Bible Strands
John 4:26
Jesus answered, “I who speak to you am He.”
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, directly answering her expectation that the Messiah will come and explain all things. This declaration occurs immediately before His disciples return and are surprised by His conversation with her.
The words — The verse centers on ἐγώ (egō, "I myself") and εἰμι (eimi, "am"), paired with λαλῶν (lalōn, "is speaking"). Jesus uses these terms to identify Himself as the one currently addressing her.
The thread — The phrase "I am He" reappears in John 8:24 as a condition for escaping sin. It also connects to the Messianic inquiry in Mark 14:61 and the revelation of the Son of Man in John 9:35.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to acknowledge Jesus as the promised Messiah who reveals divine truth. It demands immediate acceptance of His self-identification without hesitation or evasion.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.
Cross-references
- John 8:24 That is why I told you that you would die in your sins. For unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”
- Mark 14:61 But Jesus remained silent and made no reply. Again the high priest questioned Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?”
- John 9:35 When Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, He found the man and said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”
- Romans 10:20 And Isaiah boldly says: “I was found by those who did not seek Me; I revealed Myself to those who did not ask for Me.”
- Matthew 26:63 But Jesus remained silent. Then the high priest said to Him, “I charge You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God.”
- Luke 13:30 And indeed, some who are last will be first, and some who are first will be last.”
- Matthew 16:20 Then He admonished the disciples not to tell anyone that He was the Christ.
- Matthew 20:15 Do I not have the right to do as I please with what is mine? Or are you envious because I am generous?’