spirit. A man with a bad spirit doesn’t tell this sort of message, and a bad spirit can’t make blind people see again.”

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Berean Amplified Bible — John 10:21

BAB
Word Study

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John 10:21 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
GRK αλλοι ελεγον ταυτα τα ρηματα ουκ εστιν δαιμονιζομενου μη δαιμονιον δυναται τυφλων οφθαλμους ανοιγειν
αλλοι allos G243 another Adj-NPM
ελεγον legō G3004 to say Verb-IAI-3P
ταυτα ohutos G3778 this/he/she/it Dem-NPN
τα ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NPN
ρηματα rhēma G4487 declaration Noun-NPN
ουκ ou G3756 no Particle-N
εστιν eimi G1510 to be Verb-PAI-3S
δαιμονιζομενου daimonizomai G1139 be demonised Verb-PNP-GSM
μη G3361 not Particle-N
δαιμονιον daimonion G1140 demon Noun-NSN
δυναται dunamai G1410 be able Verb-PNI-3S
τυφλων tuphlos G5185 blind Adj-GPM
οφθαλμους ophthalmos G3788 eye Noun-APM
ανοιγειν anoigō G455 to open Verb-PAN
Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — John 10:21

αλλοι allos G243 "another" Adj-NPM
In the Bible, this word means another or different, used in many contexts, such as in Matthew 20:3 and 1 Corinthians 3:10. It can also mean the other or others, like in John 19:32 and 1 Corinthians 14:29. This word is used to show a distinction between things.
Definition: ἄλλος, -η, -ο, (cf. Lat. alius, Eng. else), [in LXX for אַחֵר ,אֶחָד, etc. ;] other, another: absol., Mat.20:3, al.; ἄ. δέ, 1Co.3:10 12:8; pl., Mrk.6:15; attached to a noun, Mat.2:12 4:21, al.; with art., ὁ ἄ., the other, Mat.5:39, Jhn.19:32 (Bl., §47, 8); οἱ ἄ., the others, the rest, Jhn.20:25, 1Co.14:29; ἄ. πρὸς ἄλλον = πρὸς ἀλλήλους (BL, §48, 10), Act.2:12; ἄλλ᾽ (i.e. ἄλλο) ἤ (Bl., §77, 13), Luk.12:51; before πλήν, Mrk.12:32; εἰ μή, Jhn.6:22; παρά with accusative, 1Co.3:11. SYN.: ἕτερος, which see ἄ. denotes numerical, ἕ. qualitative difference (Cremer, 89). ἄ. generally "denotes simply distinction of individuals, ἕ. involves the secondary idea of difference in kind" (see Lft., Meyer, Ramsay, on Gal.1:6, 7; Tr., Syn., §xcv; BL, §51, 6; M, Pr., 79f., 246; MM, VGT, s.vv.). As to whether the distinction can be maintained in 1Co.12:8, 10 see ICC, in l., and on Heb.11:35f., see Westc, in l. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 140 NT verses. KJV: more, one (another), (an-, some an-)other(-s, -wise) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:16; Luke 22:59; Hebrews 4:8.
ελεγον legō G3004 "to say" Verb-IAI-3P
This word means to say or speak, and it is used by Jesus and others in the New Testament to share teachings and tell stories. It appears in Matthew 9:34 and John 1:29.
Definition: λέγω, [in LXX very freq., chiefly for אמר; λέγει for נְאֻם, Gen.22:16, al. ;] __1. in Hom., to pick out, gather, reckon, recount. __2. In Hdt. and Att., to say, speak, affirm, declare: absol., Act.13:15, 24:10; before orat. dir., Mat.9:34, Mrk.3:11, Jhn.1:29, al.; before ὅτι recit., Mrk.3:21, Luk.1:24, Jhn.6:14, al.; accusative and inf., Luk.11:18, Jhn.12:29, al.; after another verb of speaking, προσφωνεῖν κ. λέγειν, Mat.11:17, al.; ἀπεκρίθη (ἐλάλησεν) λέγων (καὶ λέγει; Dalman, Words, 24 ff.), Mat.25:9, Mrk.3:33, 7:28, Luk.24:6, 7, al.; of unspoken thought, λ. ἐν ἑαυτῷ, Mat.3:9, Luk.3:8, al.; of writing, 2Co.8:8, Php.4:11, al.; λέγει ἡ γραφή, Rom.4:3, Jas.2:23, al.; with accusative of thing(s), Luk.8:8, 9:33, Jhn.5:34, al.; σὺ λέγεις (a non-committal phrase; Swete, Mk., 359, 369f.), Mat.27:11, Mrk.15:2, Luk.23:3, Jhn.18:37; with dative of person(s), before orat. dir., Mat.8:20, Mrk.2:17, al. mult.; id. before ὅτι, Mat.3:9, al.; with prep., πρός, μετά, περί, etc., Mrk.4:41, Jhn.11:56, Heb.9:5, al.; to mean (cl.), Mrk.14:71, Jhn.6:71, 1Co.10:29, al.; to call, name, Mrk.10:18; pass., Mat.9:9, Mrk.15:7, al (cf. ἀντι-, δια- (-μαι), προ-, συλ-λέγω). SYN.: λαλέω, which refers to the utterance, as λέγω to the meaning of what is said, its correspondence with thought (Tr., Syn., Ixxvi; Thayer, see word λαλέω). (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 1988 NT verses. KJV: ask, bid, boast, call, describe, give out, name, put forth, say(-ing, on), shew, speak, tell, utter See also: 1 Corinthians 1:10; Acts 6:2; Acts 19:3.
