Some people’s experience of Jesus is very striking. A woman by a well is told everything about her life by a stranger who is Jesus. On account of that, others in her town then also believe in him (John 4:39). It’s a wonderful outcome, but it isn’t ideal.
Far better if their faith is located more directly and personally in Jesus; far more secure. And that is, in fact, what happens:
he stayed two more days. And because of his words many more became believers. The said to the woman, ‘We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Saviour of the world.’ (John 4:40,41)
Your story of Jesus’ way in your life may indeed be memorable. Tell it to others, but always urge them to go beyond your story to the great Author himself. Your testimony may encourage them to believe but it cannot sustain their faith. They need Jesus.
(This feeds into a larger discussion about ‘signs’ in John’s Gospel but that discussion is for another time)
