Sabbath School - Meat In Due Season Advanced Commentary - SS-Q4-L5 - The Testimony of the Samaritans

Sabbath School - Meat In Due Season Advanced Commentary

Sabbath Afternoon - October 26, 2024

Scripture Reading for the Week:
John 4:1-42; John 3:26-30; Jeremiah 2:13; Zechariah 14:8; Ezekiel 36:25-27.

Thought for Meditation:

The most important discourse that Inspiration has given us, Christ preached to only one listener. As He sat upon the well to rest, for He was weary, a Samaritan woman came to draw water; He saw an opportunity to reach her mind, and through her to reach the minds of the Samaritans, who were in great darkness and error. Although weary, He presented the truths of His spiritual kingdom, which charmed the heathen woman and filled her with admiration for Christ. She went forth publishing the news: "Come, see a man which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?" This woman's testimony converted many to a belief in Christ. Through her report, many came to hear Him for themselves and believed because of His own word. {3T 217.3} Testimonies for the Church volume 3, 1872-1875

Memory Text:

“Then they said to the woman, ‘Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world’ ” (John 4:42).

This week's SS Lesson will describe how those enemies of the Jews became witnesses for Christ through their testimonies - their encounter with the source of life. This includes the powerful demonstration of a changed life by proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God.

Study Outline:

Jews and Samaritans

Sunday - October 27, 2024

The Story of the Samaritan - The Setting of the Encounter

John 4:1-4, 5-9, 1-54; 3:26-30; 3:1-36,

Monday - October 28, 2024

The Samaritan Woman and the Thirsty Jew - The Woman at the Well

John 4:7-15; John 7:37-38; Jeremiah 2:13; Zechariah 14:8

The Samaritan Accept the Saviour

Tuesday - October 29, 2024

Thirst for the Living Water - Sir, Give Me This Water

Ezekiel 36:25-27; John 4:15, 16.

Wednesday - October 30, 2024

Discovering the Saviour - The Revelation of Jesus

John 4:16-24; John 4:25-26.

Thursday - October 31, 2024

Proclaiming the Saviour - The Testimony of the Samaritans

John 4:27-29; 30-42.

Friday - November 1, 2024

Insights and Further Study

From the Pen of Inspiration

Points to Ponder Upon

Jews and Samaritans

Sunday - October 27, 2024

The Story of the Samaritan - The Setting of the Encounter

John 4:1-4, 5-9, 1-54; 3:26-30; 3:1-36,

“Now it was necessary for him to pass through Samaria” (John 4:4)

The Nature of True Religion Illustrated

In the story of the good Samaritan, Christ illustrates the nature of true religion. He shows that it consists not in systems, creeds, or rites, but in the performance of loving deeds, in bringing the greatest good to others, in genuine goodness. . . . The lesson is no less needed in the world today than when it fell from the lips of Jesus. Selfishness and cold formality have well-nigh extinguished the fire of love and dispelled the graces that should make fragrant the character. Many who profess His name have lost sight of the fact that Christians are to represent Christ. Unless there is practical self-sacrifice for the good of others, in the family circle, in the neighborhood, in the church, and wherever we may be, then whatever our profession we are not Christians.--The Desire of Ages, pp. 497, 504. {WM 42.1} Welcome Ministry, 1952

The Fulfillment of the Law is Illustrated and made Manifest

All this is but a fulfillment of the principle of the law,--the principle that is illustrated in the story of the good Samaritan, and made manifest in the life of Jesus. His character reveals the true significance of the law, and shows what is meant by loving our neighbor as ourselves. And when the children of God manifest mercy, kindness, and love toward all men, they also are witnessing to the character of the statutes of heaven. They are bearing testimony to the fact that "the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul." Psalm 19:7. And whoever fails to manifest this love is breaking the law which he professes to revere. For the spirit we manifest toward our brethren declares what is our spirit toward God. The love of God in the heart is the only spring of love toward our neighbor. "If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?" Beloved, "if we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us." 1 John 4:20, 12. {DA 505.1} Desire of Ages, 1898

Many Believed in Jesus' Words - Harvested after the Sowing

Jesus knew that at the report of the woman many, out of curiosity, would come to see and to hear him, and that many would believe on him, and drink of the water of life that he should give them. "And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did. So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them; and he abode there two days. And many more believed because of his own word; and said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying; for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world." Thus the harvest came speedily after the sowing; for the Holy Spirit had impressed the truth upon the hearts of the Samaritans. {RH, January 28, 1896 par. 3} The Review and Herald

Consider the Following

The story of the Samaritans. John 4:1-7.

