John moves in chapter four to the narrative of the Samaritan woman. Carson finds this a very unified passage (Carson 1991, 214). Jesus’ move through Samaria avoided considerable travel distance which would be caused by going through Gentile territory across the Jordan (Carson 1991, 216). Since the exile in Babylon Carson observes that Samaritans were not accepted by the Jews (Carson 1991, 216). Jesus’ interaction with a Samaritan woman was surprising on several levels. Carson notes the timing, the cultural barrier, and the matter of a man asking a favor of a woman (Carson 1991, 217). Jesus’ reference to “living” or “running” water is misunderstood by the woman. He is speaking of something she cannot grasp (Carson 1991, 219). By giving the Holy Spirit, Jesus shows he is able to satisfy thirst eternally (Carson 1991, 220). Carson notes that Jesus immediately moves to discuss the woman’s sin as the root of her spiritual thirst (Carson 1991, 221). As to the Samaritan woman’s abrupt change of topic in verse 20, Carson considers that it may not be an attempt at distraction. Having met a prophet it may be a very genuine question (Carson 1991, 222). Jesus’ response in verses 21-24 points to the non-local nature of salvation (Carson 1991, 222). Salvation is found in Jesus, not in a location. Jesus identifies himself as the true and clear revelation of God (Carson 1991, 225). The return of the disciples and departure of the woman in verses 27 and following does point out Jesus’ unusual action in speaking witha woman (Carson 1991, 227). Jesus’ emphasis to his disciples is on his intention to do the Father’s will. Carson sees this as the most clearly stated priority of Jesus (Carson 1991, 228). The work of Jesus brings in the time of harvest. Carson observes the propheteic significance of harvest and the importance of the one sowing as well as the one harvesting (Carson 1991, 230). The Samaritans, in vv. 40-42, believe first because of the woman’s testimony but then because of Jesus’ teaching. God’s promises are confirmed (Carson 1991, 231).
John 4:43-54 describes Jesus’ healing of an official’s son. Carson observes that this passage bears a good deal of similarity to Matthew 8:5-13 and Luke 7:2-10. There are also significant differences (Carson 1991, 233). The adult is a royal official with a son, not a servant, in need. It is not altogether clear to Carson and others what home of Jesus is referred to - Galilee or Nazareth - in verses 44-45. Carson notes numerous possibilities (Carson 1991, 235). Regardless, Carson observes Jesus was not honored as he deserved. The official, however, does seek help. His son is dying and he hopes Jesus can heal him (Carson 1991, 238). Jesus makes it clear that faith should be in him, not merely in miracles (Carson 1991, 239).
John 4:43-54 describes Jesus’ healing of an official’s son. Carson observes that this passage bears a good deal of similarity to Matthew 8:5-13 and Luke 7:2-10. There are also significant differences (Carson 1991, 233). The adult is a royal official with a son, not a servant, in need. It is not altogether clear to Carson and others what home of Jesus is referred to - Galilee or Nazareth - in verses 44-45. Carson notes numerous possibilities (Carson 1991, 235). Regardless, Carson observes Jesus was not honored as he deserved. The official, however, does seek help. His son is dying and he hopes Jesus can heal him (Carson 1991, 238). Jesus makes it clear that faith should be in him, not merely in miracles (Carson 1991, 239).
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