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Book of John - Chapter 8 - Verse 44

8:44
Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

Meaning

This Bible verse from John 8:44 speaks about the nature of evil and the characteristics of the devil. In this verse, Jesus is addressing the religious leaders who were opposing him, telling them that their actions are reflective of their true father, the devil. It emphasizes that those who do evil are following in the footsteps of the devil, who is described as a murderer and a liar from the beginning. The verse points out that the devil has no truth in him and that when he speaks lies, he is simply acting in accordance with his nature. By stating that the devil is the father of lies, Jesus is drawing a clear distinction between evil and truth, and warning against following the path of deception and sin. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of discerning between good and evil, and choosing to follow the path of truth and righteousness.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of the verse comes from the dialogue between Jesus and the Jews, where Jesus is challenging their claim of being children of Abraham by identifying their true spiritual father as the devil. The word "lusts" is significant in this context as it refers to the desires or passions that drive individuals to sin, which are attributed to the devil. The statement that the devil was a murderer from the beginning alludes to the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, where sin entered the world through temptation and deception. It highlights the devil's malicious nature and his role in leading humanity astray from the truth. The concept of truth is crucial in this verse, as it emphasizes the contrast between the lies propagated by the devil and the righteousness and integrity found in God. By stating that the devil is the father of lies, Jesus is exposing the deceptive and destructive nature of sin and the urgent need for humanity to turn towards the truth found in God's word.

American Standard Version

Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and standeth not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father thereof.
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