Reason teaches us to consult decency and convenience in the places of our worship; but religion gives no preference to one place above another, in respect of holiness and approval with God. On page 14, he says, "I suggest, however, that it may be profitable to consider John 4:19-26 … [2] The Pentateuch comprises the first five books of the Old Testament: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. ]Josephus tells us, It was the custom for the Galileans, in their journeying to Jerusalem to their feasts, to go through Samaria. [5] Sugchraomai literally means “to use together”. In the original Greek, His reply was very formal, and polite. Did the Samaritan woman realise that she needed Jesus’ gift of living water for her purification and forgiveness? 7 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, … We should not go into places of temptation but when we needs must; and then must not dwell in them, but hasten through them. The story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman is the first of three major stories in the gospel of John. fruit of his labours. The extent of his knowledge. In contrast, the woman was female, a Samaritan (despised by the Jews), and probably uneducated. He would put honour upon his disciples, by employing them to baptize. 4 Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John — 2 although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. Honours and titles are no security from sickness and death. John 4:27-30 His disciples marvel; the woman calleth the men of. 4 Now he had to go through Samaria. In chapter 2, there is a strong contrast between the joyous, secretive miracle at the wedding and the angry, ostentatious cleansing of the temple. Here’s another book. It should cool our contests, to think that the things we are striving about are passing away. Later Mt Gerizim was to be blessed when the Israelites entered the promised land (Deut 11:29). Yet they knew it was for some good reason, and for some good end. Christ justly preferred the Jewish worship before the Samaritan, yet here he speaks of the former as soon to be done away. Beloved, believe not every spirit The apostle having mentioned the word "spirit" in the latter part of the preceding chapter, takes an occasion from thence to return to what he had been suggesting in the "second" chapter, concerning the many antichrists that then were, and whom he points out, and here cautions against. Being satisfied, he did not hurry home that night, but returned as one easy in his own mind. Christ gave an answer of peace. Your email address will not be published. Here, He converses with a Samaritan woman. John 4:32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. In around 400 BC(?) I am doing a research on John’s Gospel Chapter 4: 1 – 45. I’m not sure how much detail or depth you want for your research. The woman is astonished, even shocked by this request, and she points out that Jews do not associate (NIV), or have dealings (NASB) with Samaritans. Thank you so much for your knid help. The Samaritan Woman of Sychar (John 4) For example, I have not written about the important topic of spiritual worship (John 4:20-26). Blessed are those who are not offended at Christ. It adds much to the praise of our love to Christ and his word, if it conquers prejudices. What we’ve seen is a revelation. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. 4 But He needed to go … I would like to suggest that this woman had a genuine interest in worship and theology and was simply asking an honest theological question from someone she regarded as a prophet. But it is just speculation with no basis.) John 4:33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat? Pending.). The woman acknowledged Christ to be a prophet. Some articles are better than others, and there are gaps. In order to make the shortest possible trip, a person could simply pass through Samaritan territory on their way from the city. 14:5-6, 50-52; 15:13; Num. What does John 4:4 mean? Required fields are marked *. In the heat of the day, a Samaritan woman has come to draw water from the well. Your email address will not be published. Toil came in with sin; therefore Christ, having made himself a curse for us, submitted to it. [4] Derek & Diane Tidball, The Message of Woman: Creation, Grace and Gender, (Nottingham: Inter-Varsity Press, 2012), 169. The carnal mind is very ingenious in shifting off convictions, and keeping them from fastening. » Jesus and the Court Official – John 4:43-54. The overall lesson that I get is that the kingdom of God doesn’t belong to one group of people (eg. He told her secret sins with power. Bruce Chilton and Craig A. Evans (Leiden: Brill, 1988) 188. And the bringing the cure to the family brought salvation to it. She may have lived an immoral life, she is nameless and possibly vulnerable. (1-3) His discourse with the Samaritan woman. (43-54). It is a steadfast confidence that His word is true and His promises are sure. No past sins can bar our acceptance with him, if we humble ourselves before him, believing in him as the Christ, the Saviour of the world. 