Commentators · Puritans and the 1700s

Matthew Henry

1662-1714 · English Nonconformist (Presbyterian)

Presbyterian minister in Chester and later Hackney, near London.

His Exposition of the Old and New Testaments, written for ordinary readers, has stayed in print for three centuries; he finished it as far as Acts before his death, and other ministers completed it.

This biography is a draft awaiting review.

Works in Logia

Commentary on the Whole Bible, Volume V (Matthew to John)Matthew Henry, Exposition of the Old and New Testaments

What Matthew Henry says, verse by verse

John 1

John 1:1–2
2. His co-existence with the Father: The Word was with God, and the Word was God. Let none say that when we invite them to Christ we would draw them from God, for Christ…
John 1:1 · 2 passages
I. Of whom he speaks—The Word—ho logos. This is an idiom peculiar to John's writings. See 1 John i. 1; v. 7; Rev. xix. 13. Yet some think that Christ is meant by the…
John 1:3
3. His agency in making the world, v. 3. This is here, (1.) Expressly asserted: All things were made by him. He was with God, not only so as to be acquainted with the…
John 1:4
4. The original of life and light that is in him: In him was life, v. 4. This further proves that he is God, and every way qualified for his undertaking; for, (1.) He…
John 1:5 · 2 passages
5. The manifestation of him to the children of men. It might be objected, If this eternal Word was all in all thus in the creation of the world, whence is it that he…
John 1:6
1. We are here told concerning him, in general, that he was a man sent of God. The evangelist had said concerning Jesus Christ that he was with God and that he was God;…
John 1:7
2. We are here told what his office and business were (v. 7): The same came for a witness, an eye-witness, a leading witness. He came eis martyrian—for a testimony. The legal institutions had…
John 1:8
3. We are here cautioned not to mistake him for the light who only came to bear witness to it (v. 8): He was not that light that was expected and promised, but only…
John 1:9
1. Christ was the true Light (v. 9); not as if John Baptist were a false light, but, in comparison with Christ, he was a very small light. Christ is the great light that…
John 1:10
... Now observe here, (1.) What reason Christ had to expect the most affectionate and respectful welcome possible in this world; for the world was made by him. Therefore he came to save a…
John 1:11 · 2 passages
3. He came to his own (v. 11); not only to the world, which was his own, but to the people of Israel, that were peculiarly his own above all people; of them he…
John 1:12 · 2 passages
(2.) That yet there was a remnant who owned him, and were faithful to him. Though his own received him not, yet there were those that received him (v. 12): But as many as…
John 1:13
... Now here we have an account of the original of this new birth. 1. Negatively. (1.) It is not propagated by natural generation from our parents. It is not of blood, nor of…
John 1:14 · 4 passages
[1.] The word was made flesh. Forasmuch as the children, who were to become the sons of God, were partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same, Heb.…
John 1:15 · 2 passages
2. What his testimony was. He appeals to what he had said at the beginning of his ministry, when he had directed them to expect one that should come after him, whose forerunner he…
John 1:16 · 2 passages
1. We have received grace for grace. Our receivings by Christ are all summed up in this one word, grace; we have received kai charin—even grace, so great a gift, so rich, so invaluable;…
John 1:17
2. We have received grace and truth, v. 17. He had said (v. 14) that Christ was full of grace and truth; now here he says that by him grace and truth came to…
John 1:18 · 2 passages
(1.) The insufficiency of all other discoveries: No man hath seen God at any time. This intimates, [1.] That the nature of God being spiritual, he is invisible to bodily eyes, he is a…
John 1:19
I. Who they were that sent to him, and who they were that were sent. 1. They that sent to him were the Jews at Jerusalem, the great sanhedrim or high-commission court, which sat…
John 1:20
... [1.] John disowns himself to be the Christ (v. 20): He said, I am not the Christ, who was now expected and waited for. Note, The ministers of Christ must remember that they…
John 1:21 · 2 passages
... [2.] He disowns himself to be Elias, v. 21. The Jews expected the person of Elias to return from heaven, and to live among them, and promised themselves great things from it. Hearing…
John 1:22–23
(2.) Affirmatively. The committee that was sent to examine him pressed for a positive answer (v. 22), urging the authority of those that sent them, which they expected he should pay a deference to:…
John 1:23
[3.] He gives such an account of himself as might be profitable to them, and might excite and awaken them to hearken to him; for he was the voice (see Isa. xl. 3), a…
John 1:25
(1.) The enquiry which the committee made about it: Why baptizest thou, if thou be not the Christ, nor Elias, nor that prophet? v. 25. [1.] They readily apprehended baptism to be fitly and…
John 1:26
[1.] He owned himself to be only the minister of the outward sign: "I baptize with water, and that is all; I am no more, and do no more, than what you see; I…
John 1:27
... Secondly, He tells them of Christ's preference above himself: He comes after me, and yet is preferred before me. This he had said before; he adds here, "Whose shoe-latchet I am not worthy…
John 1:28
Lastly, Notice is taken of the place where all this was done: In Bethabara beyond Jordan, v. 28. Bethabara signifies the house of passage; some think it was the very place where Israel passed…
John 1:29 · 2 passages
1. That he is the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world, v. 29. Let us learn here,
John 1:30
2. That this was he of whom he had spoken before (v. 30, 31): This is he, this person whom I now point at, you see where he stands, this is he of whom…
John 1:31 · 2 passages
... (4.) He protests against any confederacy or combination with this Jesus: And I knew him not. Though there was some relation between them (Elisabeth was cousin to the virgin Mary), yet there was…
John 1:32
3. That this was he upon whom the Spirit descended from heaven like a dove. For the confirming of his testimony concerning Christ, he here vouches the extraordinary appearance at his baptism, in which…
John 1:33
(2.) That he was told to expect it, which very much corroborates the proof. It was not John's bare conjecture, that surely he on whom he saw the Spirit descending was the Son of…
John 1:34
4. That he is the Son of God. This is the conclusion of John's testimony, that in which all the particulars centre, as the quod erat demonstrandum—the fact to be demonstrated (v. 34): I…
John 1:35–36
II. Here is John's testimony to Christ, the next day after, v. 35, 36. Where observe, 1. He took every opportunity that offered itself to lead people to Christ: John stood looking upon Jesus…
John 1:37
I. Andrew and another with him were the two that John Baptist had directed to Christ, v. 37. Who the other was we are not told; some think that it was Thomas, comparing ch.…
John 1:38 · 2 passages
2. The kind notice Christ took of them, v. 38. They came behind him; but, though he had his back towards them, he was soon aware of them, and turned, and saw them following.…
John 1:39 · 2 passages
4. The courteous invitation Christ gave them to his lodgings: He saith unto them, Come and see. Thus should good desires towards Christ and communion with him be countenanced. (1.) He invites them to…
John 1:40–41
II. Andrew brought his brother Peter to Christ. If Peter had been the first-born of Christ's disciples, the papists would have made a noise with it: he did indeed afterwards come to be more…
John 1:42 · 3 passages
(3.) He brought him to Jesus; would not undertake to instruct him himself, but brought him to the fountain-head, persuaded him to come to Christ and introduced him. Now this was, [1.] An instance…
John 1:43–44
I. Philip was called immediately by Christ himself, not as Andrew, who was directed to Christ by John, or Peter, who was invited by his brother. God has various methods of bringing his chosen…
John 1:45
(1.) The joyful news that Philip brought to Nathanael, v. 45. As Andrew before, so Philip here, having got some knowledge of Christ himself, rests not till he has made manifest the savour of…
John 1:46 · 2 passages
(2.) The objection which Nathanael made against this, Can any good thing come out of Nazareth? v. 46. Here, [1.] His caution was commendable, that he did not lightly assent to every thing that…
John 1:47 · 2 passages
(1.) Our Lord Jesus bore a very honourable testimony to Nathanael's integrity: Jesus saw him coming, and met him with favourable encouragement; he said of him to those about him, Nathanael himself being within…
John 1:48 · 2 passages
(2.) Nathanael is much surprised at this, upon which Christ gives him a further proof of his omnisciency, and a kind memorial of his former devotion.
John 1:49
(3.) Nathanael hereby obtained a full assurance of faith in Jesus Christ, expressed in that noble acknowledgment (v. 49): Rabbi, thou art the Son of God, thou art the king of Israel; that is,…
John 1:50
(4.) Christ hereupon raises the hopes and expectations of Nathanael to something further and greater than all this, v. 50, 51. Christ is very tender of young converts, and will encourage good beginnings, though…
John 1:51 · 3 passages
Secondly, In particular: "Not thou only, but you, all you my disciples, whose faith this is intended for the confirmation of, you shall see heaven opened;" this is more than telling Nathanael of his…

