Two different Greek verbs are translated known and know in this verse, though they are used synonymously. Compare, for example, 7.28-29 (you do not know him, but I know him), which uses the second (oida) of these verbs twice, with 10.15 (The Father knows me and I know the Father), which uses the first (ginōskō) of these verbs twice. Both verbs also occur here in the perfect tense, but the verb oida, though perfect in form, has a present meaning. This explains the basis for Good News Translation: have … known and know.

But I do know him, and I obey his word indicates that, according to the theology of John’s Gospel, obedience is an essential part in “knowing God.” In fact, this teaching is a basic affirmation of the Old and New Testaments alike. To know God means that one follows him in faithful obedience. In 15.10 and 17.6 obedience is again stressed as an important element in this relation.

As the result of this distinctive meaning of the verb know in biblical contexts, it is important to avoid a receptor language term which will merely suggest “knowledge about.” The emphasis is upon “personal acquaintance with” or direct involvement in an interpersonal relation. This type of context requires a term for “know” which will suggest the most intimate interpersonal acquaintance and involvement.

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on the Gospel of John. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1980. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .