CTG 0036

Continued from previous blogposts (CTG 0034 & CTG 0035) 

THE EFFECT OF A ONE-TO-ONE CONVERSATION AT SYCHAR 

While traveling, Jesus's disciples had gone into Sychar to find something to eat, while he rested at a well close by. They returned with some food for him, just as he was telling a Samaritan woman that he is the Christ (Messiah). 

She left her water jar beside the well and returned to the town, pondering whether the Jew she'd just met could possibly be the promised Messiah. 

Overcoming any embarrassment she may have been feeling, she shared her thoughts with everyone she met: "Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ (John 4:29 ESV)?"

Her description of the conversation she'd had with Jesus must have been very gripping, because the people responded by going to see Jesus. 

Meanwhile, his disciples tried to encourage him to eat something. But he was more interested in the effect his conversation with the woman was having on the inhabitants of Sychar. He encouraged his disciples to lift their eyes to see the "harvest" that was ready to be reaped, leading to eternal life for everyone who'd believe in him. 

In the middle of it all he was also teaching his followers about priorities and about the part they'd have in seeing others experience salvation. He'd already said: "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men (Matthew 4:19 ESV)."

The Samaritans invited Jesus to stay at Sychar. They wanted to know more. The couple of days that he spent there gave them the opportunity to listen to his words. And many came to their own conclusion about who he is. 

They said to the woman, "It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Saviour of the world (John 4:42 ESV)." 

Don't underestimate the ongoing and ever broadening effect a simple conversation about Jesus can have in the life and eternal destiny of others. 

FOR FURTHER READING

John 4