Scripture: John 4:42 (ESV)
“They said to the woman, ‘It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.’”
This verse marks the climax of the Samaritan revival. What began with a woman’s testimony has now grown into personal conviction. The people of Sychar move from secondhand belief to firsthand faith. They are no longer relying on someone else’s word—they have encountered Jesus personally and now know who He is: not just a prophet, not just a teacher, but “the Savior of the world.”
John Calvin sees in this verse the essential path of all saving faith. He writes, “Faith is not firmly rooted until each person hears Christ for himself.” Calvin underscores the importance of personal engagement with Christ, warning that secondhand faith—while often a starting point—is not sufficient. True belief arises when a person encounters Christ directly through His Word and Spirit, and is inwardly persuaded of His divine truth and power.
J.C. Ryle likewise stresses the importance of personal conviction. “No faith is so satisfactory as that which is the result of seeing with our own eyes and hearing with our own ears.” Ryle celebrates the woman’s faithful witness, but he’s quick to point out that even the most powerful testimony must ultimately give way to a personal meeting with Christ. He also rejoices in the universality of the Samaritans’ declaration: Jesus is not merely the Savior of the Jews, but the Savior of the world—including the marginalized, the outsiders, and the least likely.
This verse reminds us of the goal of all gospel witness—not that others would remain dependent on our stories, but that they would come to know Jesus for themselves. Personal experience with Christ is essential. And when that happens, belief becomes unshakable, joy becomes deeper, and the confession becomes global: “This is indeed the Savior of the world.”
Reflection Questions:
- Have you moved from secondhand faith to firsthand conviction in Christ?
- In what ways have you personally “heard” and encountered Jesus through His Word and Spirit?
- How can your witness help others move from curiosity to conviction?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself as the Savior of the world. Thank You for drawing us beyond secondhand stories into personal relationship with You. Speak to us through Your Word, and open our eyes to see You clearly. Help us to lead others to You—not just through our testimony, but by pointing them to Your voice, Your truth, and Your saving power. May many come to know You for themselves, and boldly confess You as Lord and Savior. In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 