John 2

John 2:1–2
3. The occasion itself was a marriage; probably one or both of the parties were akin to our Lord Jesus. The mother of Jesus is said to be there, and not to be called,…
John 2:1
1. The time: the third day after he came into Galilee. The evangelist keeps a journal of occurrences, for no day passed without something extraordinary done or said. Our Master filled up his time…
John 2:2
(1.) There was a marriage, and Jesus was called. Note, [1.] It is very desirable, when there is a marriage, to have Jesus Christ present at it; to have his spiritual gracious presence, to…
John 2:3 · 2 passages
1. They wanted wine, v. 3. (1.) There was want at a feast; though much was provided, yet all was spent. While we are in this world we sometimes find ourselves in straits, even…
John 2:4 · 3 passages
(2.) He gave her a reprimand for it, for he saw more amiss in it than we do, else he had not treated it thus.—Here is,
John 2:5
(3.) Notwithstanding this, she encouraged herself with expectations that he would help her friends in this strait, for she bade the servants observe his orders, v. 5. [1.] She took the reproof very submissively,…
John 2:6
[2.] The circumstances of it magnified it and freed it from all suspicion of cheat or collusion; for,
John 2:7–8
Secondly, The water-pots were filled up to the brim by the servants at Christ's word, v. 7. As Moses, the servant of the Lord, when God bade him, went to the rock, to draw…
John 2:8
b. Our Lord Jesus directed the servants, (a.) To draw it out; not to let it alone in the vessel, to be admired, but to draw it out, to be drank. Note, [a.] Christ's…
John 2:9–10
Fourthly, The wine which was thus miraculously provided was of the best and richest kind, which was acknowledged by the governor of the feast; and that it was really so, and not his fancy,…
John 2:9
(4.) Christ did at length miraculously supply them; for he is often better than his word, but never worse.
John 2:10
... (2.) This bridegroom obliged his friends with a reserve of the best wine for the grace-cup: Thou hast kept the good wine until now; not knowing to whom they were indebted for this…
John 2:11
III. In the conclusion of this story (v. 11) we are told, 1. That this was the beginning of miracles which Jesus did. Many miracles had been wrought concerning him at his birth and…
John 2:12 · 2 passages
I. The short visit Christ made to Capernaum, v. 12. It was a large and populous city, about a day's journey from Cana; it is called his own city (Matt. ix. 1), because he…
John 2:13
II. The passover he kept at Jerusalem; it is the first after his baptism, and the evangelist takes notice of all the passovers he kept henceforward, which were four in all, the fourth that…
John 2:14 · 2 passages
1. He purged the temple, v. 14-17. Observe here,
John 2:15
[2.] What course our Lord took to purge out those corruptions. He had seen these in the temple formerly, when he was in a private station; but never went about to drive them out…
John 2:16 · 2 passages
Thirdly, He said to them that sold doves (sacrifices for the poor), Take these things hence. The doves, though they took up less room, and were a less nuisance than the oxen and sheep,…
John 2:17 · 2 passages
Fifthly, Here is the remark which his disciples made upon it (v. 17): They remembered that it was written, The Zeal of thine house hath eaten me up. They were somewhat surprised at first…
John 2:18
(1.) Their demand of a sign: Then answered the Jews, that is the multitude of the people, with their leaders. Being Jews, they should rather have stood by him, and assisted him to vindicate…
John 2:19 · 3 passages
(2.) Christ's answer to this demand, v. 19. He did not immediately work a miracle to convince them, but gave them a sign in something to come, the truth of which must appear by…
John 2:20
(3.) Their cavil at this answer: "Forty and six years was this temple in building, v. 20. Temple work was always slow work, and canst thou make such quick work of it?" Now here,…
John 2:21
(4.) A vindication of Christ's answer from their cavil. The difficulty is soon solved by explaining the terms: He spoke of the temple of his body, v. 21. Though Christ had discovered a great…
John 2:22 · 2 passages
(5.) A reflection which the disciples made upon this, long after, inserted here, to illustrate the story (v. 22): When he was risen from the dead, some years after, his disciples remembered that he…
John 2:23
We have here an account of the success, the poor success, of Christ's preaching and miracles at Jerusalem, while he kept the passover there. Observe,
John 2:24
III. That yet Jesus did not commit himself unto them (v. 24): ouk episteuen heauton autois—He did not trust himself with them. It is the same word that is used for believing in him.…
John 2:25
IV. That the reason why he did not commit himself to them was because he knew them (v. 25), knew the wickedness of some and the weakness of others. The evangelist takes this occasion…

