John 4:23

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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.

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 4:23 stands as a profound declaration by Jesus to the Samaritan woman, signaling a pivotal shift in the nature of worship. It proclaims the dawn of a new era where genuine adoration of God the Father transcends geographical confines and ritualistic prescriptions, moving instead to an internal, Spirit-empowered, and truth-grounded encounter. This verse encapsulates the essence of New Covenant worship, emphasizing an intimate, authentic relationship with the Creator, who actively seeks out those who will worship Him in this transformed manner.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Jesus’ extended dialogue with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, a conversation that begins with the mundane topic of physical water and gradually ascends to profound spiritual truths. After Jesus reveals His supernatural knowledge of her life, the woman, recognizing His prophetic authority, shifts the discussion to a long-standing theological dispute between Jews and Samaritans: the proper place of worship. She states, "Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship" [John 4:20](/john/4-20 "John 4:20 - The Samaritan Woman's Question about Worship"). Jesus' response in John 4:21-24 directly addresses this contention, asserting that the physical location of worship is becoming obsolete, superseded by a spiritual reality ushered in by His presence. The declaration "the hour cometh, and now is" is a characteristic Johannine phrase, signifying the eschatological "now" where God's redemptive purposes are actively breaking into human history, as seen in other passages like [Jesus' declaration about the dead hearing His voice](/john/5-25 "John 5:25 - The Hour When the Dead Hear Jesus' Voice").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The animosity between Jews and Samaritans was deeply rooted in centuries of religious and ethnic division. The Samaritans were descendants of Israelites who intermarried with foreign peoples after the Assyrian conquest in 722 BC, developing their own distinct religious practices centered on Mount Gerizim, which they believed was the divinely appointed place of worship, in contrast to the Jewish conviction that Jerusalem's Temple was God's sole dwelling place. This dispute was not merely geographical but theological, touching upon issues of identity, covenant, and legitimate worship. For Jesus to declare that neither Mount Gerizim nor Jerusalem would be the exclusive locus of worship was revolutionary, dismantling deeply entrenched cultural and religious boundaries and pointing to a universal, spiritual access to God. This statement would have been particularly shocking and liberating for the Samaritan woman, challenging her inherited religious framework.
* **Key Themes:** John 4:23 contributes significantly to several major themes within John's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights **the inauguration of the New Covenant**, where external rituals and specific locations give way to an internal, heart-centered relationship with God, a theme echoed in the prophecies of a [new covenant written on the heart](/jeremiah/31-31-34 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant"). Secondly, the emphasis on "worship in spirit" underscores the **essential role of the Holy Spirit** in enabling true communion with God, foreshadowing the Spirit's coming at Pentecost, who would empower believers to worship God from their innermost being, as later taught by Paul, who spoke of [worshipping by the Spirit of God](/philippians/3-3 "Philippians 3:3 - Worship by the Spirit of God"). Thirdly, "worship in truth" points to **Jesus Christ as the embodiment of divine revelation**, for He is [the way, the truth, and the life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life"). True worship is therefore grounded in the reality of who God is, as revealed definitively in Jesus, free from human error or false understanding. Finally, the remarkable statement that "the Father seeketh such to worship him" reveals **God's active pursuit of humanity**, demonstrating His profound desire for a genuine, intimate relationship with His creation rather than merely passive reception of homage.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **worshippers (Greek, _proskynētḗs'_):** From G4353, meaning "an adorer." It derives from _proskynéō_ (G4352), which signifies to "fawn or crouch to," or "prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore)." This word emphasizes an act of profound reverence, submission, and adoration, often involving physical prostration. In this context, it refers to those who genuinely offer this deep veneration to God.
* **spirit (Greek, _pneûma'_):** From G4151, meaning "a current of air, i.g., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, etc., or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, the Holy Spirit." In John 4:23, "in spirit" refers primarily to the innermost being of a person, the human spirit, which is enabled and enlivened by the Holy Spirit (God's Spirit) to connect with the divine. It denotes worship that is internal, sincere, and not merely external or ritualistic.
* **truth (Greek, _alḗtheia'_):** From G225, meaning "truth, verity." It signifies reality, sincerity, and divine revelation. In the context of worship, "in truth" means worship that is authentic, genuine, and grounded in the revealed reality of God, particularly as revealed in Jesus Christ Himself, who is the ultimate embodiment of truth. It implies worship that is free from ignorance, superstition, or hypocrisy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the hour cometh, and now is":** This phrase marks a critical turning point. The Greek word for "hour" (_hōra_) often carries eschatological significance in John's Gospel, referring to the decisive moment of God's redemptive plan. The "now is" emphasizes that this new reality is not merely a future promise but is actively breaking into the present through Jesus' ministry. It signifies the transition from the old covenant era, with its temple-centric worship, to the new covenant, inaugurated by Christ.
* **"when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth":** This is the core declaration. "True worshippers" are distinguished from those who merely go through the motions or adhere to external forms. They are those whose worship is authentic and genuine. They "worship the Father," highlighting the intimate, familial relationship made possible through Christ. The dual emphasis on "in spirit and in truth" defines the nature of this new worship: "in spirit" refers to worship that emanates from the regenerated heart, empowered by the Holy Spirit, engaging the deepest part of one's being rather than just outward acts. "In truth" signifies worship that is aligned with God's revealed character and purposes, especially as embodied in Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate revelation of God. It is worship based on reality, not human constructs or false doctrines.
* **"for the Father seeketh such to worship him.":** This concluding clause reveals God's active posture. The Greek word for "seeketh" (_zētéō_) implies a diligent, purposeful search. It is not humanity seeking God in the first instance, but God actively pursuing those who will worship Him in this new, authentic way. This highlights God's initiative in salvation and His profound desire for a personal, intimate relationship with humanity, inviting them into true adoration.

