39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all that I ever did.”
Following the interlude with the disciples (31-38), the scene shifts back to Samaritans to bring the story about them to a conclusion. There was a harvest of souls in Samaria (4:39-42). The response to the gospel was more positive by the Samaritans than the Jews.
39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him
Because of the woman’s testimony, many Samaritans believed on Jesus. This is the second statement about a group believing on Jesus. The first were those who believed at the Passover in Jerusalem (Jn 2:23).
because of the word of the woman who testified,
Normally the testimony of women carried little weight in first-century culture. Because of this woman’s reputation, she especially had little credibility. In the face of all this, her testimony carried great weight to the people of Samaria.
“He told me all that I ever did.”
Jesus had complete knowledge of the woman and her background. This made a profound impression on her.
PRINCIPLE:
Believing is based on a word, on communication of truth.
APPLICATION:
Belief is based on a word from Jesus (Jn 4:41). The simple testimony of the woman brought many to Christ. It is the simple message that brings conviction that Jesus and His message are true, not convoluted constructs.
Most success in evangelism depends primarily on simple testimony. We often underestimate the importance of human testimony about the gospel. The word of a fallen woman can make a big impact on the lives of others. God uses many different kinds of people to carry the gospel.
