New Testament
John 2:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
and said to him, "Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have had plenty to drink. But you have kept the good wine until now."
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And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.
What John 2:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker highlights a common practice at feasts where the best wine is served first, and once guests have had enough to drink, the lesser quality wine is offered. However, in this situation, the host has saved the best wine for last, which is unexpected and remarkable. This statement emphasizes the quality of what has just been provided, suggesting that it surpasses all that came before it. The miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana is not just about the act itself but also about the significance of offering something extraordinary at a time when it is least expected. This reflects a deeper truth about God's generosity and the blessings He provides, often exceeding our expectations. It serves as a reminder that divine gifts can come in surprising ways and at unexpected times, encouraging us to remain open to the goodness that life can offer.
How to apply John 2:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to appreciate the unexpected blessings in our lives. Just as the best wine was saved for last, we should remain hopeful and open to the good things that may come our way, even when we least expect them. Trust in the goodness of God.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Water into Wine at Cana (John 2:1–11)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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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 2:10 mean?
John 2:10 describes a surprising moment at a wedding feast where the host serves the best wine last, contrary to the usual practice of serving it first. This highlights the exceptional quality of the wine Jesus provided, symbolizing God's generosity and the unexpected blessings He offers.
What is the significance of the wine in John 2:10?
The wine in John 2:10 represents not only the miracle of Jesus turning water into wine but also the idea that God's gifts often exceed our expectations. Serving the best wine last emphasizes the theme of divine provision and the joy that comes from unexpected blessings.
What does the phrase 'kept the good wine until now' mean in John 2:10?
The phrase 'kept the good wine until now' indicates that the host has saved the best for last, which is unusual for feasts. It suggests that what has just been provided is of superior quality, reinforcing the idea of God's abundant generosity.
How does John 2:10 relate to the theme of generosity?
John 2:10 illustrates the theme of generosity by showing that the host offers the best wine at a time when it is least expected. This reflects God's nature of providing blessings that surpass our expectations, encouraging us to recognize and appreciate the good things in our lives.
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