Scripture: John 4:19 (ESV) – The woman said to him, “Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet.”
In this moment, the Samaritan woman realizes that Jesus is no ordinary man. Having just heard Him reveal details about her past that no stranger could possibly know, she acknowledges Him as a prophet—someone with divine insight. Though she does not yet fully grasp His identity as the Messiah, she begins to recognize that she is in the presence of someone who speaks for God.
John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, explains that this reaction, while a step forward, still falls short of true faith. The woman sees Jesus as a prophet, but not yet as the Christ. Calvin notes that many people, when confronted with God’s truth, acknowledge it superficially without fully embracing its implications. The woman’s words reflect an initial awakening, but she is still avoiding direct confrontation with her own spiritual condition. Instead of asking Jesus what His knowledge means for her, she will soon shift the conversation toward religious debate.
Calvin also highlights Jesus’ patience in this moment. He does not rush the woman toward immediate belief, but instead, He allows her to process what she is experiencing. This demonstrates how God often works in people’s hearts—gradually revealing truth and leading them to deeper understanding.
For us, this verse is a reminder that encountering Jesus always demands a response. Some may, like the woman, acknowledge His wisdom without fully surrendering to Him. But Jesus does not reveal truth just for intellectual recognition; He calls us to faith. As we come to see who He truly is, we must not stop at admiration—we must embrace Him as Lord and Savior.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think the Samaritan woman calls Jesus a prophet instead of immediately recognizing Him as the Messiah?
- Have you ever acknowledged Jesus intellectually without fully surrendering to Him? How did God lead you to deeper faith?
- How can you help others move beyond superficial recognition of Jesus to a true relationship with Him?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, we thank You for patiently revealing Yourself to us, even when we do not immediately understand. Help us to see You not just as a great teacher or prophet, but as our Savior and Lord. Remove any hesitation in our hearts and lead us to full faith in You. Give us the wisdom and patience to guide others into a deeper understanding of who You are. In Your name, Amen.
This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s Commentary on the Gospel of John on John 4:19.
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