John 4:19

The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

The woman {G1135} saith {G3004} unto him {G846}, Sir {G2962}, I perceive {G2334} that {G3754} thou {G4771} art {G1488} a prophet {G4396}.

“Sir, I can see that you are a prophet,” the woman replied.

“Sir,” the woman said, “I see that You are a prophet.

The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

Commentary

In John 4:19, the Samaritan woman's declaration, "The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet," marks a pivotal moment in her encounter with Jesus at Jacob's well. This statement reveals a significant shift in her understanding of His identity, moving beyond mere curiosity to genuine spiritual recognition.

Context of John 4:19

This verse follows a profound interaction where Jesus has supernaturally revealed details about the woman's personal life, specifically her five previous husbands and current living situation (John 4:17-18). Initially, she saw Jesus as a Jewish man asking for water, then perhaps a wise teacher. His accurate, intimate knowledge of her past, which He could not have known naturally, deeply impresses her. This demonstration of divine insight causes her to conclude that He is more than an ordinary man—He is a prophet, a messenger from God. This recognition prepares the way for the deeper revelation of Jesus as the Messiah.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Revelation: Jesus's demonstration of supernatural knowledge serves as a powerful testament to His divine connection and authority. He reveals truth not only about her past but also about God's nature and true worship.
  • Spiritual Perception: The woman's journey illustrates a progressive spiritual awakening. Her initial skepticism or casual interaction gives way to a dawning awareness of Jesus's unique identity. Her "perception" (Greek: ginōskō) signifies a growing, experiential knowledge.
  • The Path to Faith: Acknowledging Jesus as a prophet is a crucial step toward recognizing Him as the Christ. It shifts the conversation from earthly matters (water) to spiritual truths (worship and the Messiah), paving the way for her transformation and subsequent testimony to her village (John 4:28-30).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "perceive" is ginōskō (γινώσκω), which implies a knowledge gained through experience or observation, not merely intellectual assent. It suggests a growing understanding or recognition. The term "prophet" (Greek: prophētēs, προφήτης) refers to one who speaks for God, revealing divine will or truth. In the Old Testament, prophets often performed signs or revealed hidden knowledge to validate their message (e.g., Deuteronomy 18:15). The woman's use of this title indicates her belief that Jesus possessed such divine insight.

Practical Application

The Samaritan woman's experience at the well offers profound lessons for believers today. Just as Jesus met her in her brokenness and revealed Himself progressively, He often reveals Himself to us in ways that challenge our preconceptions and lead us to deeper understanding. Our spiritual journey often involves a gradual recognition of who Jesus truly is, moving from seeing Him as merely a good teacher or historical figure to acknowledging His divine nature and authority. This verse encourages us to be open to God's revelations, allowing them to transform our perception and draw us closer to Him.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • John 6:14 (6 votes)

    Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.

  • Luke 7:39 (6 votes)

    Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw [it], he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman [this is] that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.

  • Luke 7:16 (5 votes)

    And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.

  • John 9:17 (5 votes)

    They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.

  • John 7:40 (4 votes)

    Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.

  • Matthew 21:11 (4 votes)

    And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.

  • 2 Kings 6:12 (3 votes)

    And one of his servants said, None, my lord, O king: but Elisha, the prophet that [is] in Israel, telleth the king of Israel the words that thou speakest in thy bedchamber.