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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>John 4:23 But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/john/4-23.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/9/43_Jhn_04_23.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="John 4:23 - Jesus and the Samaritan Woman" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/john/4-23.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/john/4-23.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/john/">John</a> > <a href="/john/4.htm">Chapter 4</a> > Verse 23</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad3.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/john/4-22.htm" title="John 4:22">◄</a> John 4:23 <a href="/john/4-24.htm" title="John 4:24">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/john/4.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/john/4.htm">New International Version</a> Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. <a href="/nlt/john/4.htm">New Living Translation</a> But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. <a href="/esv/john/4.htm">English Standard Version</a> But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. <a href="/bsb/john/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. <a href="/blb/john/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But an hour is coming and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father also seeks such who worship Him. <a href="/kjv/john/4.htm">King James Bible</a> But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. <a href="/nkjv/john/4.htm">New King James Version</a> But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. <a href="/nasb_/john/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> But a time is coming, and even now has arrived, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. <a href="/nasb/john/4.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. <a href="/nasb77/john/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. <a href="/lsb/john/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. <a href="/amp/john/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a> But a time is coming and is already here when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit [from the heart, the inner self] and in truth; for the Father seeks such people to be His worshipers. <a href="/csb/john/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> But an hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and in truth. Yes, the Father wants such people to worship him. <a href="/hcsb/john/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But an hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth. Yes, the Father wants such people to worship Him. <a href="/asv/john/4.htm">American Standard Version</a> But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth: for such doth the Father seek to be his worshippers. <a href="/cev/john/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But a time is coming, and it is already here! Even now the true worshipers are being led by the Spirit to worship the Father according to the truth. These are the ones the Father is seeking to worship him. <a href="/erv/john/4.htm">English Revised Version</a> But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth: for such doth the Father seek to be his worshippers. <a href="/gwt/john/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Indeed, the time is coming, and it is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth. The Father is looking for people like that to worship him. <a href="/gnt/john/4.htm">Good News Translation</a> But the time is coming and is already here, when by the power of God's Spirit people will worship the Father as he really is, offering him the true worship that he wants. <a href="/isv/john/4.htm">International Standard Version</a> Yet the time is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth. Indeed, the Father is looking for people like that to worship him. <a href="/msb/john/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. <a href="/net/john/4.htm">NET Bible</a> But a time is coming--and now is here--when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such people to be his worshipers. <a href="/nheb/john/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such to be his worshippers. <a href="/wbt/john/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. <a href="/wey/john/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But a time is coming--nay, has already come--when the true worshippers will worship the Father with true spiritual worship; for indeed the Father desires such worshippers. <a href="/web/john/4.htm">World English Bible</a> But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such to be his worshipers. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/john/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> but there comes an hour, and it now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father also seeks such to worship Him; <a href="/blb/john/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But an hour is coming and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father also seeks such who worship Him. <a href="/ylt/john/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> but, there cometh an hour, and it now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father also doth seek such to worship him; <a href="/slt/john/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth; for also the Father seeks such worshipping him.