John 8:43 Commentary - Garner-Howes Baptist Commentary

1) "Why do ye not understand my speech?" (dia ti ten lalian ten emen ou ginoskete) "Why do you all not know or grasp my speech, comprehend the meaning?" The question is posed, not for information, but for the purpose of reflective conviction upon them, much as when God questioned Adam, "where art thou, and what hast thou done?" Gen 3:1-24; Joh 7:17; 1Co 2:14.

2) "Even because ye cannot hear my word." (hoti ou dunasthe akouein ton logon ton emon) "Because you are not able to hear my word," Isa 6:9. Their understanding was dulled, addled by pride, self -righteousness, and because they willfully closed their eyes and ears to truth, Eph 4:18; 2Co 4:3-4. There was in these proud Pharisees a moral enmity toward truth, Rom 8:7.