John 2:24
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
He knew all men - Instead of παντας all men, EGH, and about thirty others, read παντα, every man, or all things; and this I am inclined to believe is the true reading. Jesus knew all things; and why? Because he made all things, Joh 1:3, and because he was the all-wise God, Joh 1:1; and he knew all men, because he alone searches the heart, and tries the reins. He knows who are sincere, and who are hypocritical: he knows those in whom he can confide, and those to whom he can neither trust himself nor his gifts. Reader, he also knows thee: thy cares, fears, perplexities, temptations, afflictions, desires, and hopes; thy helps and hinderances; the progress thou hast made in the Divine life, or thy declension from it. If he know thee to be hypocritical or iniquitous, he looks upon thee with abhorrence: if he know thee to be of a meek and broken spirit, he looks on thee with pity, complacency, and delight. Take courage - thou canst say, Lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I do love thee, and mourn because I love and serve thee so little: then expect him to come in unto thee, and make his abode with thee: while thy eye and heart are simple, he will love thee, and thy whole soul shall be full of light. To him be glory and dominion for ever!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
did not commit--"entrust," or let Himself down familiarly to them, as to His genuine disciples.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And needed not that any should testify of man,.... Of this or the other man, that he was a good or a bad man; he needed no proofs to be made, or testimonies bore, or evidence given of men's characters and actions; he was of quick understanding, and could distinguish at once between a wicked man and a good man; and so had the characteristic which the Jews require of the Messiah; for they rejected Bar Cozba from being the Messiah, and slew him, because he could not smell, referring to Isa 11:3, or discern a bad man from a good man (n); but this Jesus could do, without any external evidence: for he knew what was in man; which none but the spirit of a man can know; his inward thoughts, the secrets of the heart; thus Christ knew the thoughts of the Scribes and Pharisees, Mat 9:4, being a discerner of the thoughts, and intents of the heart, Heb 4:12. This Apollonius Tyaneus, the ape of Christ, ascribed to himself (o); but is what is peculiar to God; and Christ being God, knows all that is in man; that there is no good in him naturally, nothing but what comes from his Father, is imparted by himself, or implanted by his Spirit; he knows the wickedness there is in man, that his heart is deceitful and desperately wicked, and full of all manner of iniquities; he knows in what condition all the and faculties of the souls of men are; what their affections are set upon, on earthly or heavenly things; whether there is any light in their understandings, or not; whether their wills are subdued and resigned to the will of God, or not; whether their minds and consciences are defiled, or their hearts are sprinkled from an evil conscience; in short, whether the internal good work of grace is begun upon their souls, or not; and he knows the secret springs of all actions, good and bad; all which prove his true and proper deity, and show him to be a suitable Saviour of sinners, and qualify him to be the Judge of the whole earth. (n) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 93. 2. (o) Philostrat. Vit. Apollonii, l. 1. c. 13. Next: John Chapter 3
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:24 John uses a play on words here. Because of his signs, many people trusted in Jesus (2:23), but Jesus didn’t trust them. This did not refer to specific people Jesus met in Jerusalem, but reflects his knowledge of all humanity.
John 2:24
Jesus Cleanses the Temple
23While He was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many people saw the signs He was doing and believed in His name.24But Jesus did not entrust Himself to them, for He knew them all.25He did not need any testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Through the Bible) John 1-2
By Chuck Smith2.5K1:21:44JHN 2:24In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing a moment of his birth, emphasizing his physical appearance and feeling like an outcast. He then transitions to the story of a donkey trying to help a bird find shelter from a storm. The donkey tries to communicate with the bird, but realizes that he cannot effectively plead his case before God on behalf of the bird. However, the preacher highlights that Jesus is the mediator between God and man, bridging the gap between the infinite and the finite. The sermon concludes with a reference to the wedding at Cana in Galilee, where Jesus performed his first miracle, emphasizing the importance of Jesus as the intermediary between God and humanity.
