John 9:4

I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

I {G1691} must {G1163} work {G2038} the works {G2041} of him that sent {G3992} me {G3165}, while {G2193} it is {G2076} day {G2250}: the night {G3571} cometh {G2064}, when {G3753} no man {G3762} can {G1410} work {G2038}.

As long as it is day, we must keep doing the work of the One who sent me; the night is coming, when no one can work.

While it is daytime, we must do the works of Him who sent Me. Night is coming, when no one can work.

We must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

Commentary

John 9:4 (KJV): "I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work."

Context

This powerful statement by Jesus is made at the beginning of the narrative concerning the healing of a man born blind in John chapter 9. Before performing the miracle, Jesus’ disciples asked Him if the man’s blindness was due to his own sin or his parents' sin. Jesus refutes this common misconception, declaring that the man was blind "that the works of God should be made manifest in him" (John 9:3). Immediately following this, Jesus shifts the focus from theological debate to the urgency of His divine mission, setting the stage for the miraculous restoration of sight.

Key Themes

  • Divine Commission: Jesus unequivocally states that He is compelled to perform "the works of him that sent me." This highlights His absolute obedience and dedication to His Father's will and purpose. His entire earthly ministry was a manifestation of God's active presence and power among humanity.
  • Urgency of Ministry: The phrase "while it is day" emphasizes the limited window of opportunity for Jesus' earthly ministry. This "day" represents the period of His public life and active service before His Passion.
  • Imminent Cessation of Work: "The night cometh, when no man can work" refers to the impending end of Jesus' active public ministry, culminating in His arrest, trial, and crucifixion. This "night" symbolizes the darkness of His suffering and death, during which the type of redemptive work He was performing would temporarily cease in its direct earthly manifestation. It also speaks to the broader truth that opportunities for service are not endless.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "works" is ergon (ἔργον), which signifies deeds, actions, or accomplishments. Here, it refers to the specific tasks and miracles Jesus was commissioned by God to perform. The contrast between "day" (hemera, ἡμέρα) and "night" (nyx, νύξ) is a powerful metaphor throughout Scripture. "Day" represents a time of opportunity, light, and activity, while "night" symbolizes a period of cessation, darkness, or judgment. Jesus' statement underscores the importance of walking in the light while there is day, completing the tasks given by God.

Practical Application

While Jesus' statement primarily refers to His unique divine mission, it carries profound application for all believers. We too are called to "work the works of him that sent me" within the context of our own lives and callings. Every Christian has a limited "day" – the span of their earthly life – to serve God, share the Gospel, and live according to His will. This verse serves as a powerful reminder to:

  • Seize Opportunities: Be diligent in fulfilling our God-given purpose and making the most of every chance to serve Him.
  • Live with Purpose: Understand that our lives have a divine objective, much like Jesus' complete alignment with the Father's will.
  • Recognize Urgency: The "night" for us may be the end of life or a cessation of particular opportunities. Therefore, we should not procrastinate in doing what God has called us to do.

This verse encourages a life of active faith and dedicated service, understanding that our time and opportunities are precious gifts from God.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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 12:35 (67 votes)

    Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.

  • Ephesians 5:16 (50 votes)

    Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

  • John 4:34 (48 votes)

    Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

  • Ecclesiastes 9:10 (43 votes)

    Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do [it] with thy might; for [there is] no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

  • John 11:9 (40 votes)

    Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.

  • John 11:10 (40 votes)

    But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.

  • Galatians 6:10 (34 votes)

    As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.