— To avoid tensions between John's followers and his own, Jesus decides to go from Judea to Galilee, passing through the region of Samaria (Jn. 4:1-4).

— On the way, Jesus stops about a mile from Sychar, where Jacob had bought a piece of land that he had given as an inheritance to Joseph (John 4:5; Gen. 33:18-19; Josh. 24:32). Once there, Jesus sits down by Jacob's well. It was midday, the hottest time of the day (John 4:6).

— While the disciples go to buy food, a Samaritan woman comes to the well to draw water. She hides from the others, she does not want to be seen or to associate with the other women who, early in the morning or at dusk, go to draw water (John 4:7-8).

— Prejudices raised by so many centuries of history prevent women from speaking or offering their water to a Jew.

— What are some prejudices in your own culture that might hinder your witness to others? How can you overcome them?

Monday - October 28, 2024

The Samaritan Woman and the Thirsty Jew - The Woman at the Well

John 4:7-15; John 7:37-38; Jeremiah 2:13; Zechariah 14:8

“The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans)” (John 4:9)

Whosoever Drinketh the Water He Gives Shall Never Thirst

Christ said to the Samaritan woman, "If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. . . . Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." Thus is presented the experience of the thankful heart. It continually overflows in blessings to others. {17MR 43.3} Manuscript Releases Volume 17

If Any Man is Thirsty, Come Unto Me and Drink

Not long since, Christ had pointed a Samaritan to the water of life. "Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give Him," He had said, "shall never thirst." But now it was not merely one whom He was inviting. The temple courts were crowded as Jesus suddenly lifted up His voice on "that great day of the feast," and said: "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believeth on Me, as the Scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." {18MR 89.3} Manuscript Releases volume 18

The Water is the Revelation of His Grace in His Word - His Spirit, His Teaching, and His Love

What said Christ to the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well? . . . "Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life" (John 4:13, 14). {RC 109.2}

The water to which Christ referred was the revelation of His grace in His Word. His spirit, His teaching, His love is as a satisfying fountain to every soul. Every other source to which men resort proves unsatisfying; but the Word of truth is as cool streams, represented as the waters of Lebanon, which are always satisfying. In Christ is fullness of joy forevermore. The pleasures and amusements of the world are never satisfying, or healing to the soul. But Jesus says, "Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life." {RC 109.3} Reflecting Christ, 1985

Consider the Following

The Samaritan woman and the thirsty Jew. John 4:7-14.

— Since the woman was not willing to engage in conversation, Jesus decides to break the ice by asking for a favor: “Give me a drink” (Jn. 4:7).

— In response, the Samaritan woman reminds him of the two reasons why Jesus should not ask her for favors, or even speak to her: she was a woman and a Samaritan (Jn. 4:9).

— At least he had managed to start the conversation. As with Nicodemus, Jesus got straight to the point: “I am someone special, and I can give you water to quench all thirst” (John 4:10).

— Like Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman intended to interpret his words literally (John 4:11-12). Jesus kindled in her the desire to obtain that living water (John 4:13-15).

— Are you thirsty for the water that quenches the thirst of your soul? Jesus offers it freely (Rev. 21:6)

The Samaritan Accept the Saviour

Tuesday - October 29, 2024

Thirst for the Living Water - Sir, Give Me this Water

John 1:35-39;

“The woman said to him, ‘Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.’ ” (John 4:15)

Those who received the Truth Testifies that Christ is the Saviour

The disciples were encouraged, as they saw the readiness of the Samaritans to receive the truth. They had regarded this field as a very hard field, and yet they saw men acknowledging the words of the Master, and believing on him for themselves. This lesson is for our encouragement as well, and while there are many who will not yield to the convicting power of God's Spirit, there are also many who are hungering for the words of light and salvation. Many will receive the truth, and testify, as did the Samaritans, that Christ is the Saviour of the world. In their turn, they will become sowers of the seed of truth. We are to lift up our eyes, and look upon the fields that are white already for the harvest. For years we have passed by the Southern field, and have looked upon the colored race, feebly deploring their condition; but our eyes have been fastened upon more promising fields. But now God's people should lift up their eyes, and look upon this destitute field that has not been worked. The missionary spirit must prevail, if we form characters after the pattern, Christ Jesus. We are to love our neighbors as ourselves, and the colored people, in the sight of God, are our neighbors. It is not enough for us merely to look on and deplore the discouraging appearance of the field, and then pass by on the other side, and do nothing. Unitedly and interestedly we must take hold of the work. We are not only to look upon the fields, but we are to reap, and gather fruit unto life eternal. {RH, January 28, 1896 par. 4} The Review and Herald