ταυτα ohutos G3778 "this/he/she/it" Dem-NPN
This refers to a specific person or thing, like when Jesus says 'this is my body' in Matthew 26:26 and Mark 14:22.
Definition: οὗτος, αὕτη, τοῦτο, genitive, τούτου, ταύτης, τούτου, [in LXX chiefly for זֹאת ,זֶה ;] demonstr. pron. (related to ἐκεῖνος as hic to ille), this; __1. as subst., this one, he; __(a) absol.: Mat.3:17, Mrk.9:7, Luk.7:44, 45, Jhn.1:15, Act.2:15, al.; expressing contempt (cl.), Mat.13:55, 56, Mrk.6:2, 3, Jhn.6:42, al.; εἰς τοῦτο, Mrk.1:38, Rom.14:9; μετὰ τοῦτο (ταῦτα; V. Westc. on Jhn.5:1), Jhn.2:12 11:7, al.; __(b) epanaleptic (referring to what precedes): Mat.5:19, Mrk.3:35, Luk.9:48, Jhn.6:46, Rom.7:10, al.; __(with) proleptic (referring to what follows): before ἵνα (Bl., §69, 6), Luk.1:43, Jhn.3:19 (and freq.) 15:8, Rom.14:9, al.; before ὅτι, Luk.10:11, Jhn.9:3o, Act.24:14, Rom.2:3, al.; ὅπως, Rom.9:17; ἐάν, Jhn.13:35; __(d) special idioms: τοῦτο μὲν . . . τ. δέ (cl), partly . . . partly. Heb.10:33; καὶ τοῦτο (τοῦτον, ταῦτα), and that (him) too, Rom.13:11, 1Co.2:2, Heb.11:12; τοῦτ᾽ ἐστιν, Mat.27:46. __2. As adj., with subst.; __(a) with art. __(α) before the art.: Mat.12:32, Mrk.9:29, Luk.7:44, Jhn.4:15, Rom.11:24, Rev.19:9, al.; __(β) after the noun: Mat.3:9, Mrk.12:16, Luk.11:31, Jhn.4:13, Act.6:13, Rom.15:28, 1Co.1:20, Rev.2:24, al.; __(b) with subst. anarth. (with predicative force; Bl., §49, 4): Luk.1:36 2:2 24:21, Jhn.2:11 4:54 21:14, 2Co.13:1. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 1281 NT verses. KJV: he (it was that), hereof, it, she, such as, the same, these, they, this (man, same, woman), which, who See also: 1 Corinthians 1:12; 1 Peter 2:20; 1 Peter 1:11.
τα ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NPN
The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.
Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.
ρηματα rhēma G4487 "declaration" Noun-NPN
A declaration or utterance is what this word means, like in Matthew 27:14 or 2 Corinthians 12:4. It's about something being said or spoken, like a word or command.
Definition: ῥῆμα, -τος, τό [in LXX chiefly for דָּבָר, also for פֶּה, and Aram. פִּתְגָּם, etc. ;] __1. prop., of that which is said or spoken, __(a) a word: Mat.27:14, 2Co.12:4; pl., τὰ ῥ., of speech, discourse, Luk.7:1, Jhn.8:20, Act.2:14, Rom.10:18, 2Pe.3:2, al.; __(b) opposite to ὄνομα (a single word), a saying, statement, word of prophecy, instruction or command (in cl., phrase): Mat.26:75, Mrk.9:32, Luk.1:38 2:50, Act.11:16, Rom.10:8, Heb.11:3; ῥ. θεοῦ (κυρίου), Luk.3:2, Act.11:16, Eph.6:17, Heb.6:5 11:3, 1Pe.1:25" (LXX) ; τὰ ῥ. τ. θεοῦ, Jhn.3:34 8:47; ῥ. ἀργόν, Mat.12:36;ῥ. ἄρρητα, 2Co.12:4. __2. Like Heb. דָּבָר (but perh. also a Gk. colloquialism, see Kennedy, Sources, 124; Thackeray, Gr., 41), of that which is the subject of speech, a thing, matter (Gen.15:1, Deu.17:8, al.): Luk.1:37 2:15, Act.10:37; pl., Luk.1:65 2:19, 51, Act.5:32 13:42 (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 66 NT verses. KJV: + evil, + nothing, saying, word See also: 1 Peter 1:25; John 14:10; Hebrews 1:3.
ουκ ou G3756 "no" Particle-N
