2/1/14- Samaritans Believe John 4:39-42

39Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything I ever did.” 40So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. 41And because of his words many more became believers.

42They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (John 4:39-42)

Thoughts: There was a revival among the Samaritans!  This was not expected.  They had put up all walls against the Jews and the Jews had put up large barriers against the Samaritans.  Many Jews would avoid travelling through Samaria even if it meant going out of their way.  But Jesus cared about their souls- they were creatures of God too.  He not only visited but he stayed there to minister to them. He had an audience because of the woman at the well.  They described Jesus not only as the king of the Jews but "The Savior of the world."
    Christians do not need to put up walls against anyone.  Our Lord set the example of reaching those who others thought were unreachable.  This also shows that Jesus was not limiting himself to the Jewish religion but other religions and offshoots as well.  The Samaritans were to the Jews as the Jehovah Witnesses are to Christians today.  In some ways we are united in others we are separated.  But Jesus cares that all people know Him as Messiagh.  

Prayer: Give me a heart for those around me who are left out or alienated from you, O Lord.  Let my heart be as your heart. 

(Duccio Sienna)