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/john/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true adorers shall adore the Father in spirit and in truth. For the Father also seeketh such to adore him. <a href="/cpdv/john/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But the hour is coming, and it is now, when true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth. For the Father also seeks such persons who may worship him. <a href="/nabre/john/4.htm">New American Bible</a> But the hour is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth; and indeed the Father seeks such people to worship him. <a href="/nrsvce/john/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/john/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But the time is coming, and it is here, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father also desires worshippers such as these. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/john/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But the hour is coming and now is, when the true worshipers will worship The Father in The Spirit and in The Truth, for The Father also is seeking such worshippers as these.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/john/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father seeks such to worship him. <a href="/godbey/john/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> <FR>But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such worshiping Him.<Fr> <a href="/haweis/john/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But the hour is coming, yea, is now come, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such worshippers of him. <a href="/mace/john/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a> but the time is coming, nay, is very nigh, when the true worshippers shall worship the father in spirit and in truth: for they are the worshippers which he requires. <a href="/wey/john/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But a time is coming--nay, has already come--when the true worshippers will worship the Father with true spiritual worship; for indeed the Father desires such worshippers. <a href="/worrell/john/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> <FR>But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for, indeed, the Father seeketh such to be His worshipers.<Fr> <a href="/worsley/john/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> <FR>But the time is coming, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth: for the Father requireth such worshippers of Him.<Fr> <a href="/parallel/john/4-23.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ixy2bchmXZ0?start=1081" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/john/4.htm">Jesus and the Samaritan Woman</a> …22You worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23<a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">But</a> <a href="/greek/5610.htm" title="5610: hōra (N-NFS) -- Apparently a primary word; an hour.">a time</a> <a href="/greek/2064.htm" title="2064: erchetai (V-PIM/P-3S) -- To come, go. ">is coming</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3568.htm" title="3568: nyn (Adv) -- A primary particle of present time; now; also as noun or adjective present or immediate.">has now</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">come</a> <a href="/greek/3753.htm" title="3753: hote (Adv) -- When, at which time. From hos and te; at which too, i.e. When.">when</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hoi (Art-NMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/228.htm" title="228: alēthinoi (Adj-NMP) -- True (lit: made of truth), real, genuine. From alethes; truthful.">TRUE</a> <a href="/greek/4353.htm" title="4353: proskynētai (N-NMP) -- A worshipper. From proskuneo; an adorer.">worshipers</a> <a href="/greek/4352.htm" title="4352: proskynēsousin (V-FIA-3P) -- From pros and a probable derivative of kuon; to fawn or crouch to, i.e. prostrate oneself in homage.">will worship</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3962.htm" title="3962: Patri (N-DMS) -- Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a father.">Father</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/4151.htm" title="4151: pneumati (N-DNS) -- Wind, breath, spirit. ">spirit</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/225.htm" title="225: alētheia (N-DFS) -- From alethes; truth.">in truth,</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">for</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3962.htm" title="3962: Patēr (N-NMS) -- Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a father.">Father</a> <a href="/greek/2212.htm" title="2212: zētei (V-PIA-3S) -- To seek, search for, desire, require, demand. Of uncertain affinity; to seek; specially, to worship, or to plot.">is seeking</a> <a href="/greek/5108.htm" title="5108: toioutous (DPro-AMP) -- (including the other inflections); from toi and houtos; truly this, i.e. Of this sort (to denote character or individuality).">such</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tous (Art-AMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">as these</a> <a href="/greek/4352.htm" title="4352: proskynountas (V-PPA-AMP) -- From pros and a probable derivative of kuon; to fawn or crouch to, i.e. prostrate oneself in homage.">to worship</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">Him.</a> 24God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship Him in spirit and in truth.