This is a strong 'no', used to deny something completely. It appears in the New Testament, such as in Matthew 13:29 and John 1:21. It is a negative answer to a question.
Definition: οὐ, before a vowel with smooth breathing οὐκ, before one with rough breathing οὐχ (but improperly οὐχ ἰδού, Act.2:7, WH, mg.; cf. WH, Intr., §409; M, Pr., 44, 244), [in LXX for אֵין ,אַיִן ,לֹא ;] neg. particle, not, no, used generally with indic, and for a denial of fact (cf . μή); __1. absol. (accented), οὔ, no: Mat.13:29 Jhn.1:21 21:5; οὒ οὕ, Mat.5:37 Jas.5:12. __2. Most frequently negativing a verb or other word, Mat.1:25 10:26, 38, Mrk.3:25 9:37, Jhn.8:29, Act.7:5, Rom.1:16, Php.3:3, al.; in litotes, οὐκ ὀλίγοι (i.e. very many), Act.17:4, al.; οὐκ ἄσημος, Act.21:39; πᾶς . . . οὐ, with verb, (like Heb. כֹּל . . . לֹא), no, none, Mat.24:22, Mrk.13:20, Luk.1:37, Eph.5:5, al.; in disjunctive statements, οὐκ . . . ἀλλά, Luk.8:52 Jhn.1:33 Rom.8:2o, al.; with 2 of person(s) fut. (like Heb. לֹא, with impf.), as emphatic prohibition, Mat.4:7, Luk.4:12, Rom.7:7, al. __3. With another negative, __(a) strengthening the negation: Mrk.5:37, Jhn.8:15 12:19, Act.8:39, al.; __(b) making an affirmative: Act.4:20, 1Co.12:15. __4. With other particles: οὐ μή (see: μή); οὐ μηκέτι, Mat.21:19; with μή interrog., Rom.10:18, 1Co.9:4, 5 11:22. __5. Interrogative, expecting an affirmative answer (Lat. nonne): Mat.6:26, Mrk.4:21, Luk.11:40, Jhn.4:35, Rom.9:21, al. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 1410 NT verses. KJV: + long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but See also: 1 Corinthians 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:32; 1 Peter 1:8.
εστιν eimi G1510 "to be" Verb-PAI-3S
To be or exist, a basic verb used to describe something or someone, like God saying 'I am' in John 8:58.
Definition: εἰμί, with various uses and significations, like the English verb to be. __I. As substantive verb. __1. Of persons and things, to be, exist: Act.17:28, Jhn.1:1, 8:58, 17:5, al; ὁ ὢν καὶ ὁ ἦν (for past ptcp.), Rev.1:4, 8, 4:8, 11:17, 16:5 (see Swete, Ap., 5; M, Pr., 228); τὰ (μὴ) ὄντα, Rom.4:17, 1Co.1:28. __2. Of times, events, etc., to be, happen, take place: Mat.24:3, Mrk.14:2, 15:42, Luk.21:23, Jhn.4:6, 23, 5:10, al. __3. to be present, be in a place, have come: Mat.2:13, 15, Mrk.1:45, 5:21, 15:40, Luk.1:80, 5:29, Jhn.7:30, al.; before εἰς, Mrk.2:1; before ἐκ, (ἐξ), Mat.1:20, 21:25, Mrk.11:30, Jhn.3:31, al. __4. Impers., ἔστι, ἦν, etc.; __(a) there is (Fr. il y a), was, etc.: Mat.16:28, Luk.16:19, Jhn.3:1, 5:2, Rom.3:10, al.; with dative (of the possessor; Bl., §37, 3), Mat.16:22, Luk.1:7, Jhn.18.10, Rom.9:2, al.; ἔστιν ὅς, ὅστις (chiefly in pl), Mat.16:28, 19:2, Mrk.9:1, al.; __(b) with inf., = ἔξεστιν (which see), it is possible: Heb.9:5, 1Co.11:20, RV (but see ICC, in l.). __II. As copula uniting subject and predicate. __1. Expressing simply identity or equivalence: Mat.5:13, 14:15, Luk.1:18, 19, Jhn.1:1, 4:19, Rev.3:9, al. mult. __2. Explicative, as in parable, figure, type, etc.: Mat.13:19, 1Co.9:2, 10:4, 11:25, Gal.4:24, Rev.17:15, al.; ταῦτ᾽ ἔστιν, Mat.27:46, Mrk.7:2, Rom.7:18 al.; ὅ ἐστιν, Mrk.3:17, Col.1:24, Heb.7:2, al.; akin to this is the sacramental usage: Mat.26:26-28, Mrk.14:22, 24, Luk.22:19, 1Co.11:24 (see ICC on Mk, I Co, ll. with; DB, iii, 148 f.). __3. C. genitive: qual., etc., Mrk.5:42, Luk.3:23, 1Co.14:33, Heb.12:11, al.; part., 1Ti.1:20, 2Ti.1:15; poss., Mat.5:3, 10, Mrk.12:7, Luk.4:7; of service or partisanship, Rom.8:9, 1Co.1:12, 2Co.10:7, 2Ti.2:19. __4. C. dative (BL, §37, 3): Act.1:8, 9:15, Rom.4:12, 1Co.1:18, 2:14, Rev.21:7, al. __5. C. ptcp., as a periphrasis for the simple verb (Bl., §62, 1, 2; M, Pr., 225 ff.); __(a) with ptcp. pf. (cl.): Mat.10:30, Luk.9:32, Jhn.3:24, Act.21:35, 