which our attention ought to be directed. Our experience may not tally with that of other believers. But that is not the question. Do we feel sin, hate it, and flee from it ? Do we love Christ, and rest solely on Him for sal- vation ? Are we bringing forth fruits of the Spirit in righteousness and true holiness ? If these things are so wo may thank God, and take courage.
Notes. John IV. 31 — 42.
31. — {In the mean while.] This expression means " during the time when the Samaritans were coming out of the city to the well," between the time when the woman went her way, and the time when her fellow-countrymen, aroused by her testimony, appear- ed at the well. It is highly probable that they were already in sight.
[Prayed.] The Greek word so rendered is remarkable. It is frequently used to convey the idea of '' asking, or making in- quiry." It is a curious fact that it is not used in describing any person's address to God in prayer, except in the case of our Lord Jesus Christ. (John xiv. 16 ; xvi. 26 ; xvii. 9, 15, 20.) There is one remarkable instance where it seems to be used in describing a believer's prayer. (1 John v. 16.) But this instance stands so entirely alone that it is probable the meaning is not "pray," but " make curious inquiry."
[Master, eat] The difference between our Lord and His dis- ciples appears here in a striking manner. Their weak minds were preoccupied with the idea of food and bodily sustenance. His heart was filled with the great object of His ministry, " do- ing good to souls." It is a striking illustration of a difference that may frequently be seen between a believer of great grace and a believer of little grace. The latter, with the best possible intentions, will oflen attach an importance to bodily and tem- poral things, with which the strong behever will feel no sym- pathy. 32. — [I have meat, &c.] The meaning of our Lord's words in this verse must evidently be figurative. He had soul-nourishment and soul-sustenance of which His disciples were ignorant. He fi.und such refreshment in doing good to ignorant souls that for the time present He did not feel bodily hunger.
There is no neces-ity for supposing that our Lord referred to any miraculous supply of His bodily wants in this pl;'ce. His words appear to me only to indicate that He found such delight and comfort in doing good to souls, that it was as good as meat
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