Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

In the Gospel passage of Pentecost (John 7:37-39), it states, “There was, of course, no Spirit yet, because Jesus had not yet been glorified.” This raises questions about how Jesus could have been conceived by the Holy Spirit if there was no Spirit until his glorification. Four keys help clarify this matter.

The first key considers the broader context of the Bible and Church teachings (Catechism §§112-114). The Holy Trinity is eternal, meaning the Holy Spirit has always existed. This is evident from Genesis 1:2, where the “Spirit of God” hovers over Creation, and throughout biblical revelation with numerous references in both Testaments. The Creed also affirms belief in the Holy Spirit as “the Lord, the Giver of life.”

The second key focuses on John 7:37-39's immediate context and its connection to Jesus’ Farewell Discourse (John 14–16). In these passages, Jesus promises to send a "Present Enabler" to be with his disciples after his departure. Thus, “There was... no Spirit yet” refers specifically to this promised presence post-glorification rather than an absolute absence.

The third key involves understanding ellipsis—a literary device where words are omitted but inferred from context. Biblical authors frequently use ellipsis. For instance, John 6:27’s phrase “Do not work for the food that perishes” omits ‘only’ or ‘primarily,’ implying focus on spiritual sustenance without forbidding physical labor. Similarly, John 7:39 might omit ‘given’ or ‘upon them,’ indicating that the Spirit had not yet been given to believers before Jesus' glorification.

Lastly, variations in English translations can provide clarity. While The New American Bible reads, “There was... no Spirit yet,” other versions like the Revised Standard Version and English Standard Version include phrases such as “the Spirit had not been given.” Comparing these translations helps elucidate intended meanings.

For further study and clarity on scriptural interpretations, it is recommended that personal and institutional libraries include copies of both The New American Bible and either the Revised Standard Version 2nd Catholic Edition or English Standard Version Catholic Edition.