John 3

John 3:1
I. Who this Nicodemus was. Not many mighty and noble are called; yet some are, and here was one. Not many of the rulers, or of the Pharisees; yet. 1. This was a man…
John 3:2 · 4 passages
1. When he came: He came to Jesus by night. Observe, (1.) He made a private and particular address to Christ, and did not think it enough to hear his public discourses. He resolved…
John 3:3 · 3 passages
(1.) As pertinently answered to Nicodemus's address. Jesus answered, v. 3. This answer was wither, [1.] A rebuke of what he saw defective in the address of Nicodemus. It was not enough for him…
John 3:4
a. It is objected against by Nicodemus (v. 4): How can a man be born when he is old, old as I am: geron on—being an old man? Can he enter the second time…
John 3:5 · 2 passages
(a.) To repeat and confirm what he had said (v. 5): "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, the very same that I said before." Note, The word of God is not yea and nay,…
John 3:6
[b.] The nature of this change, and what that is which is wrought; it is spirit, v. 6. Those that are regenerated are made spiritual, and refined from the dross and dregs of sensuality.…
John 3:7
... Secondly, Christ makes it further necessary, by his own word: Marvel not that I said unto thee, You must be born again, v. 7. 1. Christ hath said it, and as he himself…
John 3:8
... Secondly, It is compared to wind: The wind bloweth where it listeth, so is every one that is born of the Spirit, v. 8. The same word (pneuma) signifies both the wind and…
John 3:9
(1.) The objection which Nicodemus still made (v. 9): How can these things be? Christ's explication of the doctrine of the necessity of regeneration, it should seem, made it never the clearer to him.…
John 3:10
(2.) The reproof which Christ gave him for his dulness and ignorance: "Art thou a master in Israel, Didaskalos—a teacher, a tutor, one who sits in Moses's chair, and yet not only unacquainted with…
John 3:11
[1.] That the truths Christ taught were very certain and what we may venture upon (v. 11): We speak that we do know. We; whom does he mean besides himself? Some understand it of…
John 3:12
[2.] The truths Christ taught, though communicated in language and expressions borrowed from common and earthly things, yet in their own nature were most sublime and heavenly; this is intimated, v. 12: "If I…
John 3:13 · 2 passages
[3.] Our Lord Jesus, and he alone, was fit to reveal to us a doctrine thus certain, thus sublime: No man hath ascended up into heaven but he, v. 13.
John 3:14 · 2 passages
[1.] Jesus Christ came to save us by healing us, as the children of Israel that were stung with fiery serpents were cured and lived by looking up to the brazen serpent; we have…
John 3:15
Thirdly, The way of applying this remedy, and that is by believing, which plainly alludes to the Israelites' looking up to the brazen serpent, in order to their being healed by it. If any…
John 3:16 · 3 passages
[2.] Jesus Christ came to save us by pardoning us, that we might not die by the sentence of the law, v. 16, 17. Here is gospel indeed, good news, the best that ever…
John 3:17 · 2 passages
Secondly, Here is God's design in sending hi Son into the world: it was that the world through him might be saved. He came into the world with salvation in his eye, with salvation…
John 3:18 · 2 passages
[3.] From all this is inferred the happiness of true believers: He that believeth on him is not condemned, v. 18. Though he has been a sinner, a great sinner, and stands convicted (habes…
John 3:19 · 2 passages
(2.) Read also the doom of those that would not so much as know him, v. 19. Many inquisitive people had knowledge of Christ and his doctrine and miracles, but they were prejudiced against…
John 3:20
First, It is not strange if those that do evil, and resolve to persist in it, hate the light of Christ's gospel; for it is a common observation that every one that doeth evil…
John 3:21
Secondly, On the other hand, upright hearts, that approve themselves to God in their integrity, bid this light welcome (v. 21): He that doeth truth cometh to the light. It seems, then, that though…
John 3:22 · 2 passages
In these verses we have,
John 3:23–24
3. That thither people came to him and were baptized. Though they did not come in such vast crowds as they did when he first appeared, yet now he was not without encouragement, but…
John 3:23 · 2 passages
II. John's continuance in his work, as long as his opportunities lasted, v. 23, 24. Here we are told,
John 3:25
III. A contest between John's disciples and the Jews about purifying, v. 25. See how the gospel of Christ came not to send peace upon earth, but division. Observe, 1. Who were the disputants:…
John 3:26
IV. A complaint which John's disciples made to their master concerning Christ and his baptizing, v. 26. They, being nonplussed by the fore-mentioned objection, and probably ruffled and put into a heat by it,…
John 3:27
1. John here abases himself in comparison with Christ, v. 27-30. The more others magnify us, the more we must humble ourselves, and fortify ourselves against the temptation of flattery and applause, and the…
John 3:28
(2.) John appeals to the testimony he had formerly given concerning Christ (v. 28): You can bear me witness that I said, again and again, I am not the Christ, but I am sent…
John 3:29 · 2 passages
(3.) John professes the great satisfaction he had in the advancement of Christ and his interest. He was so far from regretting it, as his disciples did, that he rejoiced in it. This he…
John 3:30
(4.) He owns it highly fit and necessary that the reputation and interest of Christ should be advanced, and his own diminished (v. 30): He must increase, but I must decrease. If they grieve…
John 3:31–32
(2.) Concerning the excellency and certainty of his doctrine. His disciples were displeased that Christ's preaching was admired, and attended upon, more than his; but he tells them that there was reason enough for…
John 3:31
(1.) He instructs them concerning the dignity of Christ's person (v. 31): He that cometh from above, that cometh from heaven, is above all. Here, [1.] He supposes his divine origin, that he came…
John 3:32 · 2 passages
First, As infallibly sure and certain, and to be entertained accordingly (v. 32): What he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth. See here, 1. Christ's divine knowledge; he testified nothing but what he…
John 3:33
... [2.] He takes occasion to commend the faith of the chosen remnant (v. 33): He that hath received his testimony (and some such there were, though very few) hath set to his seal…
John 3:34
Secondly, It is recommended to us as a divine doctrine; not his own, but his that sent him (v. 34): For he whom God hath sent speaketh the word of God, which he was…
John 3:35 · 2 passages
(3.) Concerning the power and authority he is invested with, which gives him the pre-eminence above all others, and a more excellent name than they.
John 3:36
[3.] He is the object of that faith which is made the great condition of eternal happiness, and herein he has the pre-eminence above all others: He that believeth on the Son, hath life,…