The Strong Antipathy Between the Jews and Samaritans was Broken

The great difference between the Jews and the Samaritans was a difference in religious belief, a question as to what constitutes true worship. The Pharisees would say nothing good of the Samaritans, but poured their bitterest curses upon them. So strong was the antipathy between the Jews and the Samaritans that to the Samaritan woman it seemed a strange thing for Christ to ask her for a drink. "How is it," she said, "that Thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria?" "For," adds the evangelist, "the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans." {COL 380.3} Christ's Object Lesson, 1900

The Good Samaritan Represent Christ - The Fulfillment of the Law

The Samaritan had fulfilled the command, "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself," thus showing that he was more righteous than those by whom he was denounced. Risking his own life, he had treated the wounded man as his brother. This Samaritan represents Christ. Our Saviour manifested for us a love that the love of man can never equal. When we were bruised and dying, He had pity upon us. He did not pass us by on the other side, and leave us, helpless and hopeless, to perish. He did not remain in His holy, happy home, where He was beloved by all the heavenly host. He beheld our sore need, He undertook our case, and identified His interests with those of humanity. He died to save His enemies. He prayed for His murderers. Pointing to His own example, He says to His followers, "These things I command you, that ye love one another"; "as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." John 15:17; 13:34. {COL 381.1} Christ's Object Lessons, 1900

Consider the Following

Thirst for living water. John 4:15-16.

— When He got the woman’s attention, Jesus did not directly answer her request. If she wanted the living water, she had to come with her “husband” (John 4:16).

— Suddenly, all his sins flashed through his mind.

— How do you react when God confronts you with your sin? Do you avoid the situation, or do you hand it over to Him for forgiveness?

Wednesday - October 30, 2024

Discovering the Saviour - The Revelation of Jesus

John 1:43-46;

“The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he” (John 4:25-26)

The Salvation is of the Jew for the Messiah will Appear from them.

In answer to the woman, Jesus said, "Believe Me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews." Jesus had shown that He was free from Jewish prejudice against the Samaritans. Now He sought to break down the prejudice of this Samaritan against the Jews. While referring to the fact that the faith of the Samaritans was corrupted with idolatry, He declared that the great truths of redemption had been committed to the Jews, and that from among them the Messiah was to appear. In the Sacred Writings they had a clear presentation of the character of God and the principles of His government. Jesus classed Himself with the Jews as those to whom God had given a knowledge of Himself. {DA 188.4} The Desire of Ages, 1898

The Kingdom Presented, Charmed the Woman, then Published the News

One of the most important discourses Inspiration has given us, Christ preached to only one listener. As he sat by the well to rest, a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and he saw an opportunity to reach her mind, and through her to reach the minds of the Samaritans, who were in great darkness and error. Although weary, he presented the truths of his spiritual kingdom, which charmed the heathen woman, and filled her with admiration for Christ. She went out publishing the news, "Come, see a man which told me all things that ever I did; is not this the Christ?" Her testimony converted many to a belief in Jesus as the Messiah, and through her report many came to hear for themselves, and believed because of his own word. {SW, July 21, 1908 par. 6} The Watchman

Consider the Following

Discovering the Savior. John 4:17-26.

— The first reaction was denial: “I have no husband” (John 4:17). But Jesus showed her that he knew her intimate life. At this, the woman recognized him as a prophet (John 4:17-19).

— For the second time, the woman attempted to avoid any reference to her sin, leading Jesus into a theological dispute over whether they should worship in the temple in Jerusalem, or on the ruins of the temple on Mount Gerizim (John 4:20).

— Patiently, Jesus answered her question and led her to decide to be a true worshiper of God (Jn. 4:21-24) .

— Now, the Samaritan woman asked Jesus for a clarification that expressed her thoughts: Was He a prophet, or the expected Messiah? (John 4:25). She was the only woman who heard Jesus declare Himself to be the Christ, the expected Messiah (John 4:26).