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/john/4-24.htm">John 4:24</a> God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” <a href="/matthew/15-8.htm">Matthew 15:8-9</a> ‘These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. / They worship Me in vain; they teach as doctrine the precepts of men.’” <a href="/isaiah/29-13.htm">Isaiah 29:13</a> Therefore the Lord said: “These people draw near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is but rules taught by men. <a href="/philippians/3-3.htm">Philippians 3:3</a> For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— <a href="/romans/12-1.htm">Romans 12:1</a> Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. <a href="/hebrews/10-22.htm">Hebrews 10:22</a> let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. <a href="/psalms/145-18.htm">Psalm 145:18</a> The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth. <a href="/1_samuel/16-7.htm">1 Samuel 16:7</a> But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” <a href="/2_corinthians/3-17.htm">2 Corinthians 3:17</a> Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. <a href="/ephesians/5-18.htm">Ephesians 5:18-19</a> Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. / Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your hearts to the Lord, <a href="/colossians/3-16.htm">Colossians 3:16</a> Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. <a href="/1_peter/2-5.htm">1 Peter 2:5</a> you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. <a href="/revelation/14-7.htm">Revelation 14:7</a> And he said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come. Worship the One who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and the springs of waters.” <a href="/zechariah/14-16.htm">Zechariah 14:16-17</a> Then all the survivors from the nations that came against Jerusalem will go up year after year to worship the King, the LORD of Hosts, and to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. / And should any of the families of the earth not go up to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of Hosts, then the rain will not fall on them. <a href="/malachi/1-11.htm">Malachi 1:11</a> For My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. In every place, incense and pure offerings will be presented in My name, because My name will be great among the nations,” says the LORD of Hosts.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeks such to worship him.the hour.<a href="/john/5-25.htm">John 5:25</a> Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.<a href="/john/12-23.htm">John 12:23</a> And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.true.<a href="/isaiah/1-10.htm">Isaiah 1:10-15</a> Hear the word of the LORD, ye rulers of Sodom; give ear unto the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrah… <a href="/isaiah/26-8.htm">Isaiah 26:8,9</a> Yea, in the way of thy judgments, O LORD, have we waited for thee; the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee… <a href="/isaiah/29-13.htm">Isaiah 29:13</a> Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:in spirit.<a href="/romans/1-9.htm">Romans 1:9</a> For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;<a href="/romans/8-15.htm">Romans 8:15,26</a> For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father… <a href="/galatians/4-6.htm">Galatians 4:6</a> And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.in truth.<a href="/john/1-17.htm">John 1:17</a> For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.<a href="/joshua/24-14.htm">Joshua 24:14</a> Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.<a href="/1_samuel/12-24.htm">1 Samuel 12:24</a> Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.the Father seeketh.<a href="/psalms/147-11.htm">Psalm 147:11</a> The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.<a href="/proverbs/15-8.htm">Proverbs 15:8</a> The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.<a href="/songs/2-14.htm">Song of Solomon 2:14</a> O my dove, that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sweet is thy voice, and thy countenance is comely.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/john/3-18.htm">Already</a> <a href="/luke/23-25.htm">Desired</a> <a href="/luke/12-47.htm">Desires</a> <a href="/john/4-21.htm">Hour</a> <a href="/john/4-14.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/john/2-6.htm">Kind</a> <a href="/john/1-38.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/luke/11-29.htm">Seeketh</a> <a href="/luke/17-33.htm">Seeks</a> <a href="/john/3-34.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/hosea/9-7.htm">Spiritual</a> <a href="/john/4-21.htm">Time</a> <a href="/john/4-18.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/john/4-18.htm">True.</a> <a href="/john/4-15.htm">Way</a> <a href="/john/4-22.htm">Worship</a> <a href="/luke/1-10.htm">Worshipers</a> <a href="/zephaniah/1-5.htm">Worshippers</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/john/4-35.htm">Already</a> <a href="/john/6-11.htm">Desired</a> <a href="/john/5-21.htm">Desires</a> <a href="/john/4-52.htm">Hour</a> <a href="/john/4-42.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/john/12-33.htm">Kind</a> <a href="/john/4-27.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/john/7-4.htm">Seeketh</a> <a href="/john/7-4.htm">Seeks</a> <a href="/john/4-24.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/john/4-24.htm">Spiritual</a> <a href="/john/4-35.htm">Time</a> <a href="/john/4-24.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/john/4-24.htm">True.</a> <a href="/john/4-24.htm">Way</a> <a href="/john/4-24.htm">Worship</a> <a href="/john/4-24.htm">Worshipers</a> <a href="/john/4-24.htm">Worshippers</a><div class="vheading2">John 4</div>1. <a href="/john/4-1.htm">Jesus talks with a woman of Samaria, and reveals his identity to her.