New Testament
John 4:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Meanwhile, his disciples were urging him, "Rabbi, eat something."
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In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat.
What John 4:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the disciples of Jesus are concerned about his well-being and are urging him to eat. They recognize that he has been engaged in important discussions and ministry, likely forgetting to take care of his physical needs. This moment highlights the human aspect of Jesus, showing that even he needed sustenance. The disciples, who have been with him, are attentive to his needs and are trying to encourage him to take a break and nourish himself. This interaction reflects the care and camaraderie among the disciples, as they look out for their teacher. It also serves as a reminder that spiritual work can sometimes lead to neglecting physical needs, emphasizing the importance of balance in life. Jesus' response to their urging, which follows in the next verses, will further illustrate his priorities and mission, showing that he is focused on spiritual nourishment as well.
How to apply John 4:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to be attentive to the needs of those around us, especially leaders or those in ministry. It reminds us that while spiritual work is vital, we must also care for our physical well-being and that of others. Balance is key.
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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Keep studying John 4:31
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 4:31 mean?
John 4:31 shows the disciples urging Jesus to eat, highlighting their concern for his physical well-being after a period of ministry. It illustrates the human side of Jesus and the importance of caring for one's physical needs.
What is the significance of the disciples urging Jesus to eat in John 4:31?
The disciples' urging reflects their attentiveness to Jesus' needs, emphasizing the bond between them. It serves as a reminder that even those engaged in spiritual work need to take care of their physical health.
What does this verse reveal about Jesus' humanity?
This verse reveals that Jesus, despite his divine mission, experienced human needs like hunger. It underscores the balance between spiritual duties and physical care.
How does John 4:31 relate to the theme of discipleship?
In John 4:31, the disciples demonstrate care for their leader, which is a key aspect of discipleship. It shows that being a disciple involves looking out for the well-being of others.
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