3 So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. [1] Abraham and Jacob had built altars near Mount Gerizim (Ge 12:7; 33:20). Jews travelling between Judea and Galilee normally went around Samaria (a six-day journey), but Jesus was compelled by Holy Spirit to travel through Samaria for a divine appointment. 4 1 “For indeed the day 2 is coming, burning like a furnace, and all the arrogant evildoers will be chaff. (The New Testament records several theological conversations between Jesus and women. Thank you for your response of this instant. The object of worship will continue still the same, God, as a Father; but an end shall be put to all differences about the place of worship. Jesus, Women and Theology: Jesus said to her …, « Faith Belief Trust and Salvation – John 2:24-25, » Jesus and the Court Official – John 4:43-54, Many women leaders in the Bible had this one thing in common, The Propriety of Bible Women with Authority, https://margmowczko.com/category/bible-study-notes/gospel-of-john-bible-study-notes/, Don Carson and Tim Keller on “I Do Not Permit a Woman to Teach”, In the Image of God (Gen 1:26-28) in a Nutshell. John 4:24(NASB) Verse Thoughts Religious men often seek to worship God through symbolic acts; man-made rituals; fleshly works or emotional outbursts.. but God desires a worshipful heart that is clean before Him; dependent upon Him; submissive to Him and full of humility and grace. Jesus knows that the woman has had five husbands and that the man she is living with now is not her husband. [8] The Sanhedrin was the Jewish ruling council, made up of 70 members and overseen by the High Priest. Here. © 2020 Christianity.com. John 4:5–26 describes one of the most famous moments in Jesus' earthly ministry. 4 Now he had to … First, John encourages them, "you … Christ compares his work to harvest-work. CHAPTER 4. John 4:25, “The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming (He who is called Christ); when that One comes, He will declare all things to us.” So she has some insight into this. The knowledge of Christ still spreads through families, and men find health and salvation to their souls. Jesus applied himself more to preaching, which was the more excellent, 1 Corinthians 1:17, than to baptism. You are more than welcome to use the information in any of these articles with your students. The greatest men must go themselves to God, must become beggars. Perhaps you can tell your students about my website. Nicodemus was male, a Jew, educated, and from a good family. Jesus baptized not--John being a servant baptized with his own hand; Christ as the Master, "baptizing … Those taught of God, are truly desirous to learn more. But whoever partakes of the Spirit of grace, and the comforts of the gospel, shall never want that which will abundantly satisfy his soul. The power of his word in searching the heart, and convincing the conscience of secret things, is a proof of Divine authority. The father was a nobleman, yet the son was sick. [6] Diligent comparing the works of Jesus with his word, will confirm our faith. Under this comparison the blessing of the Messiah had been promised in the Old Testament. (The Samaritan religious community still exists today.). To abide in Christ is a cleaving to Him, in love. Matthew Henry’s Bible Commentary (concise), Matthew Henry Bible Commentary (complete), California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Of whatever waters of comfort we drink, we shall thirst again. 21:4), the use of flowing water, or “living” water, was required for ritual purification of the more severe forms of uncleanness; and in the Judaism of Jesus’ time flowing water and rivers were associated with repentance and forgiveness. