Scripture: John 4:23 (ESV) – “But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.”
Jesus now shifts the focus from where worship happens to how it must be done. He tells the Samaritan woman that a new era of worship has arrived—one in which the external rituals and physical locations of worship will no longer define a person’s relationship with God. Instead, true worshipers will worship in spirit and truth. This kind of worship is not confined to the temple in Jerusalem or to any religious system, but is centered on a heart transformed by God’s Spirit and grounded in His truth.
John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, explains that worship in spirit means worship that comes from the heart, rather than from outward ceremonies alone. In the Old Covenant, worship involved sacrifices, rituals, and physical locations, but now, in the New Covenant, God desires genuine, heartfelt worship led by the Holy Spirit. Worship is no longer about external observances but about a real relationship with God.
Calvin also emphasizes that worship in truth means worshiping according to God’s revealed truth, not according to human traditions or personal ideas. Many people try to worship God in their own way, but Jesus makes it clear that true worship must be grounded in the truth of who God is and how He has revealed Himself—most fully in Christ. Worship apart from truth is empty and misguided.
Finally, Jesus tells the woman that the Father is seeking such worshipers. This is a powerful statement—God is actively looking for people who will worship Him with sincerity and understanding. Calvin notes that this invitation is open to all, regardless of background or past mistakes. The Samaritan woman, despite her history, is being invited into true worship through Jesus.
For us, this verse challenges us to examine the way we worship. Are we simply going through religious motions, or are we worshiping God with a sincere heart and in alignment with His truth? Worship is not about a place or a performance, but about a relationship with the living God.
Reflection Questions:
- What does it mean to worship God in spirit and truth? How is this different from worship based on rituals or traditions alone?
- How can you ensure that your worship is genuine and Spirit-led, rather than just a routine?
- What does it mean that the Father is seeking true worshipers? How does this invitation encourage you?
Prayer:
Lord God, You desire worship that comes from the heart and is grounded in truth. Help us to worship You not out of habit or obligation, but out of love and sincerity. Teach us to rely on Your Spirit and to anchor our worship in Your revealed truth. Thank You for inviting us to be true worshipers—may our lives reflect the adoration and devotion You deserve. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s Commentary on the Gospel of John on John 4:23.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 