John 7:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 7:39
39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
Chapter Context
John 7 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, obedience, covenant. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-53: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 7:39
39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
Analysis
(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) John's parenthetical explanation clarifies that living water symbolizes the Holy Spirit. Believers would receive the Spirit after Jesus's glorification (death, resurrection, ascension). The phrase 'Holy Ghost was not yet given' doesn't mean the Spirit didn't exist, but that Pentecostal outpouring awaited Christ's completed work. Reformed theology emphasizes the ordo salutis—Christ's work precedes Spirit's application of redemption.
Historical Context
Old Testament believers had the Spirit's work (regeneration, indwelling of some leaders and prophets), but Pentecost marked a new era—permanent indwelling for all believers, universal empowerment for witness. Jesus promised the Spirit's coming (John 14:16-17, 15:26, 16:7-14), fulfilled in Acts 2. The early church understood their Spirit-empowerment as fulfillment of Joel 2:28-32 and Jesus's promise. Church history shows periods of Spirit-emphasis (Montanism, Pietism, Pentecostalism) alongside periods of neglect.
Reflection
- What changed at Pentecost regarding the Spirit's work?
- How does Christ's glorification relate to the Spirit's outpouring?
- What does permanent Spirit indwelling mean for believers today?
Word Studies
- Holy: ἅγιος (Hagios) G40 - Holy, sacred, set apart
Cross-References
- Spirit: Isaiah 32:15, 44:3, Joel 2:28, Acts 2:17, Romans 8:9
- Holy: Acts 2:4, 2:33, 2:38
- Glory: John 12:16
- Parallel theme: John 16:7