Search the Scriptures: An Examination of John 5.39—Should it be in the Imperative or Indicative?

This article argues that John 5.39 in the Authorised (King James) Version correctly begins with the imperative ‘Search the scriptures’, rather than the indicative ‘You search the scriptures’ found in modern versions. Through careful analysis of the Greek grammar, context, and doctrinal implications, it contends that the imperative is the correct translation, Christ’s intent, and the Protestant principle of sola scriptura.

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