John 4

John 4:1–2
I. That he made disciples; he prevailed with many to embrace his doctrine, and to follow him as a teacher come from God. His ministry was successful, notwithstanding the opposition it met with (Ps.…
John 4:1–3
V. That our Lord Jesus knew very well what informations were given in against him to the Pharisees. It is probable the informers were willing to have their names concealed, and the Pharisees loth…
John 4:1
III. That he made and baptized more disciples than John; not only more than John did at this time, but more than he had done at any time. Christ's converse was more winning than…
John 4:3
2. He departed into Galilee, because he had work to do there, and many friends and fewer enemies. He went to Galilee now, (1.) Because John's ministry had now made way for him there;…
John 4:4
I. Christ's coming into Samaria. He charged his disciples not to enter into any city of the Samaritans (Matt. x. 5), that is, not to preach the gospel, or work miracles; nor did he…
John 4:5–6
2. His baiting place happened to be at a city of Samaria. Now observe,
John 4:6
(2.) The posture of our Lord Jesus at this place: Being wearied with his journey, he sat thus on the well. We have here our Lord Jesus,
John 4:7 · 2 passages
1. They discourse concerning the water, v. 7-15.
John 4:8
[2.] His disciples were gone away into the city to buy meat. Hence learn a lesson, First, Of justice and honesty. The meat Christ ate, he bought and paid for, as Paul, 2 Thess.…
John 4:9 · 2 passages
[2.] The woman, though she does not deny his request, yet quarrels with him because he did not carry on the humour of his own nation (v. 9): How is it? Observe, First, What…
John 4:10 · 3 passages
[3.] Christ takes this occasion to instruct her in divine things: If thou knewest the gift of God, thou wouldst have asked, v. 10. Observe,
John 4:11–12
[4.] The woman objects against and cavils at the gracious intimation which Christ gave her (v. 11, 12): Thou hast nothing to draw with; and besides, Art thou greater than our father Jacob? What…
John 4:12
a. We will suppose the tradition true, that Jacob himself, and his children, and cattle, did drink of this well. And we may observe from it, (a.) The power and providence of God, in…
John 4:13
[5.] Christ answers this cavil, and makes it out that the living water he had to give was far better than that of Jacob's well, v. 13, 14. Though she spoke perversely, Christ did…
John 4:14 · 2 passages
Secondly, That the living waters he would give should yield a lasting satisfaction and bliss, v. 14. Christ's gifts appear most valuable when they come to be compared with the things of this world;…
John 4:15
[6.] The woman (whether in jest or earnest is hard to say) begs of him to give her some of this water (v. 15): Give me this water, that I thirst not. First, Some…
John 4:16–18
2. The next subject of discourse with this woman in concerning her husband, v. 16-18. It was not to let fall the discourse of the water of life that Christ started this, as many…
John 4:16
Observe, (1.) How discreetly and decently Christ introduces this discourse (v. 16): Go, call thy husband, and come hither. Now, [1.] The order Christ gave her had a very good colour: "Call thy husband,…
John 4:17
(2.) How industriously the woman seeks to evade the conviction, and yet insensibly convicts herself, and, ere she is aware, owns her fault; she said, I have no husband. Her saying this intimated no…
John 4:18
(3.) How closely our Lord Jesus brings home the conviction to her conscience. It is probable that he said more than is here recorded, for she thought that he told her all that ever…
John 4:19
(1.) A case of conscience proposed to Christ by the woman, concerning the place of worship, v. 19, 20.
John 4:20 · 2 passages
[2.] The case itself that she propounded concerning the place of religious worship in public. Some think that she started this to shift off further discourse concerning her sin. Controversies in religion often prove…
John 4:21
(2.) Christ's answer to this case of conscience, v. 21, &c. Those that apply themselves to Christ for instruction shall find him meek, to teach the meek his way. Now here,
John 4:22 · 2 passages
[2.] He lays a stress upon other things, in the matter of religious worship. When he made so light of the place of worship he did not intend to lessen our concern about the…
John 4:23–24 · 2 passages
... (b.) In the temper and disposition of the worshippers; and so the true worshippers are good Christians, distinguished from hypocrites; all should, and they will, worship God in spirit and in truth. It…
John 4:23 · 2 passages
Secondly, He describes the evangelical worship which alone God would accept and be well pleased with. Having shown that the place is indifferent, he comes to show what is necessary and essential—that we worship…
John 4:24
c. Because God is a spirit. Christ came to declare God to us (ch. i. 18), and this he has declared concerning him; he declared it to this poor Samaritan woman, for the meanest…
John 4:25 · 2 passages
4. The last subject of discourse with this woman is concerning the Messiah, v. 25, 26. Observe here,
