New Testament
John 4:10
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Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water."
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Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
What John 4:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks to a Samaritan woman at a well, revealing profound truths about spiritual gifts. He refers to 'the gift of God,' which symbolizes salvation and eternal life. Jesus emphasizes that if she truly understood who He was, she would have asked Him for 'living water.' This living water represents the Holy Spirit and the eternal satisfaction that comes from a relationship with God. The woman initially misunderstands, thinking of physical water, but Jesus is inviting her to a deeper spiritual experience. His offer of living water signifies that He can quench spiritual thirst and provide lasting fulfillment, unlike anything the world offers. This interaction highlights the importance of recognizing Jesus' identity and the gifts He offers to those who seek Him sincerely.
How to apply John 4:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek a deeper relationship with Jesus, recognizing that He offers true fulfillment. When we feel spiritually thirsty or unfulfilled, we should turn to Him, asking for the living water that satisfies our deepest needs and desires.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Woman at the Well (John 4:1–42)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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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 'living water' mean in John 4:10?
In John 4:10, 'living water' refers to the spiritual nourishment and eternal life that Jesus offers. It symbolizes the Holy Spirit and the deep satisfaction that comes from a relationship with God. Unlike physical water, which only quenches thirst temporarily, living water fulfills our spiritual needs and provides lasting joy and peace.
Why did Jesus talk to a Samaritan woman at the well?
Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman to break social norms and demonstrate that His message of salvation is for everyone, regardless of background or gender. This interaction highlights His mission to reach the marginalized and to reveal His identity as the Messiah. It also serves as a lesson in overcoming prejudices and sharing God's love with all.
How can I ask Jesus for 'living water'?
To ask Jesus for 'living water,' you can pray sincerely, expressing your desire for a deeper relationship with Him. Acknowledge your spiritual thirst and seek His presence in your life. Reading the Bible, engaging in prayer, and participating in community worship can help you connect with Jesus and receive the fulfillment He offers.
What is the significance of the 'gift of God' mentioned in this verse?
The 'gift of God' in John 4:10 signifies the grace of salvation and eternal life that Jesus offers to humanity. It emphasizes that this gift is not earned but given freely to those who believe in Him. Understanding this gift is crucial for recognizing the depth of Jesus' love and the transformative power of accepting Him into our lives.
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