1Co.15:19, al; __(b) with ptcp. pr. (esp. in impf., as in Heb. and Aram.; Dalman, Words, 35 f.), Mat.7:29, Mrk.1:22, Luk.4:31, 14:1, Act.1:10, al. mult., id. for imper. (M, Pr., 180f., 182f.), with ellipsis of εἰμί, Rom.12:9, 10, Heb.13:5, al.; __(with) with ptcp. aor. (cl), Luk.23:9. __6. Seq. εἰς (cf. Heb. הָיָה לְ), a vernac. usage (M, Pr., 71): Mat.19:5, Mrk.10:8, Heb.8:10, al. __7. C. adv.: Mat.19:20, Mrk.4:26, Luk.18:11, al. __8. Ellipses; __(a) of the copula (Bl., §30, 3): Mat.8:29, 24:32, Jhn.21:22, 23, Heb.6:4, al.; __(b) of the predicate: ἐγώ εἰμί, Mat.14:27, Mrk.6:50, al.; absol. (cf. Deu.32:39; אֲנִי הוּא), Mrk.13:6, Jhn.4:26, al. (cf. ἄπ-, ἔν-, πάρ-, συμ-πάρ-, σύν-ειμι). (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 2123 NT verses. KJV: am, have been, X it is I, was See also: 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 13:2; 1 Peter 1:6.
δαιμονιζομενου daimonizomai G1139 "be demonised" Verb-PNP-GSM
To be demonised means to be under the power of an evil spirit, as seen in Matthew 4:24 and Mark 1:32. It involves being possessed or controlled by a demon. This concept is often described using the participle form of the word.
Definition: δαιμονίζομαι (in cl. also δαιμονάω; δαίμων), [in Aq.: Ps 90(91):6 * ;] to be under the power of a δαίμων (δαιμόνιον, which see), to be possessed: Mat.15:22; elsewhere always ptcp., -ιζόμενος, -ισθείς: Mat.4:24; 8:16, 28, 33 9:32 12:22, Mrk.1:32 15 16 18, Luk.8:36, Jhn.10:21 (Cremer, 171).† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 13 NT verses. KJV: have a (be vexed with, be possessed with) devil(-s) See also: John 10:21; Matthew 4:24; Matthew 15:22.
μη G3361 "not" Particle-N
Not is a word used to show that something is not true or is not happening, like in phrases that say 'lest' or 'God forbid', as seen in various parts of the New Testament.
Definition: μή, subjective negative particle, used where the negation depends on a condition or hypothesis, expressed or understood, as distinct from οὐ, which denies absolutely. μή is used where one thinks a thing is not, as distinct from an absolute negation. As a general rule, οὐ negatives the indic, μή the other moods, incl, ptcp. [In LXX for אֵין ,אַיִן ,אַל ] __I. As a neg. adv., not; __1. with ref. to thought or opinion: Jhn.3:18, Tit.1:11, 2Pe.1:9. __2. In delib. questions, with subjc. (M, Pr., 185): Mrk.12:14, Rom.3:8. __3. In conditional and final sentences, after εἰ, ἐάν, ἄν, ἵνα, ὅπως: Mat.10:14, Mrk.6:11 12:19, Luk.9:5, Jhn.6:50, Rom.11:25, al. __4. C. inf. (see M, Pr., 234f., 239, 255), __(a) after verbs of saying, etc.: Mat.2:12 5:34, Mrk.12:18, Act.15:38, Rom.2:21, al.; __(b) with artic. inf.: after a prep., Mat.13:5, Mrk.4:5, Act.7:19, 1Co.10:6, al.; without a prep., Rom.14:13, 2Co.2:1, 13 1Th 4:6; __(with) in sentences expressing consequence, after ὥστε: Mat.8:28, Mrk.3:20, 1Co.1:7, 2Co.3:7, al. __5. C. ptcp. (see M, Pr., 231f., 239), in hypothetical references to persons of a certain character or description: Mat.10:28 12:30, Luk.6:49, Jhn.3:18, Rom.4:5, 1Co.7:38, 1Jn.3:10, al.; where the person or thing being definite, the denial is a matter of opinion: Jhn.6:64, 1Co.1:28 4:7, 18, 2Co.5:21, al.; where the ptcp. has a concessive, causal or conditional force, if, though, because not: Mat.18:25, Luk.2:45, Jhn.7:49, Act.9:26, Rom.2:14 5:13, 2Co.3:14, Gal.6:9, Ju 5; where the ptcp. has a descriptive force (being such as), not: Act.9:9, Rom.1:28, 1Co.10:33, Gal.4:8, Heb.12:27, al. __6. μή prohibitive, in indep. sentences, __(a) with subjc. praes., 1 of person(s) pl.: Gal.5:26 6:9, 1Th.5:6, 1Jn.3:18; __(b) with imperat. praes., usually where one is bidden to desist from what has already begun (cf. M, Pr., 122ff.): Mat.7:1, Mrk.5:36, Luk.6:30, Jhn.2:16 5:45, Act.10:15, Rom.11:18, Jas.2:1, Rev.5:5, al.; __(with) forbidding that which is still future: with imperat. aor., 3 of person(s), Mat.24:18, Mrk.13:15, Luk.17:31, al.; with subjc. aor., 2 of person(s), Mat.3:9 10:26, Mrk.5:7, Luk.6:29, Jhn.3:7, Rom.10:6, al.; __(d) with optative, in wishes: 2Ti.4:16 (LXX); μὴ γένοιτο (see M, Pr., 194; Bl., §66, 1), Luk.20:16, Rom.3:3, al.; μή τις, Mrk.13:5, al. __II. As a conj., __1. after verbs of fearing, caution, etc., that, lest, perhaps (M, Pr., 192f.): with subjc. praes., Heb.12:15; with subjc. aor., Mat.24:4, Mrk.13:5, Luk.21:8, Act.13:40, Gal.5:15, al.; ὅρα μή (see M, Pr., 124, 178), elliptically, Rev.19:10 22:9; with indic, fut. (M, Pr., l.with), Col.2:8. __2. in order that not: with subjc. aor., Mrk.13:36, 2Co.8:20 12:6. __III. Interrogative, in hesitant questions (M, Pr., 170), or where a negative answer is expected: Mat.7:9, 10, Mrk.2:19, Jhn.3:4, Rom.3:3 10:18, 19, 1Co.1:13, al.; μή τις, Luk.22:35, al.; before οὐ (Rom.10:17, al. in Pl.), expecting an affirm, ans.; οὐ μή, Luk.18:7, Jhn.18:11. __IV. οὐ μή as emphatic negation (cf. M, Pr., 188, 190ff.; Bl. §64, 5), not at all, by no means: with indic, fut., Mat.16:22, Jhn.6:35, Heb.10:17, al.; with subjc. aor., Mat.24:2, Mrk.13:2, Luk.6:37, Jhn.13:8, 1Co.8:13, al. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 910 NT verses. KJV: any but (that), X forbear, + God forbid, + lack, lest, neither, never, no (X wise in), none, nor, (can-)not, nothing, that not, un(-taken), without See also: 1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 Peter 2:16; 1 Peter 1:8.
δαιμονιον daimonion G1140 "demon" Noun-NSN
A demon is an evil spirit or unclean being, as mentioned in Acts 17:18. It can also refer to a false god or deity, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:17. The term is used to describe supernatural beings that are not of God.
Definition: δαιμόνιον, -ου, τό (neut. of δαιμόνιος, -α, -ον, divine), [in LXX (so also in π; see MM, Exp., x) for שֵׁד, אֱלִיל, (frequently in To) ;] __1. as in cl.; __(a) the Divine power, Deity (Hdt., Plat., al.); __(b) an inferior divinity, deity or demon (as in magical π, Deiss., BS, 281; MM, Exp., x): ξένα δ., Act.17:18. __2. (a) in OT, heathen deities, false gods (e.g. Deu.32:17, Psa.95 (96):5); __(b) in NT, evil spirits, demons: θύουσιν δαιμονίοις, 1Co.10:20; διδασκαλίαι δαιμονίων, 1Ti.4:1; προσκυνεῖν τὰ δ., Rev.9:20; ἄρχων τῶν δ., Mat.9:34; especially (syn. with πνεῦμα ἀκάθαρτον) as operating upon and "possessing" (of. δαιμονίζομαι) men: Mat.11:18, and al.; εἰσέρχεσθαι δ. εἰς. . ., Luk.8:30; δ. ἔχειν, Luk.4:33; δ. ἐκβάλλειν, Mat.7:22 In the phrase πνεῦμα δαιμονίου ἀκαθάρτου, Luk.4:33, the wider cl. usage (1. b) is recognised, ἀκ. being elsewhere in NT, the epithet of πν., and δ. = πν. ἀκ. (see ICC, in l; Cremer, 168) (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 53 NT verses. KJV: devil, god See also: 1 Corinthians 10:20; Luke 11:15; James 2:19.
δυναται dunamai G1410 "be able" Verb-PNI-3S
To be able or have power, as in Matthew 6:24 and Mark 2:7, meaning to have the capability or strength to do something.
Definition: δύναμαι, depon., [in LXX chiefly for יָכֹל ;] to be able, have power, whether by personal ability, permission, or opportunity: with inf. (M, Pr., 205; WM, §44, 3) pres., Mat.6:24, Mrk.2:7, Jhn.3:2, 1Co.10:21, al.; with inf. aor., Mat.3:9, Mrk.1:45, Jhn.3:3, 4 Rom.8:39, al.; with accusative, to be able to do something: Mrk.9:22, Luk.12:26; 2Co.13:8; absol., to be able, capable, powerful: 1Co.3:2 10:13. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 199 NT verses. KJV: be able, can (do, + -not), could, may, might, be possible, be of power See also: 1 Corinthians 2:14; John 15:4; Hebrews 2:18.
