New Testament
John 7:39
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 is speaking about the Holy Spirit, indicating that those who believe in Him will eventually receive this gift.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
(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.)
(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.)
Verse Analysis
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. Explore related spirituality.
Related Bible verses
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.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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.

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.
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