Scripture: John 4:39 (ESV)
“Many Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me all that I ever did.’”
In this verse, we see the power of personal testimony. The Samaritan woman, once an outcast, becomes an unlikely evangelist. Her encounter with Jesus was so transformative that her simple witness stirred faith in many. She didn’t preach a sermon or have theological training—she simply told the truth about what Jesus had done in her life. And many believed.
John Calvin marvels at the grace and wisdom of Christ in using this woman’s testimony to draw others. He writes, “It was by the wonderful guidance of God that her report produced such great fruit.” Calvin emphasizes that her words, though human and imperfect, were used by God to awaken faith in the hearts of others. He notes how striking it is that someone previously despised in her community became the vessel through whom many were drawn to Christ.
J.C. Ryle draws attention to the simplicity and authenticity of the woman’s witness. “There is no kind of ministry that God is more likely to bless than that of a simple telling of what we have found in Christ.” Ryle encourages believers not to underestimate the impact of personal experience shared with sincerity. The Samaritan woman wasn’t polished—but she was changed, and that made all the difference.
This verse reminds us that no one is too broken, too unqualified, or too unlikely to be used by God. Your story—of how Christ met you, convicted you, changed you—can be a means by which others come to believe. Evangelism isn’t always complicated; sometimes it’s as simple as telling others what Jesus has done for you.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you considered the power of your own story in pointing others to Christ?
- What might be holding you back from sharing your testimony more freely?
- Who in your life might be ready to hear how Jesus has changed you?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for using even the most unlikely people to bring others to You. Give us the courage to share our stories honestly and humbly. Remind us that it is not eloquence that changes hearts, but Your Spirit working through sincere testimony. May our lives reflect Your grace, and may our words point others to the hope we have found in You. In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 