John 4:22 Meaning and Explanation
“Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus speaks plainly: Samaritan worship has lost knowledge it needs, for God's salvation comes through the Jews.
What Does John 4:22 Mean?
Samaria kept only the five books of Moses, setting aside the prophets, the psalms, and centuries of God's self-disclosure — ye worship ye know not what. We know, Jesus says, standing with his own people: the covenants and the promises run through Israel, and the Messiah himself comes of Israel (Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 2:3; Romans 9:4-5).
Kindness here does not pretend that every approach to God knows him equally well; love tells the truth. Yet the truth told is generous: salvation is of the Jews — from them, not only for them. The Savior born of Israel sits on a Samaritan well, offering Israel's richest treasure to Israel's oldest rivals. Salvation has an address of origin, and a destination as wide as the world (v. 42).
John 4:22 in the Original Language
soteria (σωτηρία), 'salvation' -- rescue and deliverance; being made safe and whole.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 4:22
What does John 4:22 mean?
Jesus speaks plainly: Samaritan worship has lost knowledge it needs, for God's salvation comes through the Jews.