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Book of John - Chapter 8 - Verse 17

8:17
It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true.

Meaning

The verse "It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true." highlights the importance of corroborating evidence in legal and biblical contexts. In ancient times, the testimony of two or more witnesses was required to establish the truth of a matter and ensure justice was served. This principle is rooted in the Old Testament law, where multiple witnesses were needed to convict someone of a crime or wrongdoing. The idea of two witnesses providing reliable testimony is also seen in the New Testament, where Jesus himself references this principle. By requiring multiple witnesses, the legal system aimed to prevent false accusations and ensure fair judgments. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking multiple sources of evidence and testimony in order to discern the truth in any situation.

Theological Overview

When Jesus mentioned that "the testimony of two men is true," He was referring to a principle outlined in Jewish law. This principle originates from the Old Testament, specifically in Deuteronomy 19:15, which states, "One witness shall not rise against a man concerning any iniquity or any sin that he commits; by the mouth of two or three witnesses the matter shall be established." This concept of requiring multiple witnesses to establish truth was crucial in Jewish legal proceedings and served as a means of ensuring fair judgment and credibility. In the context of this verse, Jesus was using this principle to emphasize the validity and reliability of His own testimony. By appealing to a well-known legal standard, Jesus underscored the certainty of His words and the divine authority behind them. This theological interpretation highlights the consistency and continuity between Jesus' teachings and the principles found in the Old Testament, illustrating His fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets.

American Standard Version

Yea and in your law it is written, that the witness of two men is true.
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