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Our Master has left us an example, that we may learn to do the will of God as he did; with diligence, as those that make a business of it; with delight and pleasure in it. John 4 New King James Version (NKJV) A Samaritan Woman Meets Her Messiah. John 4:26, “Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am He.” What He actually uses is ego eime- I AM. It was about “the sixth hour” (John 4:6), meaning six hours from sunrise at 6 AM, hence noon. Jesus and Women, «  Water in Wine – John 2:1-12 And the life was the light of men — He, who is essential life, and the author of life to all that live, was also the fountain of wisdom, holiness, … John 4:31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. John 4:31-38 Christ showeth his own zeal to do God’s work, and the. He was morally upright, a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin[8], and a “teacher of Israel” (John 3:10). [⇑ See verse text ⇑] After speaking about false teachers in verses 1 through 3, John offers reassurance. His name, which in Greek means “conqueror of the people”, implies strength. To avoid becoming involved in a futile confrontation with the Pharisees, Jesus and his disciples leave Judea to travel north to Galilee. And he must needs go through Samaria. 3 So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Thus we see that he was truly a man. Designed by Brugel Creative | © Margaret Mowczko, Exploring the biblical theology of Christian egalitarianism, Note: A more recent, better article on the Samaritan woman is, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Jesus and the Court Official – John 4:43-54, Faith, Belief, Trust, and Salvation – John 2:24-25. Unfortunately, I don’t have time to think through and write down my own thoughts at this time. God Bless. 4 Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John — 2 although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. I have a few articles on the Gospel of John chapters 1-10. Good news will meet those that hope in God's word. You can support my work for as little as $3 a month. 1 John 4:1. [3] Compare Genesis 33:19 and 48:52 with Joshua 24:32. Jesus knows that this woman is “thirsty” and promises that his living water will completely quench a person’s spiritual longing and thirst. Jesus Talks With a Samaritan Woman. Roger Hahn. Jesus describes this living water as becoming a spring of gushing water, eternally flowing from within the person who receives his gift. He teaches us that the benefit of sacraments depends not on the hand that administers them. [6] Jacob’s well is more than 30 metres deep. Jesus and the Samaritan woman – John 4:1-4. Later, Jesus would specifically mention Samaria when he told his disciples: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). the Samaritans built a temple on Mount Gerizim. Their faith grew. In John 7:38-39, John explains that living water represents the Holy Spirit. He that feareth is not made perfect in love — In the sense above explained. Nicodemus held a prestigious position in society. She may also have been an outcast in her town. 19:17; Deut. Yet they knew it was for some good reason, and for some good end. Carnal hearts look no higher than carnal ends. This is remarkable because a woman’s testimony was legally worthless in those days, and this woman’s reputation may have been dubious. In the matter of it: they believed him to be the Saviour, not only of the Jews but of the world. Thus when particular difficulties occur in the word and providence of God, it is good to satisfy ourselves that all is well that Jesus Christ … Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman were very different, completely different. himself unto her. Note: A more recent, better article on the Samaritan woman is here. She was an alien and a hostile Samaritan, merely speaking to her was thought to disgrace our Lord Jesus. The graces of the Spirit, and his comforts, satisfy the thirsting soul, that knows its own nature and necessity. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and insights. A Brief History of the Samaritans A 30-minute podcast of an excellent sermon on the Samaritan woman is here. The fact that Jesus got tired attests to Him having been fully man, as well as fully God, when He was on the earth. In the first three verses of chapter 4, we discover that Jesus is gaining more and more disciples, more disciples than John the Baptist (cf John 3:23b & 26). However, just as Nicodemus had failed to see the spiritual meaning of being “born again” (John 3:3-4), the woman fails to see the spiritual significance of the “living water” and only sees what may be a practical advantage for her. [⇑ See verse text ⇑] Samaria lies directly between Jerusalem and Galilee. It’s really helpful. Jesus asks the woman to give him a drink of water. It is hard to persuade ourselves that distance of time and place, are no hinderance to the knowledge, mercy, and power of our Lord Jesus. Jesus suddenly changes the subject and asks the woman to call her husband. By this living water is meant the Spirit. The term "woman" could also be thought of as "madam," such as in John 19:26 … Using Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman recorded in chapter 4, and Jesus’ previous encounter with Nicodemus recorded in chapter 3, John presents the most fundamental and profound spiritual truths, and yet the Samaritan woman and Nicodemus could not be more different from each other. He severely reproved her present state of life. blessedness of his disciples, who were to reap the. This one is written by a Lutheran scholar. the Jews), and that people who really worship God do so through their lives, and not specifically in a building. You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than … Study … The Samaritans had developed their own compromised version of Judaism. In him — Or, through him, as Beza understands it; was life — He was the living and powerful Word, which was the source of life to every living creature, as well as of being to all that exists. However, the Samaritans were loathed by most Jews. The woman, possibly perceiving this metaphorical meaning, realises that Jesus is a prophet speaking about true religion, so she asks him a theological question about true worship. He probably had been walking all morning and the sun was hot at its zenith. Harvest-time is a short time, and harvest-work must be done then, or not at all; so the time of the gospel is a season, which if once past, cannot be recalled. Hi Rachel. Christ shows that the water of Jacob's well yielded a very short satisfaction. And the power of his word. They came to him: those who would know Christ, must meet him where he records his name. The woman immediately leaves her water jar and goes into the town (cf Matt. John 1:4-5. (Some speculate that the woman comes at midday to avoid meeting people because she was ashamed of her life. 4 Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John — 2 although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 4 Now he had to … 4. This is a quirk of translating from one language to another. She attempts to avoid Jesus' teachings, giving flippant and sarcastic answers. And he visits Jesus discreetly at night, possibly under the cover of darkness (John 3:1-2). John Lightfoot's Commentary on the Gospels. The woman was disposed to leave the matter undecided, till the coming of the Messiah. Thus an experience of the power of one word of Christ, may settle the authority of Christ in the soul. These Samaritans were ready to believe, however, and they went on to trust in Jesus, even more, when they had heard him for themselves. Those who by the Scriptures have obtained some knowledge of God, know whom they worship. ... Jesus also showed that just because someone calls a relationship marriage, it does not mean that Jesus considers it marriage. Christ took the occasion to teach her Divine things: he converted this woman, by showing her ignorance and sinfulness, and her need of a Saviour. Weiss interprets the words as meaning that Jesus leaves Samaria, where honour had come unbidden, in order to evoke faith and honour where as yet He had none: thus continuing the hard work of sowing and leaving to the disciples … We have here our Lord Jesus under the common fatigue of travellers. They believed in Yahweh (Yahweh is God’s name) but they worshipped at Mt Gerizim[1] instead of Jerusalem. her city to see him. The coming day will burn them up,” says the Lord who rules over all. Spiritual affections, as shown in fervent prayers, supplications, and thanksgivings, form the worship of an upright heart, in which God delights and is glorified. John 4 - NIV: Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John— although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. The whole family believed likewise. He conveys these facts without the slightest sense of criticism or condemnation. It came to other nations through them. After Jesus’ speech about true, spiritual worship, the woman, becoming increasingly aware of his spiritual stature says, “I know that Messiah is coming. See Deuteronomy 27:4-6. Jesus, Women and Theology: Jesus said to her … I would like to ask you if you could share some of your thoughts on the context of the Theology of this Chapter. John 4:1-42.CHRIST AND THE WOMAN OF SAMARIA--THE SAMARITANS OF SYCHAR. I just read this today (28.03.14) in Robert L. Webb’s chapter, “John the Baptist and his Relationship to Jesus” in Studying the Historical Jesus, eds. Our countryman Biddulph describes the way which he himself travelled … John 4:39-42 Many … “Jesus ignores the centuries-old hostility between Jew and Samaritan, rides roughshod over the battlements of an entrenched gender-divide, and actually engages this woman in conversation.”