Understanding John 4:6 - A Commentary Summary

Verse Context: John 4:6 states, "Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour." This verse is crucial in understanding the meeting between Jesus and the Samaritan woman, which is rich in theological implications and meaning.

Meaning and Insights from Commentaries

In exploring this verse, several public domain commentaries provide valuable perspectives that help unveil its significance. Below are insights from notable commentaries:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry highlights the humanity of Jesus in this verse. His sitting by the well signifies that, like us, He experienced physical fatigue, which underscores His incarnation and the reality of His earthly ministry. This moment at the sixth hour also symbolizes a time when customary activities began to quiet, creating an opportunity for meaningful conversation.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out the historical and theological importance of Jacob's well, noting its origins and significance to both Jews and Samaritans. This well represents the connection to their patriarchal heritage, enhancing the dialogue between Jesus and the Samaritan woman, and foreshadowing the living water He offers—a theme central to the chapter.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke elaborates on the symbolism of 'sixth hour' as it alludes to both the time of day and possibly a deeper spiritual meaning. He emphasizes that this time is significant in Jewish culture for drawing water, which can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual thirst that Jesus aims to quench during His encounter.

Thematic Connections and Cross-References

This verse is a vivid illustration of Jesus’ ministry and His approach to humanity. Below are several Bible cross-references that enhance the understanding of John 4:6:

• John 4:10: Jesus speaks of the living water that He offers, directly connecting to the weariness depicted in verse 6, as He answers spiritual thirst.
• John 7:37-38: This passage speaks again about living water, reinforcing the importance of John 4:6’s context of spiritual fulfillment.
• Genesis 24:11: This reference to Abraham’s servant drawing water connects the Old Testament narrative of wells and the search for a bride, paralleling the encounter of Jesus with the Samaritan woman.
• Isaiah 12:3: "With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation," links the act of drawing water with salvation, a theme Jesus introduces in His conversation.
• Matthew 11:28-30: Jesus invites the weary to come to Him for rest, aligning with His weariness and the offer of living water.
• Luke 9:58: Here, Jesus acknowledges the lack of comfort in His earthly ministry, a reflection of His weary journey at the well.
• John 3:16: This popular verse illustrates God’s love and the offering of eternal life, a theme that is presaged in the dialogue that begins at Jacob’s well.
• Jeremiah 2:13: This text contrasts the living water that Jesus offers with the broken cisterns of the world, enhancing the understanding of what Jesus means by spiritual sustenance.
• Acts 8:5-15: This reference to Philip preaching in Samaria emphasizes the significance of reaching out to the Samaritans, which echoes Jesus’ intentional encounter in John 4.
• Psalms 63:1: “O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you,” aligns with the theme of spiritual thirst evident in the interaction at the well.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Understanding the interconnectedness of Scripture can significantly enhance one’s Biblical study. Here are some tools and methodologies:

• Bible Concordance: A reference tool that provides a comprehensive list of words found in Scripture, allowing for cross-referencing based on keywords.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Various guides offer noted cross-references that aid in finding scripture interrelations.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Engaging in systematic study using cross-references can deepen comprehension of Biblical themes.
• Bible Chain References: This method connects verses thematically, showing how various scriptures interact with one another.
• Tools for Cross-Referencing: Online Bible platforms often have built-in cross-referencing capabilities that facilitate deeper study.

Conclusion

John 4:6 serves as a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry, reflecting both His humanity and the divine mission of offering spiritual sustenance. By linking this verse to others, one can appreciate the rich tapestry of Scripture, highlighting Jesus' intent to satisfy the deep, spiritual longings of the soul.