New Testament
John 7:39
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
(He said this about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him would receive. For the Holy Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.)
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(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
What John 7:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is speaking about the Holy Spirit, indicating that those who believe in Him will eventually receive this gift. At the time of His statement, the Holy Spirit had not yet been given to believers because Jesus had not yet completed His mission on earth, which included His death and resurrection. The phrase 'not yet glorified' refers to the moment when Jesus would be exalted after His resurrection and ascension, which would then allow the Holy Spirit to be sent to empower and guide His followers. This moment is significant because it marks the beginning of a new relationship between believers and God through the Holy Spirit, who would dwell within them, providing guidance, comfort, and strength. Understanding this context helps believers appreciate the importance of the Holy Spirit in their lives today, as it signifies the ongoing presence of God with His people after Jesus' glorification.
How to apply John 7:39 to your life
This verse encourages believers to recognize the importance of the Holy Spirit in their lives. It reminds us that through faith in Jesus, we have access to divine guidance and strength. We should seek to cultivate a relationship with the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to lead us in our daily lives.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: At the Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:10–52)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
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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 7:39 mean?
John 7:39 explains that Jesus was referring to the Holy Spirit, which would be given to believers after His glorification. At that time, the Holy Spirit had not yet been sent because Jesus had not completed His mission on earth.
What is the significance of Jesus' glorification in John 7:39?
Jesus' glorification refers to His resurrection and ascension, which were necessary for the Holy Spirit to be given to believers. This event marks the beginning of a new relationship between God and His followers through the Holy Spirit.
What does 'the Holy Spirit had not yet been given' mean in John 7:39?
This phrase indicates that the Holy Spirit was not yet available to believers at the time of Jesus' statement. The giving of the Holy Spirit would occur after Jesus' resurrection and ascension.
How does John 7:39 relate to the Holy Spirit's role in believers' lives?
John 7:39 highlights that the Holy Spirit is a gift for those who believe in Jesus, providing guidance and empowerment. This verse underscores the importance of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers after Jesus' glorification.
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