The woman didn't know it, but Jesus had an appointment with her. They would meet at Jacob's well - an historic site. Jesus would open the conversation with the subject of water - a predictable conversation. Or, was it? - A Jewish man talking to a Samaritan woman? - Living water that would remove thirst forever? - A full disclosure of her personal married life? - A discussion of the religious differences between Jews and Samaritans? - A personal revelation that Jesus is the Messiah? No, this was not a predictable conversation! John 4:22 gives us two important things to ponder:

"You worship what you do not know…" (John 4:22)

Ignorant worship is one of the most common problems of mankind throughout history (Acts 17:16-30). There was a time, in the beginning, when people knew the true God, but they chose not to remember and honor Him. They created substitutes for God with their imaginations. Their lies were passed on to their children and future descendants. It is still the prevalent problem today. See Romans 1:18-32; Psalm 115:1-8.

"…We know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews." (John 4:22)

Jesus did not say that the Jews can save us. He is telling us that salvation has come to us through the Jews. God has used them to bring us light that shines in the darkness of man-made gods, religion, and philosophy. Consider Genesis 12:1-3; Deuteronomy 7:6-8; Isaiah 60:1-3; Jeremiah 10:11-16.

Through the Jews we have the Scriptures (Romans 3:1-2). Through the Jews / Scriptures we have the explanation of our world; the meaning of life; the knowledge of right and wrong; the promises that give us hope; and the Messiah that fulfills all that is needed for our salvation (Romans 9:4-5; 11:25; 15:8-12).

Because of the work of God, through the Jews, we can worship the true God:

• The God of creation - Psalm 33:6; 96:1-8; 100:1-5; Hebrews 1:1-2; John 1:1-18 (note vs. 3,10); Ephesians 3:8-9; Colossians 1:12-19.


• The God of the Bible - Hebrews 1:1-2; cp. Psalm 68:11; Proverbs 2:6-22; Isaiah 55:6-11; Luke 24:44-48; II Timothy 3:16-17; II Peter 1:21.


• The God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob - Acts 3:1-26 (note vs. 13); Acts 6:8 - 7:60 (note 7:32); Acts 10:34-43; 24:14.


• The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ - Ephesians 1:3-11; II Corinthians 1:3; Galatians 1:3-4; I Peter 1:3-5 cp. John 5:22-24; I John 1:1-4; 2:21-23; 4:14; 5:9-21.