King James Version
What Does John 4:13 Mean?
“Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:”
Context
11
The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?
12
Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?
13
Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:
14
But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
15
The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(13, 14) **Whosoever drinketh of this water.**—Jesus does not answer her question, but asserts the universal recurrence of thirst, after even the water of Jacob’s well, to lead her to the thought that His “living water” is something widely different.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 4:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 4:13
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge