Come and See

Scripture: John 4:29 (ESV) – “Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ?”

After encountering Jesus, the Samaritan woman rushes into town to share her testimony. Her message is simple but powerful: “Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did.” She does not give a deep theological explanation or argue doctrine—she simply invites others to meet Jesus and consider for themselves whether He is the Messiah.

There appears to be a radical change in this woman’s heart. Just moments earlier, she had been avoiding people, coming to the well alone at noon, likely because of her shameful past. Now, she boldly runs into the very town she once avoided to share about Jesus. The grace of Christ had transformed her from an outcast to a witness.

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, points out several important lessons from this verse:

1. A true encounter with Jesus leads to a desire to share Him with others. The Samaritan woman did not keep the experience to herself—she immediately wanted others to know. This is the natural response of a heart changed by Christ.
2. Testimonies are powerful. She did not have all the answers, but she shared what she knew: Jesus had changed her life. Ryle emphasizes that a simple testimony, spoken with sincerity, can often lead more people to Christ than the most eloquent sermon.
3. She invites rather than argues. Instead of demanding belief, she says, “Can this be the Christ?” She invites people to come and see for themselves, allowing them to encounter Jesus personally.

For us, this verse challenges us to consider how we share our faith. Do we overcomplicate evangelism, waiting until we feel we know enough? The Samaritan woman reminds us that the most effective witness is often a simple invitation—sharing what Jesus has done in our lives and inviting others to experience Him for themselves.

Reflection Questions:

1. Why is the woman’s immediate response to tell others significant? What does this teach us about evangelism?
2. Are there people in your life whom you can invite to come and see Jesus—whether through sharing your testimony, reading Scripture together, or inviting them to church?
3. How does this verse encourage you to share your faith boldly, even if you don’t have all the answers?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for the power of a changed life. Help us to follow the example of the Samaritan woman, boldly sharing what You have done for us. Teach us not to overcomplicate evangelism but to simply invite others to come and see You. Give us hearts that desire to see people encounter Your grace, and remove any fear that keeps us from speaking about You. In Your name, Amen.

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This devotional is based on a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine and supplemented with insights from J.C. Ryle’s Expository Thoughts on the Gospels on John 4:29.