[4] It is the longest conversation between Jesus and another person recorded in the Gospels. Not the city, but the country of Samaria; for the way to Galilee from Judea, lay through the midst of Samaria; nor was there any other way, without going a great way about; see ( Luke 9:51 Luke 9:52) ( 17:11) ; and which is also confirmed by Josephus F3: and this accounts for his … God’s blessings in your work. [2] They did not accept the poetic books or prophetic books of the Old Testament as Scripture. He sat thus, as people wearied with travelling sit. Yet to this woman did our Lord reveal himself more fully than as yet he had done to any of his disciples. Jesus doesn’t have his own utensil to draw water from the deep well. « Jesus Clears the Temple –John 2:13-23 John 4:1-3. What does John 2:4 mean? 5 So he came to … 1 John 4:8(NASB) Verse Thoughts What a beautiful truth it is.. to know that God is love, and that the love that we are called to manifest in our lives, has its source in the divine love of God. Its very encouraging to hear from you. [7] The King of Assyria brought people from (1) Babylon, (2) Cuthah, (3) Avva, (4) Hamath and (5) Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria (2 Kings 17:24). The Gospel of John frequently uses contrast as a teaching tool. 4 Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John 2 (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples), 3 He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. According to the Samaritan scriptures, Moses commanded that an altar be built there. The spirit or the soul of man, as influenced by the Holy Spirit, must worship God, and have communion with him. Josephus spoke of this as the customary way of the Galileans going up during the feasts at Jerusalem. And we learn that Jesus’ closest disciples are baptising the new followers. John 4:5-6 sets the scene for this narrative. Christ's saying that the soul lives, makes it alive. All Rights Reserved. She meets Jesus, a Jewish man, in the midday sun in what would have been a scandalous encounter according to the customs of society at that time. ii. John 4 – A Samaritan Woman and a Nobleman Meet Jesus A. The Jews regarded the Samaritans as ignorant, superstitious, mongrels, outside of God’s favour or consideration, and they would not associate with them. John 4:4. The nobleman did not stop from his request till he prevailed. According to the Hebrew Torah (Lev. Our Saviour, by teaching one poor woman, spread knowledge to a whole town. It is plausible that the five husbands represent the five tribes[7] sent by the Assyrians who had intermarried with the Samaritans, and that the woman is symbolic of Samaria. [6] He will have to share and drink from her vessel—a Samaritan woman’s vessel! She strongly believes that if we are in Christ we are part of the New Creation and part of a community where old social paradigms of hierarchies and caste or class systems have no place (2 Cor. He refers to his readers as "little children," using the same Greek phrasing he did in 1 John 2:12. (27-42) Christ heals the nobleman's son. 4 Now he had to go through Samaria. There was great hatred between the Samaritans and the Jews. John 4:34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish … God was about to be revealed as the Father of all believers in every nation. Thus when particular difficulties occur in the word and providence of God, it is good to satisfy ourselves that all is well that Jesus Christ says and does. Become a Patron! She was surprised because he did not show the anger of his own nation against the Samaritans. “It 3 will not leave even a root or branch. His servants met him with the news of the child's recovery. 1 John 4:18-19. What does 1 John 4:4 mean? John 4:4 records that in order to reach Galilee it was necessary to pass through Samaria, although an alternative route through Peraea on the eastern side of the Jordan could have been taken. 4 C. K. Barrett, Essays on John (Philadelphia: Westminster, 1982) 14-16, focuses on the concept of worship in 19-26 as central to this story. There is no fear in love — No slavish or tormenting fear, diffidence, or distrust, can be where love reigns; but perfect, mature love casteth out such fear, because such fear hath torment — And so is inconsistent with the happiness of love. The Jews ultimately destroyed the Samaritan temple in 128/9 BC. [5] This is precisely what Jesus is asking. Greatly appreciated. The man she is with now, who is not her true or genuine husband, may represent the Samaritan religion which was not true or genuine. This caused a lot of tension and hostility between the Jews and Samaritans. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.”  Jesus answers this with “egō eimi” (I am), a term thought to refer to God himself. Here. She fastened upon that part of Christ's discourse, many would think she would have been most shy of repeating; but the knowledge of Christ, into which we are led by conviction of sin, is most likely to be sound and saving. God sometimes uses very weak and unlikely instruments for beginning and carrying on a good work. 1 John 4:4 "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." Marg has a BTh from the Australian College of Ministries and an MA with a specialisation in early Christian and Jewish studies from Macquarie University. I don’t like this author’s view of women, but his book on the theology of the book of John may be useful to you. ), True, Spiritual Worship – John 4:20-26 (This will be covered in another session. I read your understanding of the text on the Samaritan woman and Nicodemus and it is very clear. The disciples wondered that Christ talked thus with a Samaritan. In the first three verses of chapter 4, we discover that Jesus is gaining more and more disciples, more disciples than John the Baptist (cf John 3:23b & 26 ). « Faith Belief Trust and Salvation – John 2:24-25 In verse 4, we are given the impression that there was some pressing necessity for Jesus to travel through Samaria. The miracle made Jesus dear to them. The father went his way, which showed the sincerity of his faith. (See also John 4:12.). Not only does he find it important for understanding this story, but central to the entire Gospel. Posted by Marg | Aug 1, 2009 | Bible Study Notes, Bible Women, The Gospel of John: Chapters 1-10 | 6. 4:19-20). Thank you for allowing me to advise my students about your website. 1-4. the Lord knew--not by report, but in the sense of John 2:25, for which reason He is here styled "the Lord.". If you have any more comments on John’s whole Gospel, may I get permission from you to use them to help my students. These are the only books accepted as Scripture by the Samaritans. John 4:1-9 New International Version (NIV) Jesus Talks With a Samaritan Woman. Click here to: John 4:4-42. Harvest-time is busy time; all must be then at work. In the Greek, verse 26 literally says, “I am he who is speaking to you.” (John 4:26)  Jesus clearly identifies himself to her as the Messiah. 3 So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. This “religious movement” was gaining momentum and was causing some concern for the Pharisees. And we learn that Jesus’ closest disciples are baptising the new followers. 5:17; Gal. Also, he was a poor man, and went all his journeys on foot. 1 John 4:4. The woman answers honestly saying that she has no husband. Following on from this initial interaction, Jesus begins talking about living water. It is believing the truth of His Word with an unshakable assurance. And in the ground of it, for we have heard him ourselves. And he must needs go through Samaria.] I am doing some Bible studies on the Gospel of John with some students and your comments have been very helpful. John 7:8, where He for the moment refuses what He soon after does; and John 12:23, John 17:1, which confirm the meaning here given to ‘hour.’ Bengel's Gnomen John 2:4 . 2. This is quite different in our Bible. What does John chapter 4 mean? Yet John puts these two people side by side in his Gospel and shows that Jesus treated them with equal concern and regard, and he taught both of them precious eternal truths. John 4:1-26 Christ talketh with a woman of Samaria, and revealeth. 3:28). It is a holding fast to Him in trusting obedience. The Jews were certainly in the right. Marg Mowczko lives north of Sydney, Australia, in a house filled with three generations of family. What Jesus spake figuratively, she took literally. “Greater is he that is in you”: Believers need to be aware and alert to false teaching, but not afraid, since those who have experienced the new birth with its indwelling of the Holy Spirit have a … [3] Exhausted from the journey, Jesus sits alone by the well of Jacob while the disciples go into the town to buy lunch (John 4:8). The Samaritans, however, were still very part of God’s plans as shown in this chapter of John’s gospel. This gospel frequently uses stories as an introduction to a discourse about the meaning of Jesus. 2 But for you who respect my name, the sun of vindication 4 will rise with healing wings, 5 and you will skip … The Samaritans declared that “ Jesus is the Saviour of the world!”. He then offers three words of comfort concerning their lives. But how closely our Lord Jesus brings home the conviction to her conscience! This woman who had come to draw water in the middle of the day, possibly to avoid meeting anyone, was now boldly testifying throughout the town about Jesus saying, “Could this be the Messiah?”  Many people believed in Jesus because of the woman’s testimony (John 6:39).