John 9:4 – “As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus is explaining the urgency of His mission. He describes His time on earth as “day”—a limited period during which He must accomplish the work God has given Him. He knows that soon “night” will come, meaning His crucifixion and death. Once His earthly ministry is over, there will be no more opportunities for Him to perform miracles and preach the good news in person.
Jesus also includes His disciples in this statement by saying, “we must do the works of him who sent me.” He is calling His followers to join Him in the work of God while there is still time. This same urgency applies to every believer today—our time on earth is limited, and we must be faithful in doing God’s work while we can.
Historical Context
In the ancient Jewish world, people worked during daylight hours and stopped at night when it became too dark to labor. There were no artificial lights like today, so once night fell, work had to cease. Jesus uses this cultural reality to make a spiritual point—there is a limited time to do God’s work, and that time must not be wasted.
Jesus was also speaking in the shadow of His approaching crucifixion. He knew that the opposition against Him was growing, and soon His public ministry would come to an end. This made His words even more urgent—there was still work to be done, but time was running out.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that God’s work is not something to be delayed. Jesus is showing that the opportunity to serve God is not endless—there will come a time when it is too late. For Him, this referred to His impending death, but for all people, it also speaks of the limited time we have in this life to follow and serve God.
It also reminds us that God has given each person a mission. Jesus knew He had been sent by the Father for a purpose, and He calls His followers to join in that work. Believers are not just spectators—they are called to actively serve God while they have the chance.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of a larger conversation where Jesus explains why He is about to heal the blind man. The imagery of day and night is a common biblical metaphor. “Day” represents a time of opportunity, while “night” represents a time when opportunities are lost.
Jesus’ phrase “the works of him who sent me” echoes earlier statements in John’s Gospel, where He repeatedly emphasizes that He is doing the will of the Father (John 5:36, John 6:38). This reinforces the idea that Jesus’ mission was not random—it was part of God’s divine plan.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- John 11:9-10 – Jesus speaks again of working while there is daylight, warning that walking in darkness leads to stumbling.
- Ecclesiastes 9:10 – “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” This reinforces the idea that opportunities do not last forever.
- Ephesians 5:16 – “Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” This is a call for believers to act with urgency in serving God.
- James 4:14 – “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” This reminds us of the shortness of life and the need to act while we can.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a call to action. Just as Jesus had a limited time to fulfill His mission, so do we. Every day is an opportunity to serve God—whether through sharing the gospel, helping those in need, or growing in our faith.
Many people assume they have plenty of time to get serious about their relationship with God. But Jesus’ words remind us that time is short, and opportunities to serve Him will not always be available. We should live with urgency, making the most of the time God has given us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in the way He calls people to participate in His work. He does not leave people without purpose but invites them to be part of His plan. This verse also shows that God gives opportunities, but they are not endless. Because He loves us, He urges us to use our time wisely, knowing that what we do for Him matters eternally.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate example of working faithfully for God. He knew His time on earth was short, yet He remained focused on fulfilling His mission.
His work didn’t end with His death—through His resurrection, He made a way for others to continue spreading His message. This is why, after His resurrection, He commanded His disciples to keep doing the work of making disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). His followers today are called to carry on that mission, knowing that He will one day return.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What “works of God” has He given you to do in your life?
- Do you ever delay doing what you know God is calling you to do? Why?
- How can you develop a sense of urgency in serving God while you have time?
- What distractions keep you from focusing on God’s work in your daily life?
- How does Jesus’ example of using His time wisely challenge you to make the most of your own opportunities?