τυφλων tuphlos G5185 "blind" Adj-GPM
In the Bible, this word means blind, either physically or spiritually, as seen in Matthew 9:27 and John 9:39-41. It describes a lack of sight or understanding. Jesus often healed the blind in his ministry.
Definition: τυφλός, -ή, -όν [in LXX for עִוֵּר ;] blind: as subst., ὁ τ., Mat.9:27, Mrk.8:22, Luk.4:18" (LXX), Jhn.5:3, al. Metaphorical: Mat.15:14 23:16-26, Jhn.9:39-41, Rom.2:19, 2Pe.1:9, Rev.3:17. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 48 NT verses. KJV: blind See also: 2 Peter 1:9; Luke 14:13; Revelation 3:17.
οφθαλμους ophthalmos G3788 "eye" Noun-APM
The Greek word for eye, it can also mean vision or sight, as in Matthew 5:38 and Luke 6:41. Figuratively, it can represent envy or a jealous glance, as seen in Galatians 4:15.
Definition: ὀφθαλμός, -οῦ, ὁ, [in LXX chiefly for עַיִן ;] the eye (as in cl., chiefly pl.): Mat.5:38, Mrk.9:47, Luk.6:41, Jhn.9:6, al.; τοὺς ὀ. ἐξορύθσσειν (figuratively), Gal.4:15; ἐπᾶραι, Luk.6:20, Jhn.6:5; ἀνοῖξα, Act.9:40; id., of restoring sight, Mat.20:33, Jhn.9:10, al.; ἐν ῥιπῇ ὀφθαλμοῦ, 1Co.15:52; by anthropom., of God, Heb.4:13, 1Pe.3:12; pleonastically (cf. Thackeray, Gr., 42f.), εἶδον οἱ ὀ. μοθ, Luk.2:30 (similarly, ib. 4:20 10:23, Jhn.12:40, 1Co.2:9, 1Jn.1:1, Rev.1:7). Metaphorical (as otherwise in cl.; see LS, see word); __(a) of ethical qualities: ὀ. πονηρός (meton., for envy; cf. Heb. עַיִן רַע, Pro.28:22; cf. Sir.14:10 34:13), Mat.6:22, 23 Mrk.7:22, Luk.11:34; ἁπλοῦς, Mat.6:22, Luk.11:34; ἐπιθυμία (which see) ὀφθαλμῶν (cf. Ecc.4:8, Sir.14:9), 1Jn.2:16; ὀ. μεστοὶ μοιχαλἰδος, 2Pe.2:14; __(b) of mental vision: Mat.13:15, Mrk.8:18, Luk.19:42, Jhn.12:40, Rom.11:8, Gal.3:1, Eph.1:18, al.; ἐν ὀφθαλμοῖς before genitive (on the absence of the art., seeBl, §46, 9.II; M, Pr., 81), Mat.21:42, Mrk.12:11. (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 86 NT verses. KJV: eye, sight See also: 1 Corinthians 2:9; Luke 11:34; 1 Peter 3:12.
ανοιγειν anoigō G455 "to open" Verb-PAN
To open something means to make it accessible or available, like opening a door or a gate. In the Bible, this word is used literally and figuratively, such as in Acts 5:19 and Revelation 3:20.
Definition: ἀν-οίγω (ἀνά, οἴγω = οἴγνυμι) [in LXX chiefly for פָּתַח ;] to open; __1. trans., with accusative; a door or gate, Act.5:19 12:14, Rev.4:1; pass., Act.12:10 16:26-27; metaphorically of opportunity or welcome, Act.14:27, Col.4:3, Rev.3:20; pass., 1Co.16:9, 2Co.2:12, Rev.3:8; absol. (sc. θύραν), Act.5:23 12:16; with dative of person(s), Luk.12:36, Jhn.10:3; metaphorically, Mat.7:7-8 25:11, Luk.11:9-10 13:25, Rev.3:7; θησαυρούς (Sir.43:14), Mat.2:11; τ. μνημεῖα, Mat.27:52; τάφος, Rom.3:13; τ. φρέαρ, Rev.9:2; of heaven, Mat.3:16, Luk.3:21, Act.10:11, Rev.11:19 15:5 19:11; σφραγῖδα, Rev.5:9 6:1 ff. Rev.8:1; βιβλίον, βιβλαρίδιον, Luk.4:17, Rev.5:2-5 10:2, 8 20:12; τ. στόμα, Mat.17:27; id. Hebraistically (Num.22:28, Job.3:1, Isa.50:5, al.), of beginning to speak, Mat.5:2, Act.8:32, 35 10:34 18:14; before εἰς βλαιφημίας, Rev.13:6; ἐν παραβολαῖς (Psa.78:2), Mat.13:35; of recovering speech, Luk.1:64; of the earth opening, Rev.12:16; τ. ὀφθαλμoύς, Act.9:8, 40; id. with genitive of person(s), of restoring sight, Mat.9:30 20:33, Jhn.9:1ff; 10.21, 11:37ff ; metaphorically, Act.26:18; ἀκοάς, with genitive of person(s), of restoring hearing, Mrk.7:35. __2. Intrans. in 2 pf., ἀνέῳγα (M, Pr., 154); heaven, Jhn.1:51; τ. στόμα, before πρός, of speaking freely, 2Co.6:11 (cf. δι-ανοίγω and see MM, VGT, 45).† (AS)
Usage: Occurs in 75 NT verses. KJV: open See also: 1 Corinthians 16:9; Luke 13:25; Revelation 3:7.