</a> 27. <a href="/john/4-27.htm">His disciples marvel.</a> 31. <a href="/john/4-31.htm">He declares to them his zeal for God's glory.</a> 39. <a href="/john/4-39.htm">Many Samaritans believe on him.</a> 43. <a href="/john/4-43.htm">He departs into Galilee, and heals the ruler's son that lay sick at Capernaum.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/john/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/john/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/john/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>But a time is coming and has now come This phrase indicates a pivotal moment in redemptive history. Jesus speaks of a transition from the old covenant, centered on physical locations and rituals, to the new covenant, which emphasizes spiritual worship. This reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as <a href="/jeremiah/31-31.htm">Jeremiah 31:31-34</a>, which foretold a new covenant where God's law would be written on hearts rather than stone.when the true worshipers The term "true worshipers" distinguishes those who genuinely seek God from those who merely follow religious rituals. This echoes the call for sincerity in worship found throughout the Old Testament, such as in <a href="/isaiah/29-13.htm">Isaiah 29:13</a>, where God criticizes those who honor Him with their lips while their hearts are far from Him.will worship the Father The focus on "the Father" highlights the personal and relational nature of worship in the new covenant. This relationship is made possible through Jesus Christ, who reveals the Father (<a href="/john/1-18.htm">John 1:18</a>) and provides access to Him (<a href="/john/14-6.htm">John 14:6</a>). It underscores the shift from a distant, ritualistic worship to an intimate, familial relationship with God.in spirit and in truth Worship "in spirit" refers to the inner, heartfelt devotion that transcends physical locations and rituals. It aligns with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to connect with God on a spiritual level (<a href="/romans/8-9.htm">Romans 8:9-16</a>). "In truth" emphasizes worship that is grounded in the reality of who God is, as revealed in Scripture and through Jesus Christ, who is the truth (<a href="/john/14-6.htm">John 14:6</a>). This dual emphasis ensures that worship is both sincere and doctrinally sound.for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him This phrase reveals God's active desire for genuine worshipers. It reflects His initiative in salvation, as He draws people to Himself (<a href="/john/6-44.htm">John 6:44</a>). The idea of God seeking worshipers underscores His love and grace, as He desires a relationship with humanity. It also connects to the broader biblical narrative of God calling a people for Himself, as seen in passages like <a href="/1_peter/2-9.htm">1 Peter 2:9</a>.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> The central figure in this passage, Jesus is speaking to the Samaritan woman at the well, revealing profound truths about worship and the nature of God. 2. <a href="/topical/s/samaritan_woman.htm">Samaritan Woman</a> A woman from Samaria who encounters Jesus at Jacob's well. Her conversation with Jesus leads to a revelation about true worship. 3. <a href="/topical/j/jacob's_well.htm">Jacob's Well</a> The location where Jesus meets the Samaritan woman. It is a significant historical and religious site for both Jews and Samaritans. 4. <a href="/topical/s/samaria.htm">Samaria</a> The region where this encounter takes place, highlighting the cultural and religious tensions between Jews and Samaritans. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_father.htm">The Father</a> Refers to God, whom Jesus describes as seeking true worshipers who worship in spirit and truth.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/true_worship_defined.htm">True Worship Defined</a> True worship is not confined to a specific location or ritual but is characterized by worshiping in spirit and truth. This means engaging with God sincerely and authentically, guided by the Holy Spirit. <a href="/topical/g/god's_desire_for_worshipers.htm">God's Desire for Worshipers</a> God actively seeks those who will worship Him in spirit and truth. This highlights the relational aspect of worship, where God desires a genuine connection with His people. <a href="/topical/s/spirit_and_truth.htm">Spirit and Truth</a> Worshiping in spirit involves the heart and soul, empowered by the Holy Spirit, while worshiping in truth involves aligning with the truth of God's Word and the reality of who He is. <a href="/topical/c/cultural_and_religious_barriers.htm">Cultural and Religious Barriers</a> Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman breaks down cultural and religious barriers, teaching us that true worship transcends human divisions. <a href="/topical/p/personal_reflection.htm">Personal Reflection</a> Believers are encouraged to examine their own worship practices, ensuring they are rooted in spirit and truth rather than mere tradition or obligation.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_john_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from John 4</a> <a href="/q/kierkegaard's_key_ideas_and_works.htm">What are Kierkegaard's key ideas and notable works?</a> <a href="/q/what's_the_church's_worship_purpose.htm">What is the church's purpose in worship?</a> <a href="/q/how_is_jesus_both_god_and_man.htm">What defines a true worshiper?</a> <a href="/q/what_are_worship_styles.htm">What are the different styles of worship?