What does John 2:7 mean?
Explanation
John 2:7 recounts a significant moment from the Wedding at Cana, where Jesus performs his first public miracle by turning water into wine.
In the verse, Jesus instructs the servants to fill the available waterpots with water.
His directive is followed precisely, as they fill the pots to the brim.
On a literal level, the verse describes a simple action taken by the servants at the behest of Jesus.
However, symbolically, this act of filling the pots to their utmost capacity can be seen as an illustration of total obedience to Jesus' word and the complete fullness and abundance that His miracles represent.
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Historical Context
The setting of John 2:7 is a Jewish wedding in Cana, Galilee.
Wedding feasts during this time could last several days, and running out of wine would be a significant social faux pas, reflecting poorly on the host family.
Large stone waterpots were typically used for ritual purification, holding water for washing guests’ hands and feet.
By repurposing these ceremonial vessels for his first miracle, Jesus is also providing commentary on the transformation of old Jewish traditions into new Christian practices.
Theological Insights
From a theological standpoint, the narrative demonstrates Jesus' lordship over creation, hinting at His divine identity. His command and the subsequent miracle also mirror the Genesis account of creation, with God bringing forth abundance from the void.
Some theologians interpret this miracle as a sign of the new covenant and the abundance of grace supplied by Christ, as contrasted with the old covenant practices symbolized by the waterpots.
The act of filling to the brim could represent the full measure of God's blessings and the completeness of His works.
Practical Applications
In practical terms, the command to fill the vessels can be seen as an invitation to bring our ordinary lives, symbolized by the water, to Jesus to be transformed into something extraordinary.
This can be applied to our daily tasks, our use of resources, or our personal development.
The action of filling to the brim indicates a thorough and diligent approach to tasks, as well as a trust in Jesus's instructions even when the outcome is not immediately clear.
Cross-References
- John 2:1-11: The entire narrative of the Wedding at Cana where Jesus performs the miracle.
- Matthew 19:26: "But Jesus beheld [them], and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."
- 2 Kings 4:3-6: The story of Elisha and the widow's oil, where vessels are filled to the brim.
- Isaiah 55:1: "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price."
Language Study
In the original Greek text, the word for "fill" is "γεμίσατε" (gemisate), which means to fill completely or fully.
"Waterpots" is translated from "ὑδρίαι" (hydria), large stone jars typically used for the Jewish rite of purification, which highlights the cultural context of these items.
The phrase "to the brim" comes from "ἄχρι ἄνω" (achri ano), emphasizing a full measure to the very top, leaving no room for more.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
In many ancient cultures, including Hellenistic and Roman societies, wine was a symbol of prosperity and celebration.
Water, on the other hand, was often associated with cleaning and everyday use.
In this context, transforming water into wine could be seen as a sign of divine providence.
Within Judaism, wine is linked to joy and festivity, and ritual purity involved the use of water, which makes the elements in this verse rich with religious significance.
Scientific Perspectives
From a scientific viewpoint, turning water into wine involves a complex fermentation process and chemical change that cannot occur instantly through natural means.
The miracle, as described, transcends scientific explanation, inviting those of religious faith to see it as a supernatural event.
It's a direct challenge to the naturalistic understanding of transformations and processes.
Commentaries
Various Bible scholars and theologians have explored John 2:7 in depth.
William Barclay notes that the servants followed Jesus's command without question, an example of perfect obedience and trust.
Matthew Henry's commentary highlights the sufficiency of Christ, illustrated by the full jars, and His power to provide more than is needed.
He also indicates that the miracle suggests the blessings of the Gospel which Jesus was bringing would be rich and abundant.
Craig S.
Keener, in his commentary, suggests that the water being turned into wine symbolizes the transformation of the Judaic purification system into the joys of the new Christian era.