New Testament
John 4:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus said to her, "I who speak to you am he."
Compare translations
Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.
What John 4:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus reveals his identity to a Samaritan woman at the well. He is affirming that he is the Messiah, the one they have been waiting for. This moment is significant because it shows Jesus breaking social norms by speaking to a Samaritan and a woman, highlighting his mission to reach all people. The woman had been discussing the coming Messiah, and Jesus directly claims that he is that person. This revelation is pivotal, as it not only confirms his identity but also sets the stage for the woman's transformation and her subsequent testimony to her community. It emphasizes the theme of divine revelation and the inclusivity of Jesus' message, as he offers salvation to everyone, regardless of their background or past. This encounter illustrates the personal nature of faith and the importance of recognizing Jesus as the Savior.
How to apply John 4:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize Jesus as the Messiah in our own lives. It reminds us that Jesus reaches out to everyone, regardless of their past or social status. We should also be open to sharing our faith with others, just as the Samaritan woman did.
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 Woman at the Well (John 4:1–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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 4:26
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 4:26
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 4:26 mean?
In John 4:26, Jesus reveals to the Samaritan woman that he is the Messiah, the one she has been discussing. This moment is significant as it highlights Jesus' mission to reach all people, breaking social barriers.
What is the significance of Jesus saying 'I am he' in John 4:26?
When Jesus says 'I am he,' he is affirming his identity as the Messiah. This declaration is crucial because it not only confirms who he is but also initiates a transformative encounter for the woman.
How does John 4:26 relate to the theme of transformation?
In John 4:26, Jesus' revelation of his identity leads to the woman's transformation. After this encounter, she becomes a witness to her community, illustrating how recognizing Jesus can change lives.
What does this verse teach about sharing faith?
John 4:26 encourages believers to share their faith with others, as demonstrated by the Samaritan woman. Her willingness to testify about Jesus shows the importance of spreading the message of salvation.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.