Homilies on the Gospel of John

“But I receive not testimony from man.”

“Why then have You brought forward that of John?” His testimony was not the “testimony of man,” for, says he, “He that sent me to baptize with water, He said unto me.” So that John's testimony was the testimony of God; for having learned from Him he said what he did. But that none should ask, “Whence is it clear that he learned from God?” and stop at this, He abundantly silences them by still addressing Himself to their thoughts. For neither was it likely that many would know these things; they had hitherto given heed unto John as to one who spoke of himself, and therefore Christ says, “I receive not testimony from man.” And that the Jews might not ask, “And if You were not about to receive the testimony of man, and by it to strengthen Yourself, why have You brought forward this man's testimony?” see how He corrects this contradiction by what He adds. For after saying, “I receive not testimony from man,” He has added,

“But these things I say, that you may be saved.”

What He says is of this kind; “I, being God, needed not the witness of John which is man's witness, yet because ye gave more heed to him, believe him more trustworthy than any, ran to him as to a prophet, (for all the city was poured forth to Jordan,) and have not believed on Me, even when working miracles, therefore I remind you of that witness of his.”