New Testament
John 1:39
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He said to them, "Come and see." So they went and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about the tenth hour.
Compare translations
He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour.
What John 1:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus invites two of his early followers to come and see where he is staying. This invitation is significant as it reflects Jesus' openness and willingness to share his life with others. The phrase 'Come and see' suggests a personal experience and exploration of faith rather than just hearing about it. The two disciples respond to his invitation, indicating their curiosity and desire to learn more about him. They spend the day with Jesus, which implies a deepening relationship and understanding of who he is. The mention of the 'tenth hour' indicates a specific time, which may suggest the importance of this moment in their lives. This encounter marks the beginning of their journey as followers of Christ, highlighting the importance of personal experience in faith.
How to apply John 1:39 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek personal experiences with Jesus. Just as the disciples were invited to spend time with him, we too can take the initiative to explore our faith. Engaging with Jesus personally can deepen our understanding and relationship with him.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The First Disciples (John 1:35–51)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about John 1:39
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying John 1:39
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 1:39 mean?
John 1:39 captures Jesus inviting two of his early followers to come and see where he is staying. This invitation signifies openness and the importance of personal experience in faith.
What is the significance of 'Come and see' in John 1:39?
The phrase 'Come and see' in John 1:39 emphasizes an invitation to explore and experience faith personally, rather than just hearing about it from others.
What does the 'tenth hour' refer to in John 1:39?
The 'tenth hour' in John 1:39 indicates a specific time of day, which may highlight the importance of the moment when the disciples began their journey with Jesus.
What themes are present in John 1:39?
John 1:39 includes themes of invitation, discipleship, personal experience, curiosity, and the relationship between Jesus and his followers.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.