John 1:21 - Meaning and Context

John 1:21 is a verse from the book of John in the New Testament. "They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No. Read the full text below in 6 translations (NIV, KJV, ESV, NLT, MSG, NASB) with context, meaning, and application.

"They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.”"
John 1:21 (NIV)

How does John 1:21 read in different translations?

NIV

"They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.”"

KJV

"And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No. <sup>that prophet: or, a prophet?</sup>"

ESV

"And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.”"

NLT

"“Well then, who are you?” they asked. “Are you Elijah?” “No,” he replied. “Are you the Prophet we are expecting?” “No.”"

MSG

"They pressed him, "Who, then? Elijah?" "I am not." "The Prophet?" "No.""

NASB

"They asked him, 'What then? Are you Elijah?' And he said, 'I am not.' 'Are you the Prophet?' And he answered, 'No.'"

What is the context of John 1:21?

John 1:21 is found in the New Testament, in the book of John. This verse comes from chapter 1, which can be read in full at the John chapter 1 page. Understanding the surrounding passages helps illuminate the deeper meaning of this verse.

What does John 1:21 mean?

"They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.”..." — John 1:21 reveals truths about God's character and His purposes. This passage has been a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration for believers across generations. The original biblical context enriches our understanding of how this verse applies today.

How can I apply John 1:21 to my life today?

As you reflect on John 1:21, consider how God's truth applies to your current circumstances. Scripture is living and active — it speaks into every season of life. Let this verse shape your thoughts, decisions, and relationships as you walk in faith.

What is a prayer based on John 1:21?

Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth revealed in John 1:21. Open my heart to receive Your Word and transform my life. Help me apply this Scripture faithfully and share its hope with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does John 1:21 mean?

"They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.”..." — John 1:21 reveals truths about God's character and His purposes. This passage has been a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration for believers across generations. The original biblical context enriches our understanding of how this verse applies today.

What is the context of John 1:21?

John 1:21 is found in the New Testament, in the book of John. This verse comes from chapter 1, which can be read in full at the John chapter 1 page. Understanding the surrounding passages helps illuminate the deeper meaning of this verse.

How does John 1:21 read in other translations?

John 1:21 is available in 6 translations on Bible Verse Randomizer: NIV, KJV, ESV, NLT, MSG, and NASB. Each translation offers unique insights — compare them all on the John 1:21 comparison page.

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