Just then his disciples came back. They marveled that he was talking with a woman, but no one said, “What do you seek?” or, “Why are you talking with her?” John 4:27
I continue my study of John, and today, I unpack John 4:27-30 using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the passage about God?: The disciples marvel that Jesus was talking to a woman, but as I posted yesterday and the day before, Jesus does not care about racial, ethnic, economic, social, or cultural boundaries - all sin and are deserving to hear the gospel and be saved. Note as well this article on the general position of women in historical context from Smith's Bible Dictionary.
- What do we learn from the passage about people?: The text emphasizes how the disciples marveled that Jesus was talking to a woman, no less a Samaritan woman, yet despite how they marveled at the interaction, the text shares "no one said, “What do you seek?” or, “Why are you talking with her?" If all scripture ultimately points to Jesus, it is implied that the disciples should have asked the questions as noted, particularly because they "marveled" at what He was doing akin to a "sign" or an insightful teaching worthy of "teachable moment." The woman ultimately was so moved by the interaction with Jesus that she went back to town to tell people about it, sharing "[c]an this be the Christ?" The townspeople then went out to go be with Jesus.
- Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid neglecting people based on racial, ethnic, economic, social, or cultural boundaries, follow Jesus' example to share fellowship and the gospel message with everyone. Be part of the Great Commission wherever you are.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that loves, saves regardless of racial, ethnic, economic, social, or cultural boundaries - all are sinful (including myself) and worthy of hearing the gospel. Thank You Jesus for softening my heart and saving me! I am not deserving of how You save nor bless with the church. My sin is great and it continues....daily. Please forgive me and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your messages for me today and every day.
