John 4:51
And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him, saying, Thy son liveth.
Original Language Analysis
αὐτῷ
him
G846
αὐτῷ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 17
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δοῦλοι
servants
G1401
δοῦλοι
servants
Strong's:
G1401
Word #:
6 of 17
a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)
αὐτῷ
him
G846
αὐτῷ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
7 of 17
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
αὐτῷ
him
G846
αὐτῷ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
9 of 17
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
λέγοντες
him saying
G3004
λέγοντες
him saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
12 of 17
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὅτι
G3754
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
The servants' journey from Capernaum indicates the significance they placed on sharing good news immediately. Their meeting the nobleman before his return home suggests they left Capernaum quickly after the healing.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God sometimes confirm our faith after we've already trusted His word?
- What role does the testimony of others play in strengthening our confidence in Christ's work?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The servants' announcement 'Thy son liveth' confirms Jesus' word precisely. Their coming to meet him shows the household's concern and joy. This confirmation, while not necessary for faith, strengthens it—God often graciously provides evidence after we trust His promises. The servants' report will establish the exact moment of healing.