— How did you discover Christ and accept Him as your Savior?

Thursday - October 31, 2024

Proclaiming the Saviour - The Testimony of the Samaritans

John 4:27-29; 30-42.

"Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” (John 4:29)

Miracles have no Effect on the Jews, but the Samaritan Woman Believed Christ's Words

The woman of Samaria who came and listened to Christ--she accepted Him without miracles at all, because she believed His word. She was glad for the light and went and published it to her neighbors. Here were the very ones who were hated of the Jews. The Samaritans were receiving the light. When Christ came to the Jews with all the power of His majesty, all His grace manifested in mighty healings and in the mighty out-pouring of His Spirit, they would not recognize that. Well, why? Because the very same prejudices that had been in their hearts reigned there, and the most mighty miracles that He could do would have no effect on their hearts at all. {1SAT 141.1} Sermons and Talks Volume 1, 1990.

The Conversion of the Samaritans are Object Lessons to the Disciples

The coming of these people to Christ was an object lesson to the disciples, and it should teach important lessons to all who are interested in the salvation of souls. "Many of the Samaritans of that city believed on Him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all things that ever I did. So when the Samaritans were come unto Him, they besought Him that He would tarry with them: and He abode there two days. And many more believed because of His own word; and said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard Him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world" [verses 39-42]. {14MR 140.3} Manuscript Releases volume 14, 1990

All-Important Lesson of Meekness in the School of Christ

Women may accomplish a good work for God, if they will first learn the precious, all-important lesson of meekness in the school of Christ. They will be able to benefit humanity by presenting to them the all-sufficiency of Jesus. When each member of the church realizes his own individual responsibility, when he humbly takes up the work which presents itself before him, the work will go on to success. God has given to every man his work according to his several ability. {YRP 213.2} Ye Shall Receive Power, 1995

Consider the Following

Proclaiming the Savior. John 4:27-42.

— The disciples' arrival interrupts the conversation. The woman, filled with joy, forgets her water jar (the reason she went to the well) and returns to Sychar (John 4:27-28).

— Knowing what was going to happen next, Jesus prepared his disciples. First, he showed them that there is something more satisfying than physical food: the joy of sharing salvation with others (John 4:31-34).

— Second, He told them that they would reap what others had sown (John 4:35-38). The woman shared her testimony and planted the seed (John 4:29-30, 39). Jesus watered it and caused the harvest to sprout (John 4:40-42).

— Personal testimony is the best seed we can sow in people's hearts. How powerful is your testimony about what Jesus did in your life?

Friday - November 1, 2024

Insights and Further Study

Who among God's professing people will take up this sacred work, and labor for the souls who are perishing for lack of knowledge? The world must be warned. Many places are pointed out to me as in need of consecrated, faithful, untiring effort. Christ is opening the hearts and minds of many in our large cities. These need the truths of God's Word; and if we will come into a sacred nearness with Christ, and will seek to draw near to these people, impressions for good will be made. We need to wake up, and enter into sympathy with Christ and with our fellow men. The large and small cities, and places nigh and afar off, are to be worked, and worked intelligently. Never draw back. The Lord will make the right impressions upon hearts, if we will work in unison with His Spirit. {2SM 403.4} Selected Messages Book 2, 1958

From the Pen of Inspiration

“Christ recognized no distinction of nationality or rank or creed. The scribes and Pharisees desired to make a local and a national benefit of the gifts of heaven and to exclude the rest of God's family in the world. But Christ came to break down every wall of partition. He came to show that His gift of mercy and love is as unconfined as the air, the light, or the showers of rain that refresh the earth.

The life of Christ established a religion in which there is no caste, a religion by which Jew and Gentile, free and bond, are linked in a common brotherhood, equal before God. […] That which appealed to His heart was a soul thirsting for the waters of life.” EGW (The Ministry of Healing, pg. 25)

Points to Ponder Upon

Why the Jews hated the Samaritans? Who are the Samaritans?
What strategy did Jesus do to attract the attention of the Samaritan woman?
Does culture be set aside on the way to salvation?
What lesson does Christ's encounter with the woman relate to our time?
What kind of water did Jesus present to the woman, as referred to whom as mentioned in the Old Testament?
What breaks down the barrier of culture on the way to salvation?
Based on the statement above, {2SM 403.4}, what challenges does it say, and how do you respond to them?

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