John 4:39

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John 4:39 KJV

And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.

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John 4:39 Bible Commentary

Commentary on John 4:39

Verse: "And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did."

Introduction

The passage in John 4:39 stands as a significant moment in the ministry of Jesus, particularly during His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well. It highlights the power of testimony and the profound impact that personal encounters with Christ can have on the lives of individuals and communities. This commentary synthesizes insights from esteemed public domain commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, providing a comprehensive look at the implications of this verse.

Contextual Overview

In the preceding verses, Jesus breaks cultural norms by speaking with a Samaritan woman. As they converse, He reveals His identity as the Messiah and unveils the depths of her life. This revelation prompts the woman to share her experience with the townspeople, leading to a remarkable response from them.

Historical and Cultural Background

The relationship between Jews and Samaritans was fraught with tension and animosity. The Samaritans were descendants of Israelites who had intermarried with foreign peoples during the Assyrian captivity. This background underscores the significance of Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman, given the prevailing cultural prejudices of the time.

The Testimony of the Woman

According to Albert Barnes, the Samaritan woman's testimony is pivotal. She declares, "He told me all that ever I did," which indicates a deep and intimate understanding that Jesus had of her life. This revelation not only transformed her but also stirred curiosity within her community.

Key Observations:

  • The Transformation of the Woman: Her encounter with Jesus moved her from a state of shame to one of boldness.
  • Authority in Witnessing: Her testimony carried weight because it was personal and authentic. She did not merely repeat what others had said.
  • The Impact of Authenticity: Her genuine encounter with Jesus prompted others to seek Him as well.

The Response of the Samaritans

Matthew Henry notes the immediate result of the woman's testimony: many Samaritans believed in Jesus. Their belief was not prompted purely by intellectual reasoning but rather by the compelling nature of the woman's account. The impact of personal testimony often serves as a bridge for others to encounter Christ.

Faith Through Testimony

Adam Clarke emphasizes that the faith of the Samaritans was sparked by the curiosity aroused by the woman’s story. They were driven to investigate her claims, which led them to approach Jesus directly. This illustrates a significant principle of evangelism: personal testimony can catalyze faith in others.

Theological Implications

John 4:39 invites deeper theological reflection on the nature of faith, identity, and the role of community in the journey of belief. It suggests the following:

  • The Nature of True Witness: Genuine encounters with Christ inspire authentic witness. The Samaritan woman exemplifies how personal transformation leads to communal impact.
  • The Role of Testimony in Evangelism: The verse underscores the significance of sharing personal experiences of Christ as a means of reaching others.
  • Breaking Barriers: Jesus' acceptance of the Samaritan woman exemplifies His mission to transcend cultural and social boundaries in spreading the Gospel.

Application for Today’s Believers

For pastors, students, and theologians, this verse offers several practical applications:

  • Emphasizing Personal Testimony: Encourage congregants to share their own stories of transformation, as it can inspire belief in others.
  • Engaging with Marginalized Communities: Follow Jesus' example of reaching out to those who may feel unworthy or marginalized, reflecting His love and acceptance.
  • Fostering a Culture of Openness: Create environments where individuals feel safe to share and discuss their personal encounters with Christ.

Conclusion

John 4:39 serves as a powerful reminder of how one individual's encounter with Jesus can ripple through a community, leading many to faith. The insights drawn from the commentaries of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke illuminate the profound simplicity and impact of personal testimony in the journey of faith. Pastors and theologians are challenged to facilitate spaces in which such testimonies can be shared, fostering a community that reflects the inclusive and transformative nature of Christ's message.

John 4 (KJV) Verse Selection

John 4:1 John 4:2 John 4:3 John 4:4 John 4:5 John 4:6 John 4:7 John 4:8 John 4:9 John 4:10 John 4:11 John 4:12 John 4:13 John 4:14 John 4:15 John 4:16 John 4:17 John 4:18 John 4:19 John 4:20 John 4:21 John 4:22 John 4:23 John 4:24 John 4:25 John 4:26 John 4:27 John 4:28 John 4:29 John 4:30 John 4:31 John 4:32 John 4:33 John 4:34 John 4:35 John 4:36 John 4:37 John 4:38 John 4:39 John 4:40 John 4:41 John 4:42 John 4:43 John 4:44 John 4:45 John 4:46 John 4:47 John 4:48 John 4:49 John 4:50 John 4:51 John 4:52 John 4:53 John 4:54

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