John 4:27
I. The interruption given to this discourse by the disciples' coming. It is probable that much more was said than is recorded; but just when the discourse was brought to a head, when Christ…
John 4:28
The notice which the woman gave to her neighbours of the extraordinary person she had happily met with, v. 28, 29. Observe here,
John 4:29 · 3 passages
2. How she minded her errand to the town, for her heart was upon it. She went into the city, and said to the men, probably the aldermen, the men in authority, whom, it…
John 4:30
(3.) What success she had in this invitation: They went out of the city, and came to him, v. 30. Though it might seem very improbable that a woman of so small a figure,…
John 4:31
1. How Christ expresses the delight which he himself had in his work. His work was to seek and save that which was lost, to go about doing good. Now with this work we…
John 4:32–33
(2.) He made his work his meat and drink. The work he had to do among the Samaritans, the prospect he now had of doing good to many, this was meat and drink to…
John 4:34
... [2.] That the reason why his work was his meat and drink was because it was his Father's work, his Father's will: My meat is to do the will of him that sent…
John 4:35 · 3 passages
2. See here how Christ, having expressed his delight in his work, excites his disciples to diligence in their work; they were workers with him, and therefore should be workers like him, and make…
John 4:36 · 2 passages
(2.) That it was profitable and advantageous work, which they themselves would be gainers by (v. 36): "He that reapeth receiveth wages, and so shall you." Christ has undertaken to pay those well whom…
John 4:37–38 · 2 passages
(3.) That it was easy work, and work that was half done to their hands by those that were gone before them: One soweth, and another reapeth, v. 37, 38. This sometimes denotes a…
John 4:39 · 2 passages
IV. The good effect which this visit Christ made to the Samaritans (en passant) had upon them, and the fruit which was now presently gathered among them, v. 39-42. See what impressions were made…
John 4:40 · 2 passages
(2.) They were brought to court his stay among them (v. 40): When they were come to him they besought him that he would tarry with them. Upon the woman's report, they believed him…
John 4:41
Secondly, We are told what impressions were made upon them by Christ's own word, and his personal converse with them (v. 41, 42); what he said and did there is not related, whether he…
John 4:42 · 2 passages
... 2. That their faith grew. Those who had been wrought upon by the report of the woman now saw cause to say, Now we believe, not because of thy saying, v. 42. Here…
John 4:43–44
1. Whither Christ went; into Galilee, into the country of Galilee, but not to Nazareth, which was strictly his own country. He went among the villages, but declined going to Nazareth, the head city,…
John 4:43
I. Christ's coming into Galilee, v. 43. Though he was as welcome among the Samaritans as he could be any where, and had better success, yet after two days he left them, not so…
John 4:45
2. What entertainment he met with among the Galileans in the country (v. 45): They received him, bade him welcome, and cheerfully attended on his doctrine. Christ and his gospel are not sent in…
John 4:46
3. What city he went to. When he would go to a city, he chose to go to Cana of Galilee, where he had made the water wine (v. 46); thither he went, to…
John 4:47
2. How the petitioner made his application to the physician. Having heard that Jesus was come out of Judea to Galilee, and finding that he did not come towards Capernaum, but turned off towards…
John 4:48
3. The gentle rebuke he met with in this address (v. 48): Jesus said to him, "I see how it is; except you see signs and wonders, you will not believe, as the Samaritans…
John 4:49 · 2 passages
4. His continued importunity in his address (v. 49): Sir, come down ere my child die. Kyrie—Lord; so it should be rendered. In this reply of his we have, (1.) Something that was commendable:…
John 4:50 · 2 passages
5. The answer of peace which Christ gave to his request at last (v. 50): Go thy way, thy son liveth. Christ here gives us an instance, (1.) Of his power, that he not…
John 4:51–53
7. The further confirmation of his faith, by comparing notes with his servants at his return. (1.) His servants met him with the agreeable news of the child's recovery, v. 51. Probably they met…
John 4:52–53
... Two things would help to confirm his faith:—First, That the child's recovery was sudden and not gradual. They name the precise time to an hour: Yesterday, not about, but at the seventh hour,…
John 4:53
8. The happy effect and issue of this. The bringing of the cure to the family brought salvation to it. (1.) The nobleman himself believed. He had before believed the word of Christ, with…
John 4:54
9. Here is the evangelist's remark upon this cure (v. 54); This is the second miracle, referring to ch. ii. 11, where the turning of water into wine is said to be the first;…

