King James Version
What Does John 4:14 Mean?
“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.”
Context
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.
16
Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(14) **The water that I shall give him.**—These words are emphatic as opposed to *this* water. It is not an external supply, which must be sought to meet the recurring physical want, but it is the inner never-failing source, the fountain of living water, which satisfies every want as it occurs. He who has it, therefore, can never thirst. Coming from the source of all life, it issues in eternal life. (Comp. Notes on John 7:37-38.)
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 4:14 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 4:14
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge