John 4:3
What does John 4:3 mean?
A plain-English look at John 4:3 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 4:3 means
In response to the Pharisees' awareness of His burgeoning ministry, Jesus made a deliberate choice to leave Judea and return to Galilee. This strategic withdrawal was not out of fear, but likely a move to avoid premature confrontation and to continue His ministry according to God's timing and plan. It shows Jesus' wisdom in navigating political and religious tensions, ensuring His mission unfolded as intended.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000he left Judæa, and departed again into Galilee.
KJV
King James Version · 1611He left Judea, and departed again into Galilee.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901he left Judæa, and departed again into Galilee.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949He went out of Judaea into Galilee again.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862he left Judea and went away again to Galilee,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752He left Judea and went again into Galilee.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890he left Judaea and went away again unto Galilee.
Context
Following the understanding that the Pharisees were observing His growing influence (verse 1) and the clarification about baptism (verse 2), Jesus' departure from Judea is presented as a direct consequence. This move sets the geographical scene for the next major narrative segment: His journey through Samaria, a route often avoided by Jews, which paves the way for His significant encounter with the Samaritan woman.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 1:43
On the morrow he was minded to go forth into Galilee, and he findeth Philip: and Jesus saith unto him, Follow me.
- John 10:40
And he went away again beyond the Jordan into the place where John was at the first baptizing; and there he abode.
- John 3:32
What he hath seen and heard, of that he beareth witness; and no man receiveth his witness.
- Matthew 10:23
But when they persecute you in this city, flee into the next: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone through the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.
- John 2:11
This beginning of his signs did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested his glory; and his disciples believed on him.
- John 3:22
After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judæa; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.
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