John 5

John 5:1
I. The time when this cure was wrought: it was at a feast of the Jews, that is, the passover, for that was the most celebrated feast. Christ, though residing in Galilee, yet went…
John 5:2–4
II. The place where this cure was wrought: at the pool of Bethesda, which had a miraculous healing virtue in it, and is here particularly described, v. 2-4.
John 5:3
4. How it was frequented with sick and cripples (v. 3): In these lay a great multitude of impotent folks. How many are the afflictions of the afflicted in this world! How full of…
John 5:4 · 4 passages
5. What virtue it had for the cure of these impotent folks (v. 4). An angel went down, and troubled the water; and whoso first stepped in was made whole. That this strange virtue…
John 5:5
III. The patient on whom this cure was wrought (v. 5): one that had been infirm thirty-eight years. 1. His disease was grievous: He had an infirmity, a weakness; he had lost the use…
John 5:6 · 2 passages
IV. The cure and the circumstances of it briefly related, v. 6-9.
John 5:7 · 2 passages
4. The poor impotent man takes this opportunity to renew his complaint, and to set forth the misery of his case, which makes his cure the more illustrious: Sir, I have no man to…
John 5:8 · 2 passages
(1.) The word he said: Rise, take up thy bed, v. 8. [1.] He is bidden to rise and walk; a strange command to be given to an impotent man, that had been long…
John 5:9
(2.) The efficacy of this word (v. 9): a divine power went alone with it, and immediately he was made whole, took up his bed, and walked. [1.] He felt the power of Christ's…
John 5:10
(1.) The Jews quarrelled with the man for carrying his bed on the sabbath day, telling him that it was not lawful, v. 10. It does not appear whether they were magistrates, who had…
John 5:11
(2.) The man justified himself in what he did by a warrant that would bear him out, v. 11. "I do not do it in contempt of the law and the sabbath, but in…
John 5:12
(3.) The Jews enquired further who it was that gave him this warrant (v. 12): What man is that? Observe, How industriously they overlooked that which might be a ground of their faith in…
John 5:13 · 2 passages
(4.) The poor man was unable to give them any account of him: He wist not who he was, v. 13.
John 5:14 · 3 passages
2. What passed between him and our Lord Jesus at their next interview, v. 14. Observe here,
John 5:15
VI. Now, after this interview between Christ and his patient, observe in the two following verses, 1. The notice which the poor simple man gave to the Jews concerning Christ, v. 15. He told…
John 5:17 · 2 passages
I. The doctrine laid down, by which he justified what he did on the sabbath day (v. 17): He answered them. This supposes that he had something laid to his charge: or what they…
John 5:18
II. The offence that was taken at his doctrine (v. 18): The Jews sought the more to kill him. His defence was made his offence, as if by justifying himself he had made bad…
John 5:19 · 3 passages
1. In general. He is one with the Father in all he does as Mediator, and there was a perfectly good understanding between them in the whole matter. It is ushered in with a…
John 5:20 · 2 passages
[2.] That the Father communicates to the Son, v. 20. Observe,
John 5:21
(1.) Observe what is here said concerning the Mediator's power to raise the dead and give life. See [1.] His authority to do it (v. 21): As the Father raiseth up the dead, so…
John 5:22–24
(2.) Observe what is here said concerning the Mediator's authority to execute judgment, v. 22-24, 27. As he has an almighty power, so he has a sovereign jurisdiction; and who so fit to preside…
John 5:22 · 2 passages
[1.] Christ's commission or delegation to the office of a judge, which is twice spoken of here (v. 22): He hath committed all judgment to the Son; and again (v. 27): he hath given…
John 5:23 · 2 passages
Secondly, That all men should honour the Son, v. 23. The honouring of Jesus Christ is here spoken of as God's great design (the Son intended to glorify the Father, and therefore the Father…
John 5:24 · 2 passages
[3.] Here is the rule by which the Son goes in executing this commission, so those words seem to come in (v. 24): He that heareth and believeth hath everlasting life. Here we have…
John 5:25 · 2 passages
First, A resurrection that now is (v. 29), a resurrection from the death of sin to the life of righteousness, by the power of Christ's grace. The hour is coming, and now is. It…
John 5:26
[2.] His ability to do it. Therefore he has power to quicken whom he will as the Father does, because he has life in himself, as the Father has, v. 26. First, It is…
John 5:27 · 2 passages
Thirdly, He has given him authority to execute judgment also, v. 27. Observe, 1. What the authority is which our Redeemer is invested with: An authority to execute judgment; he has not only a…
John 5:28–29 · 4 passages
Secondly, A resurrection yet to come; this is spoken of, v. 28, 29, introduced with, "Marvel not at this, which I have said of the first resurrection, do not reject it as incredible and…
John 5:30 · 2 passages
First, By the Father's wisdom: I can of my ownself do nothing, nothing without the Father, but as I hear I judge, as he had said before (v. 19), The Son can do nothing…
John 5:31
I. He sets aside his own testimony of himself (v. 31): "If I bear witness of myself, though it is infallibly true (ch. viii. 14), yet, according to the common rule of judgment among…
John 5:32
1. The Father himself bore testimony to him (v. 32): There is another that beareth witness. I take this to be meant of God the Father, for Christ mentions his testimony with his own…
John 5:33
2. John Baptist witnessed to Christ, v. 33, &c. John came to bear witness of the light (ch. i. 7); his business was to prepare his way, and direct people to him: Behold the…
John 5:34
[1.] That it was a testimony ex abundanti—more than he needed to vouch (v. 34): I receive not testimony from man. Though Christ saw fit to quote John's testimony, it was with a protestation…
John 5:35 · 2 passages
[2.] That it was a testimony ad hominem—to the man, because John Baptist was one whom they had a respect for (v. 35): He was a light among you.
John 5:36 · 2 passages
3. Christ's own works witnessed to him (v. 36): I have a testimony greater than that of John; for if we believe the witness of men sent of God, as John was, the witness…
John 5:37 · 2 passages
4. He produces, more fully than before, his Father's testimony concerning him (v. 37): The Father that sent me hath borne witness of me. The prince is not accustomed to follow his ambassador himself,…
John 5:38 · 2 passages
... But, First, The word of God was not in them; it was among them, in their country, in their hands, but not in them, in their hearts; not ruling in their souls, but…
John 5:39 · 4 passages
5. The last witness he calls is the Old Testament, which witnessed of him, and to it he appeals (v. 39, &c.): Search the scriptures, ereunate.
John 5:40
[1.] Their neglect of him and his doctrine: "You will not come tome, that you might have life, v. 40. You search the scriptures, you believe the prophets, who you cannot but see testify…
John 5:41
... Those words (v. 41), I receive not honour from men, come in a parenthesis, to obviate an objection against him, as if he sought his own glory, and made himself the head of…
John 5:42 · 2 passages
[2.] Their want of the love of God (v. 42): "I know you very well, that you have not the love of God in you. Why should I wonder that you do not come…
John 5:43
[3.] Another crime charged upon them is their readiness to entertain false Christs and false prophets, while they obstinately opposed him who was the true Messias (v. 43): I am come in my Father's…
John 5:44 · 3 passages
First, Their ambition of worldly honour. Christ despised it, v. 41. They set their hearts upon it: You receive honour one of another; that is, "You look for a Messiah in outward pomp, and…
John 5:45 · 2 passages
6. The last witness here called is Moses, v. 45, &c. The Jews had a great veneration for Moses, and valued themselves upon their being the disciples of Moses, and pretended to adhere to…
John 5:46–47 · 2 passages
(2.) That Moses was a witness for Christ and to his doctrine (v. 46, 47): He wrote of me. Moses did particularly prophesy of Christ, as the Seed of the woman, the Seed of…

John 6

John 6:1
1. The country that Christ was in (v. 1): He went over the sea of Galilee, called elsewhere the lake of Gennesareth, here the sea of Tiberias, from a city adjoining, which Herod had…
John 6:2
2. The company that he was attended with: A great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles, v. 2. Note, (1.) Our Lord Jesus, while he went about doing good, lived continually in…
John 6:3
3. Christ's posting himself advantageously to entertain them (v. 3): He went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples, that he might the more conveniently be seen and heard by…
John 6:4
4. The time when it was. The first words, After those things, do not signify that this immediately followed what was related in the foregoing chapter, for it was a considerable time after, and…
John 6:5 · 2 passages
1. The notice Christ took of the crowd that attended him (v. 5): He lifted up his eyes, and saw a great company come to him, poor, mean, ordinary people, no doubt, for such…
John 6:6
3. The design of this enquiry; it was only to try the faith of Philip, for he himself knew what he would do, v. 6. Note, (1.) Our Lord Jesus is never at a…
John 6:7
4. Philip's answer to this question: "Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient, v. 7. Master, it is to no purpose to talk of buying bread for them, for neither will the country…
John 6:8–9
(1.) The strength of his love to those for whom he saw his Master concerned, in that he was willing to bring out all they had, though he knew not but they might want…
John 6:9
... [2.] It was but short and scanty; there were but five loaves, and those so small that one little lad carried them all; and we find (2 Kings iv. 42, 43) that twenty…
John 6:10
6. The directions Christ gave the disciples to seat the guests (v. 10): "Make the men sit down, though you have nothing to set before them, and trust me for that." This was like…
John 6:11 · 2 passages
7. The distribution of the provision, v. 11. Observe,
John 6:12
8. The care that was taken of the broken meat. (1.) The orders Christ gave concerning it (v. 12): When they were filled, and every man had within him a sensible witness to the…
John 6:13
... The observance of these orders (v. 13): They filled twelve baskets with the fragments, which was an evidence not only of the truth of the miracle, that they were fed, not with fancy,…
John 6:14
III. Here is the influence which this miracle had upon the people who tasted of the benefit of it (v. 14): They said, This is of a truth that prophet. Note, 1. Even the…
John 6:15 · 3 passages
1. Observe what induced him to retire; because he perceived that those who acknowledged him to be that prophet that should come into the world would come, and take him by force, to make…
John 6:16–17
1. Here is their going down to the sea in a ship (v. 16, 17): When even was come, and they had done their day's work, it was time to look homeward, and therefore…
John 6:18
2. Here is the stormy wind arising and fulfilling the word of God. They were Christ's disciples, and were now in the way of their duty, and Christ was now in the mount praying…
John 6:19–20 · 2 passages
3. Here is Christ's seasonable approach to them when they were in this peril, v. 19. They had rowed (being forced by the contrary winds to betake themselves to their oars) about twenty-five or…
John 6:21
4. Here is their speedy arrival at the port they were bound for, v. 17. (1.) They welcomed Christ into the ship; they willingly received him. Note, Christ's absenting himself for a time is…
John 6:22
1. They were much at a loss for him. He was gone, and they knew not what was become of him. They saw there was no boat there but that in which the disciples…
John 6:23–24 · 3 passages
I. The careful enquiry which the people made after Christ, v. 23, 24. They saw the disciples go to sea; they saw Christ retire to the mountain, probably with an intimation that he desired…
John 6:25 · 2 passages
II. The success of this enquiry: They found him on the other side of the sea, v. 25. Note, Christ will be found of those that seek him, first or last; and it is…
John 6:26
1. He discovers the corrupt principle they acted from in following him (v. 26): "Verily, verily, I say unto you, I that search the heart, and know what is in man, I the Amen,…
John 6:27 · 4 passages
2. He directs them to better principles (v. 27): Labour for that meat which endures to everlasting life. With the woman of Samaria he had discoursed of spiritual things under the similitude of water;…
John 6:28–29
I. Christ having told them that they must work for the meat he spoke of, must labour for it, they enquire what work they must do, and he answers them, v. 28, 29. 1.…
John 6:29
... Lord, I am ready to do whatever thou shalt appoint, though ever so displeasing to flesh and blood, Acts ix. 6. 2. Christ's answer was plain enough (v. 29): This is the work…
John 6:30
1. Their enquiry is after a sign (v. 30): What sign showest thou? Thus far they were right, that, since he required them to give him credit, he should produce his credentials, and make…
John 6:31 · 3 passages
(2.) That they preferred the miraculous feeding of Israel in the wilderness before all the miracles Christ wrought (v. 31): Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; and, to strengthen the objection, they…
John 6:32
... [2.] That he is the bread of God (v. 33), divine bread; it is he that is of God (v. 46), bread which my Father gives (v. 32), which he has made to…
John 6:33–35 · 2 passages
(1.) He here shows that he is the true bread; this he repeats again and again, v. 33, 35, 48-51. Observe, [1.] That Christ is bread is that to the soul which bread is…
John 6:34
(1.) When they heard of such a thing as the bread of God, which gives life, they heartily prayed for it (v. 34): Lord, evermore give us this bread. I cannot think that this…
John 6:35 · 2 passages
(1.) He shows what it is to believe in Christ. [1.] To believe in Christ is to come to Christ. He that comes to me is the same with him that believes in me…
John 6:36
(3.) He shows what encouragements we have to believe in Christ. Christ here speaks of some who had seen him and yet believed not, v. 36. They saw his person and miracles, and heard…
John 6:37 · 4 passages
[1.] That the Son will bid all those welcome that come to him (v. 37): Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. How welcome should this word be to…
John 6:38 · 2 passages
[1.] He assures us, in general, that he came from heaven upon his Father's business (v. 38), not do his own will, but the will of him that sent him. He came from heaven,…
John 6:39 · 2 passages
[2.] He acquaints us, in particular, with that will of the Father which he came to do; he here declares the decree, the instructions he was to pursue.
John 6:40
Secondly, The public instructions which were to be given to the children of men, in what way, and upon what terms, they might obtain salvation by Christ; and this is the covenant of grace…
John 6:41–42
(2.) But, when they understood that by this bread of life Jesus meant himself, then they despised it. Whether they were the same persons that had prayed for it (v. 34), or some others…
John 6:42
... [2.] That which they thought justified them herein was that they knew his extraction on earth: Is not this Jesus the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? They took it…
John 6:43
... Christ overheard their secret whisperings, and said (v. 43), "Murmur not among yourselves; lay not the fault of your dislike of my doctrine one upon another, as if it were because you find…
John 6:44 · 3 passages
b. Their wills shall be bowed. If the soul of man had now its original rectitude there needed no more to influence the will than the illumination of the understanding; but in the depraved…
John 6:45–46
a. Their understandings shall be enlightened; this is promised, v. 45, 46. It is written in the prophets, who spoke of these things before, And they shall be all taught of God; this we…
John 6:45
(b.) It follows then, by way of inference from this, that every man that has heard and learned of the Father comes to Christ, v. 45. [a.] It is here implied that none will…
John 6:46
... But lest any should dream of a visible appearance of God the Father to the children of men (to teach them these things), and entertain any gross conceptions about hearing and learning of…
John 6:47 · 2 passages
[2.] They shall never die, not die eternally; for, First, He that believes on Christ has everlasting life (v. 47); he has the assurance of it, the grant of it, the earnest of it;…
John 6:48
... [3.] That he is the bread of life (v. 35, and again, v. 48), that bread of life, alluding to the tree of life in the midst of the garden of Eden, which…
John 6:49–50
... Secondly, Whereas they that did eat manna died, Christ is such bread as a man may eat of and never die, v. 49, 50. Observe here, 1. The insufficiency of the typical manna:…
John 6:51 · 2 passages
... Secondly, The divine original of all that good which flows to us through him. He comes, not only katabas—that came down (v. 51), but katabainoi—that comes down; he is descending, denoting a constant…
John 6:52
(1.) Let us see how this discourse of Christ was liable to mistake and misconstruction, that men might see, and not perceive. [1.] It was misconstrued by the carnal Jews, to whom it was…
John 6:53 · 4 passages
[1.] What is meant by the flesh and blood of Christ. It is called (v. 53), The flesh of the Son of man, and his blood, his as Messiah and Mediator: the flesh and…
John 6:54
b. We shall live eternally by him (v. 54): Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, as prepared in the gospel to be the food of souls, he hath eternal life, he hath…
John 6:55
... His flesh is meat indeed, and his blood is drink indeed, v. 55. Observe, also, the participation of this food: We must eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his…
John 6:56
First, We shall be one with Christ, as our bodies are with our food when it is digested (v. 56): He that eats my flesh, and drinks my blood, that lives by faith in…
John 6:57
a. We shall live by him (v. 57): As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. We have…
John 6:58
... [5.] That he is that bread of which the manna was a type and figure (v. 58), that bread, the true bread, v. 32. As the rock that they drank of was Christ,…
John 6:60
1. Their murmurings at the doctrine they heard (v. 60): This is a hard saying, who can hear it? (1.) They do not like it themselves: "What stuff is this? Eat the flesh, and…
John 6:61
(1.) He well enough knew their murmurings, v. 61. Their cavils were secret in their own breasts, or whispered among themselves in a corner. But, [1.] Christ knew them; he saw them, he heard…
John 6:62
[1.] He gives them a hint of his ascension into heaven, as that which would give an irresistible evidence of the truth of his doctrine (v. 62): What and if you shall see the…
John 6:63 · 2 passages
[2.] He gives them a general key to this and all such parabolical discourses, teaching them that they are to be understood spiritually, and not after a corporal and carnal manner: It is the…
John 6:64–65 · 3 passages
[3.] He gives them an intimation of his knowledge of them, and that he had expected no better from them, though they called themselves his disciples, v. 64, 65. Now was fulfilled that of…
John 6:65
Secondly, The reason why they did not believe his report was because the arm of the Lord was not revealed to them (v. 65): Therefore said I unto you that no man can come…
John 6:66 · 2 passages
3. We have here their final apostasy from Christ hereupon: From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him, v. 66. When we admit into our minds hard…
John 6:67 · 2 passages
1. The affectionate question which Christ put to the twelve (v. 67): Will you also go away? He saith nothing to those who went back. If the unbelieving depart, let them depart; it was…
John 6:68–69 · 3 passages
2. The believing reply which Peter, in the name of the rest, made to this question, v. 68, 69. Christ put the question to them, as Joshua put Israel to their choice whom they…
John 6:69
[2.] Because of the assurance they had concerning him (v. 69): We believe, and are sure, that thou art that Christ. if he be the promised Messiah, he must bring in an everlasting righteousness…
John 6:70–71 · 2 passages
3. The melancholy remark which our Lord Jesus made upon this reply of Peter's (v. 70, 71): Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil? And the evangelist tells…