And from that city many of the Samaritans believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, "He told me all the things that I have done." So when the Samaritans came to Him, they were asking Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. And many more believed because of His word; and they were saying to the woman, "It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves and know that this One is indeed the Savior of the world."
What the Lord is Saying: I love these passages for they have in them little nuggets that I have heard most of my life, like the last phrase, "Jesus is indeed the Savior of the World." Citing Jesus as Savior was most likely using terminology popular during the 1st century in describing the Greek gods as Saviors and Roman emperors as well. And so in describing Jesus as Savior it probably means a little more then because Jesus is above every other perceived leader or deity. And Jesus is the one over all. And yet this does not mean that all are saved because of that proclamation but rather it is only in and through him that people can be saved.
Message: The Savior of the World
Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."
What the Lord is Saying: I love these passages for they have in them little nuggets that I have heard most of my life, like the last phrase, "Jesus is indeed the Savior of the World." Citing Jesus as Savior was most likely using terminology popular during the 1st century in describing the Greek gods as Saviors and Roman emperors as well. And so in describing Jesus as Savior it probably means a little more then because Jesus is above every other perceived leader or deity. And Jesus is the one over all. And yet this does not mean that all are saved because of that proclamation but rather it is only in and through him that people can be saved.
This passage in John 4 is an example of the harvest being ripe and many coming to know Jesus as Savior and Lord. Salvation has occurred for these people. The woman bore witness of her experience with Jesus and people listened to this woman. Again, women were not respected or their words valued during these times and yet her words had an impact on them and they sought to follow Jesus because of what she said.
And now they have seen for themselves. It is not clear to me what Jesus said to them. The previous verses seem to be verses he is speaking to his disciples, explaining to them what is truly meant by doing the will of God and planting seeds and reaping what you sow to experience then the fruit of that labor.
Summary: Many Samaritans put their faith in Jesus and they proclaimed Jesus Savior of the World.
Promise: Christ is the only Savior of the World and there is no hope apart from him for salvation and eternal life.
Prayer: Lord, your message of renewal and salvation and eternal life continues to be shared. You Jesus are still making an impact today and saving souls and bringing good news. I want to praise you God and Jesus and Spirit for making me know and showing me the way. You are one God, the only true God and I praise You. Keep bringing people to the knowledge of You.
Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.
No comments:
Post a Comment