The Trinity
By Ernest Barker2.3K50:12TrinityMAT 11:28JHN 2:24JHN 5:16JHN 5:24JHN 6:35JHN 15:16REV 19:13In this sermon, Chapman discusses the claim of Jesus to understand the motives and desires of mankind. He references John 2:24, where it is stated that Jesus knew what was in man. Chapman explains that Jesus had a deep understanding of human nature and could see through people's actions and words. He emphasizes the importance of being subject to authority and paying what is due, as stated in Romans 13. Chapman encourages individual study of the Bible to truly understand the joy of seeing Christ in the written word and looks forward to the day when believers will see Him as He is.
Winning God's Approval - Part 3
By Zac Poonen2.3K51:56ApprovalJHN 2:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of moving from simply believing in Jesus to becoming a person whom Jesus can entrust Himself to. The ultimate goal is to receive Jesus' commendation and approval. The blessing of Abraham is described as being both blessed by God and becoming a blessing to all the families of the earth. The speaker also highlights that Jesus' death on the cross not only removes our sins but also brings the blessing of Abraham upon us. The sermon concludes by introducing a series on characters in the Old Testament who received God's approval through their faith.
Let the House Be Builded - Part 3of3
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K48:25ChurchJHN 2:24JHN 3:3In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Jesus' presence on earth and his subsequent withdrawal. The speaker suggests that God cannot involve himself in man's disorder and therefore must have conditions that are suitable to himself. This may explain why God seems reserved and slow to answer the cries and prayers for a visitation. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having an increase of Christ within oneself and suggests that God may take away busy servants in order to increase their measure of Christ. The sermon also highlights the concept of new birth and the need for God, the Holy Spirit, to come and take up residence within individuals.
Failure of an Empty Life
By Major Ian Thomas1.2K48:21Christian LifeTrue Christian LivingThe Cross and ResurrectionMRK 14:27JHN 2:24Major Ian Thomas discusses the failures of three biblical figures—Peter, Mary, and Thomas—who all attempted to live a Christian life without truly possessing the necessary faith in the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Despite their sincere desires, they each faced despair and failure because they tried to embody a life they did not have. Ultimately, through their failures, they discovered that true Christianity requires the indwelling of Christ, who empowers believers to live out their faith. Thomas emphasizes that it is only through the resurrection life of Jesus that one can truly become a Christian, highlighting the necessity of both the cross and the resurrection in the Christian experience.
K-464 Death and Resurrection of Israel (2 of 2)
By Art Katz92046:56IsraelJHN 2:24In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the challenges and responsibilities of delivering the word of God. He shares a personal experience of preaching at a university during a time of social unrest and feeling the weight of delivering a message from the Lord. The speaker emphasizes the importance of corporate support and submission, but also acknowledges the loneliness and responsibility that comes with bearing the word. He concludes by drawing a parallel between Jesus' death and resurrection and the future restoration of Israel, suggesting that just as Jesus had to go through death and resurrection, so too must Israel in order to fulfill its redemptive purposes.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Letter: 51e 107 W Kelly, -, 1846
By John Nelson Darby0Faith and UnityAuthority of ScriptureJHN 2:24John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of recognizing the distinction between the means of communicating Christ's religion and the rule of faith, arguing that true saving faith comes solely from the direct authority of God's word. He critiques Romanism for relying on church authority rather than the scriptures, asserting that faith must be rooted in God's testimony rather than human interpretation. Darby highlights the inadequacies of the Roman Catholic Church in preserving the authenticity of scripture and maintaining unity, ultimately concluding that only the Spirit of God can produce true unity among believers.
Love the Supreme Test of the Church
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Church's CallingDivine LoveJER 2:2JHN 2:24ACT 9:11CO 8:12CO 4:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:4HEB 12:7REV 1:5REV 2:4T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that love is the supreme test of the Church, drawing from Ephesians 2:4 to illustrate God's great love for humanity. He explores the messages to the seven churches in Revelation, highlighting that the essence of their challenges revolves around love—specifically, the loss of first love, which encompasses suffering, discernment, and steadfastness. Sparks argues that true love is not merely sentimental but requires a deep commitment and discernment, urging the Church to return to this foundational love as it approaches the end times. He concludes that love must be the driving force behind all actions and teachings within the Church, as it is the key to understanding God's purpose.
