John is a very thematic writer and in this section he develops another of his themes. Water: The Living Water, the water that springs up like a well to eternal life. He matches this later with Bread of Life. Jesus becomes these two things in John’s Gospel and in the context of John telling who He is. Of course Jesus says I am the Living Water and I am the Bread of Life. Watch for the bread and water themes.
John develops a little further the theme of Jesus, the One who knows people inside and out.
“Go and get your husband,” Jesus told her.
“I don’t have a husband,” the woman replied.
Jesus said, “You’re right! You don’t have a husband— for you have had five husbands, and you aren’t even married to the man you’re living with now. You certainly spoke the truth!”
John 4:16-18
All from meeting her for the first time at the well. This is Jesus. He looks right inside you and knows your deepest, darkest secrets and yet still loves you.
Notice it connects to the comment at the end of Chapter Two – “But Jesus Himself did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all, and because He had no need that anyone should witness concerning man, for He knew what was in man.”
A little comment on the side. The term “Man” is inclusive of women. Why else would Jesus fly in the face of Judaism to talk to a Samaritan WOMAN.
No wonder this woman then says “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet.” Wow perceptive woman. What else could you think? The guy has just looked right into her heart and told her intensely personal information about herself that He couldn’t have known naturally. This theme of Him being a prophet of course develops further. More on that – but another day.
Tip: Keep tracking all of John’s themes. It will open your eyes.
Ian Vail
Are you God’s child? Is there a family resemblance on your Father’s side?
Anon