17:23a

This verse begins with a common conjunction that versions such as the Revised Standard Version translate as “And.” Some other English versions have “Then,” and many do not have a conjunction. Begin the verse in a natural way in your language.

People will tell you: The Greek phrase that the Berean Standard Bible translates as People will tell you is literally “They-will-say to you.” “They” refers to people in general. For example:

People will say to you (New Century Version)

‘Look, there He is!’ or ‘Look, here He is!’: The Greek clause that the Berean Standard Bible translates as ‘Look, there He is!’ or ‘Look, here He is!’ is literally “Look, there! (or) Look, here!” This clause is very similar to the clause “‘Look, here it is,’ or ‘There it is’” in 17:21a. Notice that 17:21a and 17:23a use different orders for “Here…” and “There…” You may use a natural order in your language for both verses.

The Berean Standard Bible has supplied the pronoun He to refer to the Son of Man (Jesus). People will say that the Son of Man is there or here. Here are some ways you can translate this:

• Translate it as direct speech. For example:

People will tell you, “Look, there is the Son of Man” or “Here he is” (New Living Translation (2004))

• Translate it as indirect speech. For example:

People will say that I am over there, or that I am here.

17:23b

Do not go out or chase after them: The Greek expression that the Berean Standard Bible translates as Do not go out or chase after them is more literally “do not go, do not pursue.” For example:

Do not go, do not follow them. (Revised Standard Version)

It indicates here that the disciples should not follow anyone who claims that the Son of Man has returned and claims to know where he is. Other ways to translate this are:

…don’t go looking for him. (Contemporary English Version)
-or-
Stay where you are; don’t go away and search. (New Century Version)

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