The First Time Jesus Cleans Out the Temple John 2:13-25
By David Servant0PSA 69:21MAT 21:13JHN 2:19JHN 2:241CO 6:19JAS 2:261PE 1:15David Servant preaches about Jesus' righteous anger in the Temple, emphasizing the importance of honoring God and worshiping Him sincerely. Jesus' actions in the Temple reveal His divinity as the Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and demonstrating His authority over all things as God in human form. Jesus' resurrection after three days further confirms His deity and power. His body, as a temple of God, surpasses the physical Temple in Jerusalem, highlighting the spiritual significance of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit.
Mark 5:1-20. Christ Delivers the Demoniac Who Dwelt Among the Tombs.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MRK 5:1MRK 8:36LUK 8:26JHN 2:24REV 12:12Favell Lee Mortimer delves into the story of the poor demoniac, illustrating the intense malice of devils, the unmatched power of Christ, and the deep-seated wickedness of man. The demons' cruelty towards the man led him to a desolate and tormented existence, reflecting the spiritual state they desire for all humanity. Even the swine were not spared from the demons' malevolence, showcasing their desire for destruction. Despite their malice, the demons recognized Christ's authority and impending judgment. The reaction of the swine owners highlights the prevalent wickedness in humanity, prioritizing material gain over spiritual transformation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
He knew all men - Instead of παντας all men, EGH, and about thirty others, read παντα, every man, or all things; and this I am inclined to believe is the true reading. Jesus knew all things; and why? Because he made all things, Joh 1:3, and because he was the all-wise God, Joh 1:1; and he knew all men, because he alone searches the heart, and tries the reins. He knows who are sincere, and who are hypocritical: he knows those in whom he can confide, and those to whom he can neither trust himself nor his gifts. Reader, he also knows thee: thy cares, fears, perplexities, temptations, afflictions, desires, and hopes; thy helps and hinderances; the progress thou hast made in the Divine life, or thy declension from it. If he know thee to be hypocritical or iniquitous, he looks upon thee with abhorrence: if he know thee to be of a meek and broken spirit, he looks on thee with pity, complacency, and delight. Take courage - thou canst say, Lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I do love thee, and mourn because I love and serve thee so little: then expect him to come in unto thee, and make his abode with thee: while thy eye and heart are simple, he will love thee, and thy whole soul shall be full of light. To him be glory and dominion for ever!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
did not commit--"entrust," or let Himself down familiarly to them, as to His genuine disciples.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And needed not that any should testify of man,.... Of this or the other man, that he was a good or a bad man; he needed no proofs to be made, or testimonies bore, or evidence given of men's characters and actions; he was of quick understanding, and could distinguish at once between a wicked man and a good man; and so had the characteristic which the Jews require of the Messiah; for they rejected Bar Cozba from being the Messiah, and slew him, because he could not smell, referring to Isa 11:3, or discern a bad man from a good man (n); but this Jesus could do, without any external evidence: for he knew what was in man; which none but the spirit of a man can know; his inward thoughts, the secrets of the heart; thus Christ knew the thoughts of the Scribes and Pharisees, Mat 9:4, being a discerner of the thoughts, and intents of the heart, Heb 4:12. This Apollonius Tyaneus, the ape of Christ, ascribed to himself (o); but is what is peculiar to God; and Christ being God, knows all that is in man; that there is no good in him naturally, nothing but what comes from his Father, is imparted by himself, or implanted by his Spirit; he knows the wickedness there is in man, that his heart is deceitful and desperately wicked, and full of all manner of iniquities; he knows in what condition all the and faculties of the souls of men are; what their affections are set upon, on earthly or heavenly things; whether there is any light in their understandings, or not; whether their wills are subdued and resigned to the will of God, or not; whether their minds and consciences are defiled, or their hearts are sprinkled from an evil conscience; in short, whether the internal good work of grace is begun upon their souls, or not; and he knows the secret springs of all actions, good and bad; all which prove his true and proper deity, and show him to be a suitable Saviour of sinners, and qualify him to be the Judge of the whole earth. (n) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 93. 2. (o) Philostrat. Vit. Apollonii, l. 1. c. 13. Next: John Chapter 3
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:24 John uses a play on words here. Because of his signs, many people trusted in Jesus (2:23), but Jesus didn’t trust them. This did not refer to specific people Jesus met in Jerusalem, but reflects his knowledge of all humanity.