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.
Original Language Analysis
δεῖ
must
G1163
δεῖ
must
Strong's:
G1163
Word #:
2 of 17
also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)
ἐργάζεσθαι
work
G2038
ἐργάζεσθαι
work
Strong's:
G2038
Word #:
3 of 17
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔργα
the works
G2041
ἔργα
the works
Strong's:
G2041
Word #:
5 of 17
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πέμψαντός
of him that sent
G3992
πέμψαντός
of him that sent
Strong's:
G3992
Word #:
7 of 17
to dispatch (from the subjective view or point of departure, whereas ???? (as a stronger form of ????) refers rather to the objective point or <i>term
ἕως
while
G2193
ἕως
while
Strong's:
G2193
Word #:
9 of 17
a conjunction, preposition and adverb of continuance, until (of time and place)
ἡμέρα
day
G2250
ἡμέρα
day
Strong's:
G2250
Word #:
10 of 17
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
ἔρχεται
cometh
G2064
ἔρχεται
cometh
Strong's:
G2064
Word #:
12 of 17
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
Cross References
John 12:35Then 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.John 4:34Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.Ephesians 5:16Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.Ecclesiastes 9:10Whatsoever 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.Galatians 6:10As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.John 17:4I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.Colossians 4:5Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.John 5:36But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.John 10:32Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?Acts 4:20For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Historical Context
This verse introduces the healing with urgency motif. Jesus' ministry had limited duration. His 'night' would come at the cross. The principle extends to believers—we too have limited 'day' for our work. Procrastination squanders opportunity.
Questions for Reflection
- How does awareness of limited time affect how we use present opportunities?
- What 'works' has God sent you to do while it is still 'day' for you?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
'I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.' Jesus expresses urgency. His 'day' of earthly ministry is limited; 'night' (death, arrest, end of public ministry) approaches. While opportunity exists, He must work. This models faithful stewardship of time. 'The works of him that sent me' emphasizes mission consciousness. Jesus worked with deadline awareness.