A common misinterpretation views this verse as Jesus issuing a blanket condemnation of Jewish people or their Scriptures, fostering anti-Semitic attitudes, whereas it specifically addresses unbelieving religious leaders who knew the Law yet refused its testimony about Him. Others erroneously claim it elevates Moses' writings above Jesus' words or renders the Old Testament obsolete, ignoring Jesus' affirmation of Scripture's enduring authority as preparation for His coming and the necessity of faith in both.
John 5:47
King James Version (1769)
47 But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?
Jesus underscores the inseparable link between belief in the Scriptures—specifically Moses' writings—and faith in His own words, teaching that the Old Testament prophets, particularly Moses, bear witness to Him as the Messiah. If people reject the prophetic testimony embedded in Scripture, they will inevitably dismiss Jesus' direct revelations, highlighting that genuine faith requires accepting the Bible's unified message pointing to Christ for eternal life.