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/john/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(23) But the hour cometh.--Better, as in <a href="/john/4-21.htm" title="Jesus said to her, Woman, believe me, the hour comes, when you shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.">John 4:21</a>, but there cometh an hour. He adds to this thought, what He could not add to the previous one, "and now is." Local worship was not yet giving way to spiritual; but a band of true worshippers was being gathered, and some were then following Him.The true worshippers.--Her distinction of place was of the accident, but the essence was the nature of the worship. What could any worship be to a God who saw the impurity of the heart, and the contradiction of thought and word? What could she know of the worship of which she speaks? Yes; and the temple at Jerusalem was a house of merchandise, instead of one of prayer; what did priest and Levite, scribe and Pharisee, know of true worship?In spirit and in truth.--The link between human nature and the divine is in the human spirit, which is the shrine of the Holy Spirit (<a href="/1_corinthians/6-19.htm" title="What? know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your own?">1Corinthians 6:19</a>). All true approach to God must therefore be in spirit. (Comp. <a href="/romans/1-9.htm" title="For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;">Romans 1:9</a>, and <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm" title="Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;">Ephesians 6:18</a>.) Place, and time, and words, and postures, and sounds, and all things from without, are important only in so far as they aid in abstraction from the sensible world, and in elevation of the spirit within. The moment they distract they hinder true worship. Ritual cannot be discussed without risk of spiritual loss. The words "in truth," already expressed in true worshippers, and repeated in the following verse, are more than "truly." Sincerity is not a test of acceptable worship, though it is a requisite. Bigots sincerely think they do God's service. Worship which is "in truth" is in harmony with the nature of the God whom we worship. To think of God in hearing His truth, to kindle the soul by hymns of praise, to realise the earlier portions of collects and prayers which utter His attributes, are necessary to the truth of the petitions, and thanksgivings, and adorations of worship. The model prayer of Christianity brings home to the heart the Fatherhood of God in its first words.For the Father seeketh such to worship him.--Better, for such the Father also seeketh His worshippers to be. The word "such," i.e., of this character, is emphatic. The "also" expresses that the worship, on the part of the true worshippers, is in accordance with the divine will: "the Father also (on His part) . . ." The reader will not fail to note the emphasis in this reply on the word "Father" (<a href="/john/4-21.htm" title="Jesus said to her, Woman, believe me, the hour comes, when you shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.">John 4:21</a> and twice in this verse). This name of God, which we teach children to lisp in earliest years, came to her, it may be, now for the first time. He is not Vengeance to be appeased, nor Power to be dreaded, but Love to be received. (Comp. Note on <a href="/john/3-16.htm" title="For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.">John 3:16</a>.) It is when men learn to think of God as Father that merely local and material worship must cease. The universal desire and practice of worship is the witness to a universal object of worship. The yearning of the human spirit is that of a child seeking the author of his being. The seeking is not human only. The Father also seeketh His child, and seeth him when he is a great way off (<a href="/luke/15-20.htm" title="And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.">Luke 15:20</a>). . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/john/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 23. - But the hour cometh, and now is - already the day has dawned, the new conception is breaking like "awful rose of dawn" upon the minds of some - when the veritable worshippers - those who answer to the idea of worshippers, those who actually draw near to the Father in living fellowship and affectionate appreciation of his eternal Name - shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth. An old misreading of this text, accepted by some Fathers, and based upon the idea expressed in <a href="/john/16-13.htm">John 16:13</a>, has found expression in the Sinaitic Codex, "in the spirit of the truth." But "spirit" here does not refer to the Holy Spirit, but to the spirit of man - that part of man's constitution through which he most especially bears the image of God, and with which the Divine Spirit deals, and in which he dwells (<a href="/romans/8-26.htm">Romans 8:26</a>). The worship in spirit is worship contrasted with all mere carnal concomitants, all mere shadows of the good things to come, all mere ritual, all specialties of place, or time, or sacrament, or order. It need not be in despite of a genuine reverence for days, or seasons, or postures, or washings, but in absolute independence of them, and they, without this, will be actually valueless. And in truth; i.e. as dealing with reality, the adequate and veracious expression of genuine desires and veritable emotions; καὶ γὰρ, nam et (ver. 9). For indeed also the Father seeketh such to be his worshippers. Luthardt and Meyer differ as to the emphasis. Meyer insists that the καὶ γάρ lays