John 7:39
(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
John 7:39 · King James Version
Meaning
When Jesus spoke about the Spirit that believers would receive, he was referring to the Holy Spirit that would come after his glorification. At the time Jesus made this statement, the Holy Spirit had not yet been given to believers because Jesus had not yet completed his work on earth and been glorified through his death and resurrection. The Holy Spirit serves as a counselor, guide, and comforter for believers, empowering them for spiritual growth and ministry. This verse highlights the importance of Jesus’ glorification as the event that would usher in the gift of the Holy Spirit to believers. Through the Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to live out their faith, exhibit spiritual fruit, and fulfill the purposes God has for them. As believers in Jesus, we can depend on the Holy Spirit to lead us, teach us, and empower us in our Christian walk.
Theological Overview
When Jesus spoke about the Spirit in this verse, he was referring to the Holy Spirit that believers would receive. The Holy Spirit was not yet given because Jesus had not yet been glorified. This statement underscores the importance of Jesus' glorification in the giving of the Holy Spirit to believers. By connecting the giving of the Spirit with his glorification, Jesus was pointing to the significance of his death, resurrection, and ascension in the work of redemption. Through his glorification, believers would be able to receive the Holy Spirit, who would empower them for a life of faith and service. This verse highlights the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer and emphasizes the foundational connection between Jesus' glorification and the outpouring of the Spirit.
John 7:39 in other translations
American Standard Version
But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believed on him were to receive: for the Spirit was not yet [given] ; because Jesus was not yet glorified.
World English Bible
But he said this about the Spirit, which those believing in him were to receive. For the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus wasn’t yet glorified.
Douay-Rheims
Now this he said of the Spirit which they should receive who believed in him: for as yet the Spirit was not given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
Geneva Bible (1599)
(This spake hee of the Spirite which they that beleeued in him, should receiue: for the holy Ghost was not yet giuen, because that Iesus was not yet glorified.)