Midweek Message from the Archive
The Woman at Jacob’s Well- Part 4
It started out as an ordinary day, but became a divine encounter (John 4). This Man, who didn’t seem to be ashamed of her, talked like she’d never heard before: Living water? Bubbling up inside? What’s that about?
Jesus wasn’t finished with her yet so He continued in the lower story to show His power and glory through her current living situation. He knew she’d been rejected by six men, but He appeared to show her that He was the One who would bring her wholeness.
The word that Jesus used when she admitted her immoral behavior was unexpected. It means a response that’s attractive or praiseworthy; it’s translated “you’re right”, but there’s more there (vs. 17). She was honest and He was impressed. This Greek word indicates a goodness that inspires or motivates others to embrace what is lovely. Jesus commended her knowing she’d be testifying and impacting others for Him.
At this point she only recognized Him as a prophet; that’s interesting because Samaritans don’t believe in the prophets or other parts of the Old Testament: only the Books of Moses. She also brought up worship, declaring the mountain they are on, Mt. Gerizim, was the place to worship. The Samaritans had their own temple built after being rejected by the Jewish people, but it was long ago destroyed. She was once again operating in the lower story so Jesus brought her into the spiritual realm or upper story by declaring that worship isn’t based on where you are, but the condition of your heart.
True worshippers, Jesus tells all of us, are real and authentic. We have a relationship with God that’s a divine connection and our hearts overflow with love, joy, and adoration of the One who came down from heaven and chose us. Worshipping in spirit and in truth, the same meaning as a true worshipper, is coming to God with a sincere heart and realistic view of our lowliness and His Highness. You come to Him with no falsehood, pretense, and, honestly, with nothing to hide: He already knows you anyway.
This Samaritan woman, whom the Greek Orthodox call Photina, declared that she’s waiting for the Messiah and Jesus revealed Himself to her: I am … He. With that revelation she went to her community, still questioning, but proclaiming that ‘He told me all that I ever did’. It’s clear that Jesus’ Word convinced them,
Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard Him ourselves. Now we know that He is indeed the Savior of the world.” John 4:42
What’s our take-home from John 4? As a believer you are chosen by God, drawn by the Spirit, and your pneuma, spirit, is filled with Him every day. He knows all about you and loves you, sometimes in spite of yourself. Worship Him honestly for that grace and tell others about the Savior of the World.
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