#### Literary Devices
John 4:23 employs several powerful literary devices. **Contrast** is central, setting the old, geographically bound, and ritualistic worship against the new, spiritual, and truth-based worship. This is evident in the shift from "this mountain" or "Jerusalem" to "in spirit and in truth." The phrase "the hour cometh, and now is" functions as a significant **Johannine motif**, emphasizing the **realized eschatology** present throughout the Gospel, where the future kingdom realities are already breaking into the present through Jesus. This creates a sense of immediate urgency and profound significance. The declaration that "the Father seeketh" uses **personification** to attribute an active, purposeful desire to God, transforming Him from a passive recipient of worship into an eager pursuer of genuine relationship. This also serves as a form of **divine invitation**, highlighting God's grace and initiative in drawing humanity to Himself.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 4:23 is foundational for understanding the nature of worship in the New Covenant. It moves beyond the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and geographical specificity, emphasizing that true worship is not about *where* or *how* externally, but *who* and *how* internally. It underscores that God is Spirit, and therefore, worship must be spiritual in nature, engaging the inner person, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, because God is truth, worship must align with His revealed character and the reality of salvation found in Jesus Christ. This verse profoundly shapes Christian theology of worship, asserting that every aspect of a believer's life, lived in submission to God's Spirit and according to His truth, can be an act of worship.

* [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")
* [Philippians 3:3](/philippians/3-3 "Philippians 3:3 - Worship by the Spirit")
* [Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - New and Living Way")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 4:23 calls believers to a radical re-evaluation of their worship. It challenges us to move beyond mere external forms, traditional rituals, or even the confines of a church building, recognizing that true worship is a continuous, internal disposition of the heart. It means cultivating a life where every thought, word, and deed is offered to God as an act of devotion, guided by the Holy Spirit and grounded in the unchanging truth of His Word, particularly as revealed in Jesus Christ. This verse liberates us from the burden of performance-based religion and invites us into an authentic, intimate relationship with a Father who eagerly desires our genuine adoration. It reminds us that our worship is not primarily for our benefit, but for His glory, and that He actively seeks out those who will engage with Him in this profound, Spirit- and truth-filled way.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might my current understanding or practice of worship be more focused on external forms or traditions rather than genuine "spirit and truth"?**
* **How does the active seeking of "the Father" for worshippers change my perception of God's desire for me?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to cultivate a deeper, more consistent "worship in spirit" in my daily life?**
* **How can I ensure that my worship, both personal and corporate, is truly grounded in the "truth" of God's Word and the person of Jesus Christ?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to worship "in spirit" and "in truth" in a practical sense?**

Answer: To worship "in spirit" means to engage your innermost being—your heart, mind, and will—with God. It's worship that is sincere, authentic, and not merely external or ritualistic. It implies being led and empowered by the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to quicken your spirit to connect with God's Spirit. Practically, this means focusing your attention and affection on God, letting go of distractions, and allowing your emotions and intellect to be fully present in your adoration. To worship "in truth" means your worship is grounded in the revealed reality of God, particularly as found in [the person and work of Jesus Christ](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life") and the teachings of [God's Word](/john/17-17 "John 17:17 - Sanctification by Truth"). It means understanding who God truly is, what He has done, and worshipping Him according to that accurate knowledge, free from false ideas or sentimentalism. It requires intellectual honesty and theological soundness, ensuring that your praise and devotion are directed towards the true God.

**Why does Jesus say "the Father seeketh such to worship him"? Does God need our worship?**

Answer: The statement "the Father seeketh such to worship him" (from the Greek _zētéō_, meaning to seek or search for) is a profound revelation of God's character and His active desire for relationship. It doesn't imply that God *needs* our worship in the sense of lacking something or being incomplete without it; God is self-sufficient and eternally glorious. Rather, it highlights His boundless love and grace. God desires genuine, heartfelt worship because it is the natural, loving response of His creation to His infinite worth and His redemptive acts. He seeks worshippers because He delights in intimate communion with His children. This active seeking demonstrates His initiative in drawing humanity to Himself, not waiting passively for us to find Him, but reaching out to establish a relationship where true worship can flourish. It underscores that worship is not a burden or an obligation, but a joyous invitation from a loving Father who longs for authentic connection.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 4:23 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of the "spirit and truth" in which worship is now to be offered. Jesus Himself is "the Truth" [as He declares in John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life"), and His coming inaugurated the new covenant era where God's Spirit would be poured out. Through His atoning work on the cross, Jesus tore down the veil of the temple, providing a [new and living way](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God through Jesus' Blood") for all believers to approach the Father directly, no longer bound by specific geographical locations or the need for a human high priest. He is the mediator who makes worship in spirit and truth possible, for it is through Him that we have access to the Father [by one Spirit](/ephesians/2-18 "Ephesians 2:18 - Access to the Father through the Spirit"). Furthermore, Jesus promised the coming of the [Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth Guides into All Truth"), who would indwell believers, empowering them to worship God from their innermost being and guiding them into all truth. Thus, the worship Jesus describes in John 4:23 is entirely Christ-centered: it is worship made possible *by* Him, defined *through* Him, and empowered *by* the Spirit He sends, leading us into intimate communion with the Father whom He perfectly reveals.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

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,