All 25 “Truly, truly” Sayings of Jesus
Quick Summary
The phrase “Truly, truly, I say to you,” or in Greek, amen, amen, (lego soi), appears exclusively in the Gospel of John. Each of these double affirmations from Jesus signals deep, foundational truths. These are not casual comments but spiritual declarations, often introducing core realities about eternal life, judgment, the nature of God, and the mission of Jesus.
Introduction
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus says many remarkable things. But in the Gospel of John, his most profound teachings are often introduced with a unique phrase: “Truly, truly, I say to you.” Unlike the single “Amen” used elsewhere to affirm truth, this double affirmation serves as a verbal highlighter. It signals that what follows is not just important—it is essential.
The use of “truly, truly” (or “verily, verily” in older translations) invites the reader to lean in. These statements are not veiled in parables or softened for crowds. They are direct, bold, and often confrontational. Here are the 25 “Truly, truly” sayings of Jesus in John’s Gospel, along with what each reveals.
Complete List of “Truly, Truly” Sayings of Jesus in the Gospel of John
John 1:51
“Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”
Jesus connects his identity with Jacob’s ladder and divine access.
John 3:3
“Truly, truly, I say to you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.”
Entry into God’s reign requires spiritual rebirth.
John 3:5
“Truly, truly, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.”
Baptismal and spiritual rebirth are essential for entry into new life.
John 3:11
“Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen…”
Jesus speaks from direct heavenly experience.
John 5:19
“Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing…”
Jesus’ actions perfectly mirror the Father’s will.
John 5:24
“Truly, truly, I say to you, anyone who hears my word and believes… has eternal life…”
Belief in Jesus secures life beyond judgment.
John 5:25
“Truly, truly, I say to you, the hour is coming… when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God…”
Jesus has power over life and resurrection.
John 6:26
“Truly, truly, I say to you, you are looking for me not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill…”
Jesus challenges selfish motives for following him.
John 6:32
“Truly, truly, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread… but it is my Father who gives you the true bread…”
Jesus redefines manna and positions himself as the bread of life.
John 6:47
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.”
Faith in Christ grants enduring life.
John 6:53
“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man… you have no life in you.”
A provocative claim about communion and spiritual sustenance.
John 8:34
“Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin.”
Sin is not just action; it enslaves.
John 8:51
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever keeps my word will never see death.”
John 8:58
“Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.”
A clear declaration of Jesus’ divinity.
John 10:1
“Truly, truly, I say to you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate… is a thief and a bandit.”
Jesus sets up the image of himself as the true shepherd.
John 10:7
“Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep.”
Exclusive access to life and safety is found in him.
John 12:24
“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies…”
Death is the path to fruitfulness.
John 13:16
“Truly, truly, I say to you, servants are not greater than their master…”
A lesson in humility and imitation.
John 13:20
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever receives one whom I send receives me…”
Representing Jesus carries sacred weight.
John 13:21
“Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.”
Jesus foretells the betrayal by Judas.
John 14:12
“Truly, truly, I say to you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do…”
Faith enables followers to participate in divine work.
John 16:20
“Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and mourn… but your pain will turn into joy.”
Sorrow is not the final word.
John 16:23
“Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.”
Prayer in Jesus’ name is powerful and heard.
John 21:18
“Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were younger… but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands…”
Jesus predicts Peter’s martyrdom.
Meaning for Today: Truth You Can Trust
Each of these sayings begins the same way, but what follows is never the same. Jesus uses this phrase to signal that we are entering holy ground. Whether he is speaking about his identity, calling, resurrection, or return, he does not leave room for half-truths. He speaks with authority and clarity.
These verses are a foundation for faith. They offer an unshakable core around which Christian belief can gather: that Jesus is who he says he is, that eternal life is real, and that truth is not abstract—it is personal. It is him.
