John 4:23

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.

But {G235} the hour {G5610} cometh {G2064}, and {G2532} now {G3568} is {G2076}, when {G3753} the true {G228} worshippers {G4353} shall worship {G4352} the Father {G3962} in {G1722} spirit {G4151} and {G2532} in truth {G225}: for {G2532}{G1063} the Father {G3962} seeketh {G2212} such {G5108} to worship {G4352} him {G846}.

But the time is coming — indeed, it’s here now — when the true worshippers will worship the Father spiritually and truly, for these are the kind of people the Father wants worshipping him.

But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him.

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth: for such doth the Father seek to be his worshippers.

John 4:23 is a pivotal verse in Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well, revealing a profound shift in the nature of worship. It declares that the time has arrived when genuine worship will transcend geographical locations and ritualistic forms, focusing instead on a sincere heart attitude and a true understanding of God. This verse encapsulates the essence of New Covenant worship.

Context

This verse is part of Jesus' extended dialogue with the Samaritan woman. Their discussion initially revolves around physical water, then living water, and eventually shifts to the contentious issue of where true worship should take place. The Samaritans worshipped on Mount Gerizim, while the Jews insisted Jerusalem was the only legitimate place (John 4:20). Jesus' statement in John 4:23 directly addresses this centuries-old dispute, declaring that true worship is not bound by specific mountains or cities, but by a spiritual reality that was dawning with His arrival. The phrase "the hour cometh, and now is" echoes other declarations of a new spiritual reality breaking into the present (John 5:25).

Key Themes

  • The Dawn of a New Era of Worship: The phrase "the hour cometh, and now is" signifies that the transition from old covenant worship, with its temple and sacrifices, to a new, more intimate and personal worship through Christ, is actively happening.
  • Worship in Spirit: This refers to worship that originates from the innermost being, empowered by the Holy Spirit, rather than outward rituals or mere lip service. It emphasizes the heart, sincerity, and an authentic connection with God. As Paul later writes, Christians "worship God in the spirit" (Philippians 3:3).
  • Worship in Truth: This aspect means worship based on God's revealed truth, particularly as embodied in Jesus Christ, who is the Truth. It implies worship that aligns with God's nature, His Word, and the reality of who He is, free from superstition, ignorance, or false teachings.
  • God Seeks Worshippers: The remarkable declaration "for the Father seeketh such to worship him" highlights God's active desire for a relationship with humanity. He isn't passively waiting for worship; He is actively drawing people to Himself, longing for genuine connection and adoration.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek words for "spirit" (pneuma) and "truth" (aletheia) are central here. Pneuma refers to the non-physical, inner essence of a person, and also the Holy Spirit who empowers believers. Thus, "worship in spirit" means worship from the heart, animated by God's Spirit. Aletheia signifies reality, sincerity, and divine revelation. Worship in "truth" therefore means worship that is authentic, genuine, and grounded in the revealed reality of God through Christ.

Practical Application

John 4:23 profoundly impacts how believers approach worship today. It shifts the focus from external forms, locations, or even specific musical styles, to the internal disposition of the heart and the theological accuracy of our understanding of God. True worship is not limited to church buildings or Sunday services but is a continuous, heart-felt response to God's character and His saving work. It calls us to live lives that reflect God's truth and are led by His Spirit, making every aspect of our existence an act of worship.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Philippians 3:3

    For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

  • John 5:25

    Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.

  • Galatians 4:6

    And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

  • Matthew 15:7

    [Ye] hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,

  • Matthew 15:9

    But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.

  • Romans 8:26

    ¶ Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

  • Jude 1:20

    But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
← Back