What is the meaning of John 4:23? But a time is coming and has now come Jesus tells the Samaritan woman that a brand-new era of worship is breaking in right before her eyes. • Old-covenant sacrifices centered on Jerusalem were about to give way to the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (John 2:19; Hebrews 10:19-20). • “The fullness of time” had arrived with the incarnation (Galatians 4:4-5). • Promises of a new covenant written on hearts were being fulfilled (Jeremiah 31:31-34). Because Jesus is present, the future has already begun; worship is no longer tied to a mountain but to the Messiah standing at the well. when the true worshipers The Lord draws a line between outward religion and genuine devotion. • Many honored God with lips while their hearts were far from Him (Isaiah 29:13; Matthew 15:8-9). • True worshipers are those whose hearts have been changed, not merely those who follow rituals (Romans 2:28-29). • Authenticity matters: God knows the difference between performance and devotion (1 Samuel 16:7). will worship the Father in spirit and in truth Two inseparable qualities mark acceptable worship. • In spirit – Empowered by the Holy Spirit, not confined to a place or ceremony (Philippians 3:3; Romans 8:15-16). – From the depths of a redeemed heart, expressing love, repentance, thanksgiving, and trust (Psalm 51:17). • In truth – Grounded in the revelation of God’s Word (John 17:17; Psalm 119:160). – Centered on Jesus, “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Practical outworking: • Engage Scripture so thoughts align with God’s truth. • Sing songs that reflect biblical doctrine. • Pray honestly, guided by the Spirit rather than rote formulas. • Obey what God has said; lived truth is worship (Romans 12:1). for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him God is not passive; He actively pursues people who will respond to His grace. • The Son “came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). • Believers are chosen and adopted for the praise of His glory (Ephesians 1:4-6). • Our love is a response to His first loving us (1 John 4:19). This divine initiative means everyone—Jew, Samaritan, or Gentile—may become a true worshiper through faith in Christ. The Father delights in hearts that echo His own holiness and truth. summary John 4:23 announces the dawning of the new covenant: with Jesus’ arrival, worship is no longer about sacred sites but about sacred hearts. God now gathers people who, by the Spirit and anchored in Scripture’s truth, adore Him genuinely. He Himself seeks such worshipers, inviting all who believe in Christ to draw near and glorify Him with authenticity and fidelity. |
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