Chapter Overview
Jesus passes through Samaria on His way back to Galilee. He sees a Samaritan woman at a well and asks for a drink. She responds by questioning why a Jewish man would speak to her. What follows is a conversation wherein Jesus speaks of a gift from God, living water, that would spring up within her “to eternal life.” The woman is both curious and cautious. Jesus patiently educates her about a relationship with God, independent of nationality. She knows a Messiah is coming, and Jesus openly tells her that He is the One. She believes and tells many others who then come to Jesus and believe in Him. Following this, Jesus returns to Galilee and heals a royal official’s son by simply saying, “Go; your son lives.”
Luke is the only Gentile author in the New Testament. His gospel is committed to showing that Jesus’ kingdom is open to all people. In this chapter, it is likely that the two beneficiaries of Christ’s mercy are not Jews. The Samaritans were often maligned by the Jews, and yet Jesus preaches eternal life to a Samaritan woman. The official, whose son is sick, is often determined by commentators to be a Gentile. Salvation and the Lord’s help are for those who believe in Jesus and worship God in spirit and truth. This means having hearts of faith and actions consistent with the teachings of the King. All who commit to these things have eternal life, regardless of nationality or background.
- Jesus initiates a conversation with a woman in an uncomfortable setting. Why did He do that and how can you be more like Him ?
Thought Questions
- 1Jesus initiates a conversation with a woman in an uncomfortable setting. Why did He do that and how can you be more like Him?
- 2True worshipers worship “in spirit and truth”. How do you make sure to do this righteously when it comes to worshiping God?
- 3The official believed Jesus and then his son was healed. Why is it crucial to believe the words of Jesus to be blessed by Him?