New Testament
John 4:47
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea into Galilee, he went to him and begged him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death.
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When he heard that Jesus was come out of Judaea into Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that he would come down, and heal his son: for he was at the point of death.
What John 4:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a man hears that Jesus has arrived in Galilee after traveling from Judea. This man, whose son is gravely ill and near death, urgently seeks out Jesus. He approaches Jesus with desperation, pleading for Him to come and heal his son. This moment highlights the man's faith and hope in Jesus' ability to heal, showing the lengths a parent will go to for their child's well-being. The urgency of the situation is emphasized by the phrase 'at the point of death,' indicating that time is of the essence. The man's actions reflect a deep belief that Jesus can perform miracles, and his willingness to seek help demonstrates the importance of faith in times of crisis. This encounter sets the stage for a significant miracle that will reveal Jesus' power and compassion.
How to apply John 4:47 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek help in times of crisis, especially through faith. It reminds us that turning to Jesus in our most desperate moments can lead to healing and hope. We should not hesitate to reach out for support when facing challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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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 4:47
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Key themes
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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 4:47 mean?
John 4:47 describes a desperate father who hears that Jesus has come to Galilee and seeks Him out to heal his dying son. This verse illustrates the father's faith in Jesus' healing power and his urgent plea for help.
What is the significance of the father's plea in John 4:47?
The father's plea in John 4:47 highlights the lengths a parent will go to for their child's well-being. It shows his deep faith in Jesus' ability to heal, emphasizing the urgency of the situation as his son is near death.
What does 'at the point of death' mean in John 4:47?
The phrase 'at the point of death' in John 4:47 indicates that the boy is gravely ill and close to dying. This urgency drives the father to seek Jesus, reflecting the critical nature of the situation.
What themes are present in John 4:47?
John 4:47 encompasses themes of faith, desperation, healing, parental love, and urgency. It illustrates how faith can motivate individuals to seek help in dire circumstances.
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