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John 9:33

New Testament Gospel ASV (1901)

What does John 9:33 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.
John 9:33 — American Standard Version

Context — John 9

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
30The man answered and said unto them, Why, herein is the marvel, that ye know not whence he is, and [yet] he opened mine eyes.
31We know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and do his will, him he heareth.
32Since the world began it was never heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind.
33If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.
34They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
35Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and finding him, he said, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?
36He answered and said, And who is he, Lord, that I may believe on him?
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What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“If this man were not of God, etc.] If he had not his mission, commission, and credentials from God; if he had not been sent by him, and had not authority from him, and was not assisted by him, as man, or God was not with him, he could do nothing; or “not do these things”, as the Syriac version reads; that is, such miraculous works; or, as the Persic version, “he could not do this miracle”: open the eyes of a man born blind. His doing this is a full proof that he is of God, and comes from him.”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Could do nothing - Could do no such work as this. This reasoning was conclusive. The fact that Jesus could perform miracles like this was full proof that he was commissioned by God - proof that never has been and never can be refuted. One such miracle proves that he was from God. But Jesus gave many similar proofs, and thus put his divine mission beyond the possibility of doubt. return to 'Top of Page'”
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Wesley's Explanatory Notes
John Wesley (1703–1791) · Explanatory Notes upon the New Testament and Old Testament notes · 18th-century historical commentary
“He could do nothing - Of this kind; nothing miraculous. John 9:34”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“were: Joh 9:16, Joh 3:2; Act 5:38, Act 5:39 John 9:34”
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Related study paths

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Sources and verification