King James Version
What Does John 4:3 Mean?
“He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee.”
Context
1
When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John,
2
(Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)
3
He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee.
4
And he must needs go through Samaria.
5
Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Again.**—This word is almost certainly part of the original text, though it is not found in some MSS. Its omission is due to a difficulty of interpretation. What is the previous return into Galilee? The only one mentioned in this Gospel is that of John 1:43. We have had another note of time in John 3:24, from which we learn that this Judæan period of the ministry preceded the imprisonment of John, and therefore the commencement of the Galilean ministry recorded in Matthew 4:12 (see Note there) and Mark 1:14. This second return, then, is the starting-point of the history of our Lord’s work in Galilee as told by the earlier Gospels.
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 4:3 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 4:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge