MESSIAH

Throughout the centuries, mankind has longed for a Saviour who would deliver them from this world of oppression and woe. All man’s attempts to purge sin and guilt ended in total failure. The Samaritan woman, who the Lord Jesus encountered at the well in Sychar, knew disappointment, having had a series of unfulfilling relationships. Based on Christ’s conversation with her, it is apparent that she longed for something more fulfilling than she had thus far experienced in life. However, although she wanted living water that would satisfy her she quickly became uncomfortable when the Lord turned His searching gaze to her personal background. In an effort to divert the conversation from herself, she brought up the topic of Messiah - the longed- for Deliverer who was awaited by Jew and Samaritan alike.

The term ‘Messiah’ stems from the Hebrew word for ‘anointing’; it means simply ‘Anointed One’. In Old Testament times the Lord gave certain officials to serve and guide the people of Israel. This group was composed of priests, kings and prophets, all of whom were anointed for their respective offices, Ex. 30. 30; 2 Sam. 5. 3; 1 Kgs. 19. 16. The Messiah was eagerly awaited as One who would be all three in one person.

The Samaritan woman’s remarks show that she and many others among her people were expecting this Messiah to dispel the mysteries of the universe and bring meaning to life, John 4. 25. Rather than be put off by the woman’s statement, the Lord Jesus seized on it, declaring Himself to be the long awaited Christ, which is the Greek term for ‘anointed one’, v. 26. This stunning revelation produced a complete turnabout in her thinking. She immediately left her water pot, and went to the city to tell her fellow townspeople of the great dignitary who now was in their vicinity. She no longer looked to the well for the quenching of her thirst for she had gained the living water from the Messiah. Instantly, the Lord banished her shame, fear, and confusion, showing that He would indeed give her all the spiritual sustenance and knowledge that she required. Her aimless manner of life was now replaced by devotion to the anointed Deliverer who came to reveal God to mankind.