John 4:49
What does John 4:49 mean?
A plain-English look at John 4:49 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 4:49 means
Despite Jesus' challenge to his faith, the nobleman's immediate concern for his dying child overrides any theological debate. He reiterates his desperate plea, "Sir, come down ere my child die." This persistent cry reveals his profound paternal love and unwavering conviction that only Jesus can save his son, demonstrating a raw, urgent faith that prioritizes his child's life above all else, even if his understanding of Jesus' power is still developing.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die.
KJV
King James Version · 1611The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949The man said, Sir, come down before my boy is dead.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862The courtier saith unto him, `Sir, come down before my child die;'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752The ruler saith to him: Lord, come down before that my son die.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890The courtier says to him, Sir, come down ere my child die.
Context
This verse captures the nobleman's immediate, heartfelt re-plea to Jesus, prioritizing his child's life over Jesus' theological challenge. It directly follows Jesus' statement about needing signs and wonders to believe in verse 48. This desperate appeal showcases the nobleman's deep love and persistent faith, setting the stage for Jesus to fully demonstrate His authority and compassion, requiring faith in His word alone.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Mark 5:23
and beseecheth him much, saying, My little daughter is at the point of death: I pray thee, that thou come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be made whole, and live.
- Mark 5:35
While he yet spake, they come from the ruler of the synagogue’s house, saying, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Teacher any further?
- Psalms 40:17
But I am poor and needy; Yetthe Lord thinketh upon me: Thou art my help and my deliverer; Make no tarrying, O my God.
- Psalms 88:10
Wilt thou show wonders to the dead? Shall they that are deceased arise and praise thee? [Selah
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