stress on the word which immediately follows, and he refers to <a href="/1_corinthians/14-8.htm">1 Corinthians 14:8</a> as not contradicting the rule. He would render, "For the Father also on his part seeketh," etc. Luthardt says that the new thought is to be found in ζητεῖ, and therefore upon this the emphasis is laid. Westcott, by many passages, such as <a href="/matthew/8-9.htm">Matthew 8:9</a>; <a href="/matthew/26-73.htm">Matthew 26:73</a>; <a href="/mark/10-45.htm">Mark 10:45</a>; <a href="/luke/6-32.htm">Luke 6:32</a>, etc., urges that καὶ γὰρ "alleges a reason which is assumed to be conclusive from the nature of the case." The whole sentence is therefore covered by the expression, "For the Father also on his part seeketh those as worshippers of him who worship him in spirit and in truth." A slight contrast is felt between the regimen of προσκυνεῖν with accusative, here again introduced, following upon that with dative in the first clause. Moulton would render the first clause, "offer worship to the Father," and the second by "worship him." The Father is now seeking, by the ministry of his Son, by the gift of his Spirit, for those who approach him with deeply felt need and true affection, in spirit, not in ceremony, in truth, not in hypocritical or heartless profession. This is another indication of the high truth taught in the prologue (<a href="/john/1-4.htm">John 1:4, 9</a>; <a href="/john/3-21.htm">John 3:21</a>; <a href="/john/18-38.htm">John 18:38</a>, see notes) that there are vast differences among men, even anterior to their reception of the perfect revelation of the Father's heart in Christ Jesus. "The life is the light of men." There are those who "do the truth" and are "of the truth," who "worship God in spirit and in truth." The whole gospel dispensation is a search for these. <a href="/commentaries/john/4-23.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. a time ὥρα (hōra) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5610.htm">Strong's 5610: </a> Apparently a primary word; an 'hour'. is coming ἔρχεται (erchetai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2064.htm">Strong's 2064: </a> To come, go. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. {has} now νῦν (nyn) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3568.htm">Strong's 3568: </a> A primary particle of present time; 'now'; also as noun or adjective present or immediate. come ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. when ὅτε (hote) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3753.htm">Strong's 3753: </a> When, at which time. From hos and te; at which too, i.e. When. the οἱ (hoi) Article - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. TRUE ἀληθινοὶ (alēthinoi) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_228.htm">Strong's 228: </a> True (lit: made of truth), real, genuine. From alethes; truthful. worshipers προσκυνηταὶ (proskynētai) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4353.htm">Strong's 4353: </a> A worshipper. From proskuneo; an adorer. will worship προσκυνήσουσιν (proskynēsousin) Verb - Future Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4352.htm">Strong's 4352: </a> From pros and a probable derivative of kuon; to fawn or crouch to, i.e. prostrate oneself in homage. the τῷ (tō) Article - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Father Πατρὶ (Patri) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3962.htm">Strong's 3962: </a> Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a 'father'. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. spirit πνεύματι (pneumati) Noun - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4151.htm">Strong's 4151: </a> Wind, breath, spirit. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. in truth, ἀληθείᾳ (alētheia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_225.htm">Strong's 225: </a> From alethes; truth. for γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. the ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Father Πατὴρ (Patēr) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3962.htm">Strong's 3962: </a> Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a 'father'. is seeking ζητεῖ (zētei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2212.htm">Strong's 2212: </a> To seek, search for, desire, require, demand. Of uncertain affinity; to seek; specially, to worship, or to plot. such τοιούτους (toioutous) Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5108.htm">Strong's 5108: </a> (including the other inflections); from toi and houtos; truly this, i.e. Of this sort (to denote character or individuality). as these τοὺς (tous) Article - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. to worship προσκυνοῦντας (proskynountas) Verb - Present Participle Active - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4352.htm">Strong's 4352: </a> From pros and a probable derivative of kuon; to fawn or crouch to, i.e. prostrate oneself in homage. Him. αὐτόν (auton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/john/4-23.htm">John 4:23 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/john/4-23.htm">NT Gospels: John 4:23 But the hour comes and now (Jhn Jo Jn) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/john/4-22.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="John 4:22"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="John 4:22" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/john/4-24.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="John 4:24"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="John 4:24" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>