Study Notes — John 10:21

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Exodus 4:11 And the LORD said to him, “Who gave man his mouth? Or who makes the mute or the deaf, the sighted or the blind? Is it not I, the LORD?
2 Isaiah 35:5–6 Then the eyes of the blind will be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then the lame will leap like a deer and the mute tongue will shout for joy. For waters will gush forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert.
3 Psalms 94:9 He who affixed the ear, can He not hear? He who formed the eye, can He not see?
4 Matthew 11:5 The blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.
5 Proverbs 20:12 Ears that hear and eyes that see— the LORD has made them both.
6 Exodus 8:19 “This is the finger of God,” the magicians said to Pharaoh. But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said.
7 John 9:32–33 Never before has anyone heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, He could do no such thing.”
8 Psalms 146:8 the LORD opens the eyes of the blind, the LORD lifts those who are weighed down, the LORD loves the righteous.
9 Matthew 4:24 News about Him spread all over Syria, and people brought to Him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering acute pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed—and He healed them.
10 John 9:6 When Jesus had said this, He spit on the ground, made some mud, and applied it to the man’s eyes.

John 10:21 Summary

[This verse, John 10:21, shows that some people were defending Jesus against the accusation that He was possessed by a demon, because they recognized that His words and actions were not those of an evil spirit, but rather of someone who cared deeply for others, as seen in His healing of the blind man, which demonstrated His divine power and authority (John 9:1-41). The crowd's defense of Jesus highlights the importance of discernment and understanding the true nature of someone's message, as Jesus taught in Matthew 7:15-20, and reminds us that we should trust in God's sovereignty and provision, especially in times of adversity (Psalm 23:4). As we reflect on this verse, we can learn to stand up for what is right and true, just like the crowd did, and to trust in God's goodness and love, even when faced with opposition or criticism, and to demonstrate that love and compassion to those around us.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the crowd's division in John 10:19 and how does it relate to Jesus' message?

The division among the Jews in John 10:19 highlights the strong reactions Jesus' message evoked, with some believing Him to be demon-possessed and others recognizing the truth in His words, as seen in John 10:21, where they defend Him, referencing His miracle of giving sight to the blind, as recorded in John 9:1-41.

How can we discern whether someone is speaking from a demonic influence or from God?

We can discern by examining the fruit of their words and actions, as Jesus taught in Matthew 7:15-20, and by considering whether their message aligns with Scripture, as the crowd does in John 10:21, noting that a demon cannot open the eyes of the blind, which Jesus had done, demonstrating His divine power and authority.

What does this verse reveal about the character of Jesus and the nature of His ministry?

John 10:21 reveals that Jesus' words and actions were marked by wisdom, compassion, and divine power, as evidenced by His healing of the blind man, which contradicts the accusation of being demon-possessed, and instead, points to His identity as the Son of God, as stated in John 10:36.

How should we respond when we encounter opposition or criticism, as Jesus did in John 10:20?

We should respond with humility, prayer, and a commitment to continue sharing the truth of the Gospel, as Jesus did, trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, as seen in Psalm 23:4 and Isaiah 54:17, which remind us that God is our refuge and defender in times of adversity.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some ways I can apply the principle of discernment from John 10:21 to my everyday life, especially when evaluating the words and actions of others?
  2. How can I, like the crowd in John 10:21, stand up for the truth and defend the character of Jesus in the face of opposition or criticism?
  3. In what ways can I demonstrate the love and compassion of Christ to those around me, just as Jesus showed compassion to the blind man in John 9:1-41?
  4. What are some areas in my life where I need to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, just as Jesus did in the face of opposition, and how can I cultivate that trust?

