King James Version

What Does John 7:40 Mean?

John 7:40 in the King James Version says “Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet. — study this verse from John chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.

John 7:40 · KJV


Context

38

He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

39

(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

40

Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.

41

Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee?

42

Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet. Some identify Jesus as 'the Prophet' whom Moses predicted (Deuteronomy 18:15-18). This shows partial understanding—Jesus is indeed the Prophet, but He's also much more (Messiah, Son of God). Their recognition is step toward full faith but incomplete. The crowd remains divided about Jesus's identity.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Deuteronomy 18:15-18 predicted a prophet like Moses whom God would raise up. First-century Jews expected this prophet, sometimes distinguishing him from Messiah (John 1:21, 25), sometimes identifying them. Jesus is the ultimate prophet—God's final word (Hebrews 1:1-2). Peter applies Deuteronomy 18 to Jesus in Acts 3:22-23. Yet prophet doesn't capture Jesus's full identity—He's also priest and king.

Reflection Questions

  1. How is Jesus 'the Prophet' Moses predicted?
  2. Why is 'prophet' inadequate to fully describe Jesus?
  3. What other titles and roles does Jesus fulfill?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
πολλοὶ1 of 14

Many

G4183

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

οὖν2 of 14

therefore

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

Ἐκ3 of 14

of

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

τοῦ4 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ὄχλου5 of 14

the people

G3793

a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot

ἀκούσαντες6 of 14

when they heard

G191

to hear (in various senses)

τὸν7 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

λόγον,8 of 14

this saying

G3056

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

ἔλεγον9 of 14

said

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

Οὗτός10 of 14

this

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

ἐστιν11 of 14

is

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

ἀληθῶς12 of 14

Of a truth

G230

truly

13 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

προφήτης·14 of 14

the Prophet

G4396

a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet


Study Guide

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 7:40 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 7:40 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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