John 4:39-42 (WEL) Many of the Samaritans of that city believed in him through the report of the woman who testified, “He told me everything I ever did.” 40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they begged him to stay with them, and he stayed there two days. 41 Many more believed through his own word. 42 They told the woman, “We now believe, not only because of what you said, but because we have heard for ourselves and know that this is the Christ, the Savior of the world.”
V39 Many of the Samaritans of that city believed in him through the report of the woman who testified, “He told me everything I ever did.”
Her witness bore fruit. The Holy Spirit initiates salvation (John 16:8) by convicting one of their sins and opening the heart to understand (Acts 16:14). If the Holy Spirit had not initiated salvation, then no one could or would be saved.
Let us bear witness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and leave the results with the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:6).
Principle: God knows everything, even our thoughts and motives.
Principle: Tell the truth about Jesus.
Principle: Check the source to see if it is true (these Samaritans came to Jesus; see verse 40).
This ministry led the way for later evangelism (Acts 8:4-25).
V40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they begged him to stay with them, and he stayed there two days.
They believed and wanted to know more.
Principle: Jesus has the words of life and wisdom. His words in the Scriptures are our wisdom and spiritual food.
Principle: Jesus was fellowship with believers (1 John 1:7).
V41 Many more believed through his own word.
Many believed the Gospel because of the Samaritan woman’s testimony, yet many more believed after they heard more from Jesus Himself.
V42 They told the woman, “We now believe, not only because of what you said, but because we have heard for ourselves and know that this is the Christ, the Savior of the world.”
Their testimony of salvation. Believing the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the important thing. How it happens to us is different for each believer. God witnesses to all and tailors His approach for the best of every person.
We learn:
- Our testimony can be used by God for God to convict them.
- We must seek truth and believe it.
Questions:
- Do you believe in Jesus Christ for salvation?
- How important is truth (reality) to you?