November 20

"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."—John 4:41, 42.

THE narrative of the woman of Samaria, recorded in this chapter, is highly interesting. Jesus must needs go through Samaria, for he had a covenant engagement to fulfil there. The woman herself, being brought to a knowledge of the truth, felt desirous that others might participate with her. This is a good evidence of grace. See the result in the text.

THE CHARACTER OF THE REDEEMER. "The Christ, the Saviour of the world." This appellation is full of encouragement to the penitent sinner. Consider

What he saves from. From sin in its guilt, pollution, curse, power, and love; from the wrath of God, and the flames of hell. Here there is a remedy for every disease.

What he saves to. To holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Thus the Christian is made holy; his thoughts, desires, motives, and pursuits are associated with holiness. To the favor of God here, and the glories of heaven hereafter.

How he saves. By the efficacy of his death, and the power of his Spirit. By the one, the blessing is procured; by the other, it is applied. He saves effectually, willingly, freely, and to the uttermost.

Whom he saves. He is styled, "the Saviour of the world." This shows the extent of his blessings. Come, sinner, and rest on him. A simple-hearted, but spiritually-instructed minister was once earnestly expostulating with sinners, and inviting them to the Saviour, and he said, "Run with patience the race set before you;" but you say, I cannot run—then walk. "Walk humbly with thy God; but you say, I cannot walk—then stand. "Thus saith the Lord, "Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths;" but you say, I cannot stand—then crawl. "Fear not, thou worm, Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the Lord; but you say, I cannot crawl to him—then look. "Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is none else."

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