The woman at the well was convinced about Jesus, because He revealed all her past secrets (John 4:16-19).  She knew that she was known through and through - by a man who should have had no knowledge of her life (Psalm 139:1-4).  Such awareness is usually frightening to a woman whose vulnerability had been exposed.  But she had such an excited peace in her heart because it was obvious that the stranger cared about her, respected her and wanted God’s best for her (Jeremiah 29:11-12).

The possibility had dawned upon this woman that the only person who fitted the stranger’s unusual description, and claimed to give eternal water, would be God's Messiah: and Jesus said that He was the Messiah (John 4:25-26).  As she shared her thoughts, they became a rumour which spread quickly through the town (John 4:28-30).  It was obvious that she had believed in Jesus, and now others wanted to find out if it was all true.  They invited Him to stay with them, and He accepted their invitation (even though religious Jews would not normally want to eat in the homes of Samaritans).

Although there is no record of any miracles, many believed in Jesus because of what He said.  His words had a clear 'ring of truth' and He answered their questions with obvious integrity (John 6:68).  When two days had passed, they believed that Jesus was the Saviour of the world.  They had moved from hearing a convincing testimony to being personally convinced as they met the Lord.  Personal testimony is very important in drawing people's attention to Jesus.  Although everybody's testimony is different, the underlying message is always the same: 'Jesus knows me and cares for me; He is willing to forgive me, He wants me to belong to Him and so I have invited Him to be my Saviour'.

The woman had already made that journey, being willing to talk with Jesus by the well.  The others were alerted by her testimony but needed to hear the authentic truth of His words for themselves.  When they did, many also believed.  It is still the same today.  We should not be afraid of testifying that Jesus is our Saviour: but that is just the beginning for our friends and colleagues.  They also need to hear Him for themselves.  That is why we need to encourage them to read the Bible and let God speak to them.  As they do, those who believe will open their hearts and homes to the Saviour of the world.