How does John 4:39 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene John 4 records Jesus’ purposeful journey through Samaria, a region Jews normally avoided. There He meets a Samaritan woman, unveils her need, and reveals Himself as Messiah. Verse 39 captures the immediate result: “Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me everything I ever did.’” (John 4:39) Decades later Matthew 28:19-20 records Jesus’ parting mandate: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Key Parallels Between the Two Passages • Going beyond familiar borders – Jesus crosses cultural lines into Samaria. – The Great Commission commands movement toward “all nations,” not just comfortable circles. • A witness empowered by personal encounter – The Samaritan woman shares what Christ did for her, leading her town to faith. – Disciples are told to “teach them to observe all that I have commanded you,” which necessarily flows from firsthand obedience and experience. • Immediate fruit and continuing discipleship – Samaritans “believed” on the spot; Jesus stays two days, grounding their new faith (John 4:40-42). – Matthew highlights belief’s next steps: baptism and ongoing instruction. • Jesus’ presence guarantees effectiveness – In John 4 Christ physically remains with the Samaritans. – In Matthew 28 He promises to remain spiritually “always, to the very end of the age.” A Closer Look at the Samaritan Woman’s Witness • Simplicity: She tells exactly what happened—no polished presentation needed. • Honesty: Her testimony includes her broken past, proving divine knowledge and grace. • Urgency: She leaves her water jar (4:28), showing that spiritual priorities eclipse daily routines. • Influence: “Many believed” shows how God multiplies one voice surrendered to Him. This living illustration precedes the written Great Commission, demonstrating that ordinary believers equipped with genuine experience can bring entire communities to Christ. Lessons for Daily Obedience • Cross cultural, racial, and social boundaries with the gospel. • Share personal stories of Christ’s work; they open doors for biblical truth. • Invite hearers into deeper learning—belief must lead to baptism and obedience. • Depend on Christ’s constant presence; He remains the effective Agent of salvation (Acts 1:8). Supporting Scriptures • Acts 8:4-8: Scattered believers preach in Samaria, echoing both John 4 and Matthew 28. • Romans 10:14-15: Faith comes by hearing, underscoring the need for verbal witness. • 2 Corinthians 5:20: Believers serve as ambassadors, urging reconciliation with God. Summary John 4:39 displays the Great Commission in embryonic form. One transformed sinner gladly “goes,” testifies, and sees many believe, while Jesus stays to deepen their faith. Matthew 28:19-20 universalizes that pattern for every disciple in every age: go, proclaim, baptize, teach, and rely on the ever-present Lord. |
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