21 Days in the Book of JohnSample

There are 5 Greek words in the New Testament used to describe miracles. The synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) mostly used “dunameis” which translates as “power”. John preferred to use the word “semeion” which translates as “signs”. These signs were not only done so that people would believe but also to point out a deeper spiritual truth.

Here are a few things I’d like to point out about Chapter 4:

1. When traveling from Jerusalem to Galilee, one would generally go through the Jordan Valley. Jesus went through Samaria instead. This would have been a harder walk as there were more hills, not to mention the Jews considered it an unclean area. The exact location of the well is known to be in the narrow valley between Mt. Ebal and Mt. Gerizim. We know this is historically accurate because it is the only well in the valley.
2. The Samaritan woman is the exact opposite of Nicodemus, whom we met in the last chapter. He was rich, and she was poor. He was a ruler, and she was an outcast. He was moral, and she was immoral. He sought Jesus, and Jesus sought the woman. This helps show no matter who you are Jesus desires to meet you.
3. When Jesus told the Nobleman that his son was healed, the nobleman took his time returning home. He displayed faith and not fear.
4. The disciples believed in Jesus when they saw the miracle of the water being turned into wine. The Nobleman’s family believed when they saw the miracle of his son being healed. The Samaritans, who were generally considered liars and drunks, believed without a sign!