New Testament
John 4:46
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus returns to Cana of Galilee, the place where he performed his first miracle by turning water into wine.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
So Jesus came again to Cana of Galilee, where he had made the water into wine. And there was a certain royal official whose son was sick at Capernaum.
So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus returns to Cana of Galilee, the place where he performed his first miracle by turning water into wine. This setting is significant as it highlights Jesus' ministry and the miracles he performed. A royal official, likely a person of high status, comes to Jesus because his son is gravely ill in Capernaum, which is about 20 miles away. This official's desperation shows the lengths to which parents will go to seek help for their children. The mention of Capernaum indicates that Jesus' reputation as a healer has spread beyond Cana, attracting people from different regions. The royal official's faith in Jesus is about to be tested, as he seeks healing for his son, demonstrating the theme of faith and the power of Jesus' words. This encounter sets the stage for a significant miracle that will reveal Jesus' authority over illness and distance, emphasizing that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 4:46 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek help from Jesus in times of crisis. Just as the royal official sought Jesus for his sick son, we too can bring our concerns to Him. It reminds us that faith in Jesus can lead to healing and hope, even in desperate situations.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 4:46 mean?
John 4:46 describes Jesus returning to Cana, the site of his first miracle, where a royal official seeks his help for his sick son in Capernaum. This highlights Jesus' growing reputation as a healer and the faith of those who come to him for help.
What is the significance of Cana in John 4:46?
Cana is significant in John 4:46 because it is where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine. This setting emphasizes the beginning of his ministry and the miracles that attract people to him.
Who is the royal official in John 4:46?
The royal official in John 4:46 is likely a person of high status who comes to Jesus out of desperation for his sick son. His actions demonstrate the lengths to which parents will go to seek healing for their children.
What does this verse teach about faith?
This verse illustrates the theme of faith, as the royal official believes that Jesus can heal his son despite the distance. It shows that faith in Jesus can lead to miraculous outcomes, even in desperate situations.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
Unlock the full John summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of John — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 21 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of John summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.