What does John 7:33 mean?

Explanation

John 7:33 is a statement made by Jesus to a crowd, informing them of his impending departure from the world and return to God the Father.

The phrase "Yet a little while am I with you" suggests that Jesus is aware that his time on Earth is limited.

He speaks of his time with them as 'a little while', emphasizing the fleeting and temporary nature of his mortal ministry.

The latter part of the verse, "and then I go unto him that sent me," refers to his return to the Father who sent him, which in Christian belief is God.

This alludes to the Christian concept of Jesus' pre-existence with the Father before his incarnation and his eventual ascension back to heaven after his crucifixion and resurrection.

Historical Context

The Gospel of John was written in a context where early Christians were experiencing conflict with Jewish religious authorities and trying to define their faith as distinct from Judaism.

In John 7, Jesus is speaking during the Feast of Tabernacles, a Jewish festival that celebrated the wilderness wanderings and God's provision.

Jesus uses this backdrop to teach about his identity and mission.

His statement about leaving soon occurs in the midst of doubt and some hostility from the crowd, as they question his authority and origins.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse touches on several key doctrines.

Firstly, it speaks to the Incarnation, suggesting that Jesus came from the Father and will return to him, affirming both his divinity and his sent purpose.

Secondly, it implies the doctrine of the Trinity by referencing his unique relationship with the one who sent him (the Father).

Finally, it reflects on the eschatological expectation of his return which is foundational to Christian hope.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire believers to reflect on the transient nature of human experiences and the eternal perspective of their faith.

It also serves as a reminder that Jesus' earthly ministry was a mission with a defined purpose and termination.

As followers of Jesus, individuals can take comfort in knowing that as Jesus completed his work and returned to the Father, so they too have purposes to fulfill within their lifetimes.

Cross-References

• John 16:5 - "But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou?"
• John 14:12 - "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father."
• John 14:28 - "Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you.

If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I."

• John 12:35-36 - "Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you.

Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you..."

Language Study

The phrase "Yet a little while" (μικρὸν χρόνον in Greek) uses the term μικρὸν meaning 'little' or 'short', emphasizing the brevity of Jesus' remaining time.

The word χρόνον refers to 'time', indicating a definitive period.

"Am I with you" (μεθ’ ὑμῶν) underscores Jesus' presence.

"I go" (ὑπάγω) can carry the sense of departing or withdrawing.

"Unto him that sent me" (πρὸς τὸν πέμψαντά με) acknowledges the divine sending and indicates a returning to the source or sender. The language conveys Jesus' awareness of his mission and destiny.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient religions, there are often stories of divine beings or heroes who return to their place of origin after completing their tasks on earth.

For instance, in Greek mythology, Hercules ascends to Mount Olympus after his death, having completed his labors.

The idea of a divine messenger or hero departing is a common theme in many cultures, and serves to underscore the significance of their mission and the transient interaction with mortals.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives do not typically intersect with spiritual passages in a direct sense, since science concerns itself with empirical evidence and the physical world, while spiritual statements deal with beliefs and metaphysical concepts.

However, the concept of time as fleeting and the understanding of life as having a defined beginning and end resonate with both realms of understanding. The temporal nature of physical existence is a universal reality acknowledged across both scientific and theological contexts.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians have commented on this passage, including:

• Matthew Henry, who emphasized the need for believers to make good use of the "little while" they have with Jesus through his word and Spirit.
• William Barclay, who discussed the verse in the context of Jesus' divinity and his comfort providing a homeland with God.
• D.A.

Carson, who has explored the verse in the broader narrative of John's Gospel, highlighting its role in revealing Jesus' identity and his relationship with the Father.

• N.T.

Wright focuses on how Jesus' departure is part of the larger narrative that includes his death, resurrection, and ascension, and what that means for the understanding of God's kingdom and salvation history.