John 2

And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:

And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.

And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.

His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.

Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.

And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.

When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom,

And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.

This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.

After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.

And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem,

And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting:

And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables;

And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise.

And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.

Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things?

Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.

Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?

But he spake of the temple of his body.

When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.

Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did.

But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,

And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.

What does John 2:2 mean?

Explanation

This verse, John 2:2, is straightforward in its literal sense: "And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage." It refers to an invitation that Jesus and His disciples received to attend a wedding celebration.

However, the deeper implication of this verse is significant in Christian theology. This event is taken to represent Jesus' approval of marriage and His willingness to participate in social celebrations.

Moreover, it sets the stage for the first of His recorded miracles, which takes place at this wedding, the turning of water into wine, highlighting His divinity and His power over creation.

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Historical Context

The verse is situated in the context of a Jewish wedding in Cana of Galilee during the time of Jesus' ministry. Weddings during that period were significant social events that could last up to a week. They involved the entire community and were characterized by great feasting and celebration.

It is within such a communal and festive setting that the first sign of Jesus’ miracle-working ministry is recorded. Being called to a marriage reveals the cultural expectation of participation in communal life and the honor bestowed upon guests who were invited.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse and the subsequent narrative of the miracle demonstrate a number of key concepts:

Incarnation: Jesus' participation in everyday life affirms His incarnation, emphasizing His full engagement in human experiences.
Signs: The Gospel of John refers to miracles as "signs," indicating that they point to a greater reality, Jesus' identity and mission.
Covenant: Marriage as an institution is often paralleled to God's covenant relationship with His people.

The presence of Jesus at a wedding feast adds depth to this symbolism.

Joy: The wedding feast is a foreshadowing of the eschatological banquet, representing the joyous communion between Christ and the Church.

Different traditions may draw out varied nuances in this narrative. For example, Catholic theology may tie this event to the sanctity of marriage, while Protestant interpretations might focus on the transformative power of Christ's ministry.

Practical Applications

Applying this verse to daily life could involve:

Community Participation: Being present and involved in community celebrations and life events.
Hospitality: Embracing the call to be hospitable and to celebrate with those who are celebrating.
View of Marriage: Honoring marriage as an institution and the role it plays in society and in God's plan.
Witness to Joy: Reflecting the joy of the gospel in daily life, as Jesus did at the Cana wedding.

Cross-References

Matthew 19:6: “[...] What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”
Ephesians 5:31-32: “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.

This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.”

Revelation 19:7: “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key terms are:

"Called" (κληθεὶς, klētheis): This verb implies being invited or summoned, which was a formal act in that culture.
"Disciples" (μαθηταὶ, mathētai): Indicates followers or students, in this context specifically referring to those following Jesus.
"Marriage" (γάμος, gamos): Used here for a wedding feast, which includes the broader celebration, not just the ceremony.

The use of these terms situates Jesus and His followers in a traditional role as guests at a significant community event.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Jewish wedding customs in the time of Jesus were elaborate and community-centric, which paralleled many other ancient cultures where marriage was a community affair.

In various mythologies, deities are often depicted as attending weddings or feasts, celebrating with mortals or other gods.

Comparatively, the verse reflects a more monotheistic view where only one divine figure is present and his involvement is to bless the union and family life.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific intersection with this verse as it deals with social customs and events.

However, turning water into wine, the miracle that follows, has been a point of discussion regarding the possibilities of such a transformation from a scientific viewpoint, often acknowledging that such a feat would be considered a genuine miracle if it contradicted natural laws.

Commentaries

Experts and scholars often note that John 2:2 provides a glimpse into Jesus' personal life and His compliance with social norms of the time.

Some theologians, like William Barclay, suggest that Jesus blessed the institution of marriage by His presence.

Commentaries often elaborate on the significance of Jesus bringing joy to the wedding feast, thereby beginning His public ministry by affirming joy, community, and celebration as gifts from God.

Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes the idea that Jesus did not promote asceticism but participated fully in human society while still remaining sinless.

John 2

John 2

What does John 2:2 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated John Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?

What does John 2:2 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated John Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?