John 4:31-34 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

In the mean while his disciples prayed him,— While these things were doing, the disciples set the meat which they had bought, before their Master; but he regarded it not, though he then stood much in need of refreshment. He was wholly intent on the duties of his mission, preferring them to his necessary food. Hence, when his disciples entreated him to eat, he told them, that he had meat to eat which they knew nothing of; meaning the satisfaction that he was about to receive from the conversion of the Samaritans; for meat is often used in the Jewish writings to signify that which satisfies the desires of the soul, as well as the wants of the body. Hence also our Lord says, John 4:34. "My meat, my true satisfaction, and best refreshment, is to do the will of him that sent me,—and to finish his work as fast as possible, in the conversion of souls, and in the propagation of his kingdom; and I with pleasure can assure you, that it is now going on successfully." See the next note.