Gill's Exposition on John 10:21

Others said, these are not the words of him that hath a devil,.... No madman or demoniac, one possessed of a devil, and under the influence of Satan, would ever talk in so divine a manner, and speak

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on John 10:21

Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind? Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?

Matthew Poole's Commentary on John 10:21

But others, that were less passionate and brutish in their expressions, and more thinking and considerate in passing their judgments, said, These are not the words (so we translate it; the word in the Greek is rhmata, which signifies things, and matters, as well as words; and by what follows, one would think that were the more proper translation of it here) of him that hath a devil. They instance in no words, but in a matter of fact; asking if a devil could open the eyes of the blind? That is, of one that was born blind; for they certainly speak with reference to that miracle which he had so lately wrought upon such a person.

Trapp's Commentary on John 10:21

21 Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind? Ver. 21. These are not the words, &c.] Wisdom is ever justified of her children. They fitly argue from his oracles and miracles, both which this evangelist doth more largely relate, purposely to prove our Saviour’ s Divinity, and is therefore styled "John the Divine."

Ellicott's Commentary on John 10:21

(21) Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil.—We trace here again the presence of the better party among the Sanhedrin, which we found before (John 9:16). “His words,” they would say, “are words of calm teaching. The possession by a demon disorders, frenzies, makes the slave of madness. It is inconsistent with words like these.” Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?—“Surely a devil cannot open the eyes of the blind? “is the form their question took. They go back from the teaching to the great sign which gave rise to it, and they find that work and word are alike opposed to the thought of being the result of a demon’s presence. Such a miracle had never before been known. A demon does not give the power to do a prophet’s work. (Comp. Notes on John 9:16 and Matthew 12:24.)

Adam Clarke's Commentary on John 10:21

Verse 21. These are not the words of him that hath a devil.] If he were deranged by an unclean spirit, his words would bear a similitude to the spirit that produced them; but these are words of deep sense, soberness, and piety: besides, could a demoniac open the eyes of blind men? "This is not the work of a demon. Now we have seen that this man has restored a man who was born blind. Therefore it is demonstrably evident that he is neither a madman nor a demoniac. Behold the usage which the blessed Lord received from his creatures! And behold with what meekness and gentleness he conducts himself!-not a word of impatience proceeds from his lips; nor a look of contempt or indignation is seen in his face. And what was he doing to merit all this? Why, he was instructing the ignorant, and telling the wretched that he was just going to die to save their souls! Amazing love of God, and ingratitude and obduracy of men! Let not the disciple suppose that, in this respect, he shall be above his master. When a minister of Christ has done his utmost to do good to his fellow creatures, let him not be surprised if he meet with nothing from many but reproaches and persecutions for his pains. The grand point is to take Jesus for an example of suffering, and to be armed with the same mind. It appears that the words spoken by the friendly Jews prevailed; and that the others were obliged to abandon the field.

Cambridge Bible on John 10:21

21. of him that hath a devil] Better, of one possessed with a demon: the expression differs from that in John 10:20.Can a devil] Or, Surely a demon cannot. See on John 9:40. It was too great and too beneficent a miracle for a demon. But here they stop short: they state what He cannot be; they do not see, or will not admit, what He must be.

Barnes' Notes on John 10:21

Not the words ... - His words are sober, grave, pious, full of wisdom. The preaching of Jesus always produced effect. It made bitter enemies or decided friends. So will all faithful preaching.

Whedon's Commentary on John 10:21

21. Words… open—In the temper of their language we see the condition of their hearts. The impenitent reason not, but launch a fierce fling at Jesus.

Sermons on John 10:21

SermonDescription
Derek Melton Know, Receive, and Believe - Part 2 Receiving by Derek Melton In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of truly receiving Jesus Christ and understanding what it means to do so. He challenges the notion that simply saying we have
Keith Malcomson Can Christians Be Indwelt by Demons? by Keith Malcomson Keith Malcomson preaches on the importance of being delivered from the power of darkness before being translated into the kingdom of Christ, emphasizing the need for a complete tra
Mrs. C.T. Studd A Challenge to Every Christian by Mrs. C.T. Studd Mrs. C.T. Studd's sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's omnipotence and focusing on the eternal gains rather than temporary losses. She encourages believers to prio
John Newton The Gift of Preaching--Advice to a Young Preacher by John Newton John Newton advises a preacher on the importance of gradually transitioning from reading sermons to speaking from the heart, relying wholly on the Lord for guidance and inspiration
David Servant Day 206, John 9 by David Servant David Servant delves into the intriguing question of whether God preordained the man to be born blind so Jesus could heal him, exploring different interpretations of John 9:3-4. He
John Piper Who Made Man's Mouth? by John Piper John Piper preaches on the importance of trusting God to use our mouths for His glory and the deliverance of His people. Using Moses' reluctance to speak as an example, Piper empha
Carter Conlon Returning to God in Enemy Territory by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the preacher invites the congregation to come forward and receive freedom and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that anyone who wants to be free from

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