John 4: 28 by John Newton (1779)
A narrative poem in eight sections that retells the meeting at the well, emphasizing the redemptive mission of Jesus. It opens with an affirmation of Christ’s self-sacrifice to rescue his lost flock from damnation. The poem then shifts focus to the encounter with a woman who initially comes to the well, marked by a history of inherited prejudice and narrow-minded zeal. Though raised to despise certain others, she is confronted with the transformative presence of Jesus, receiving an unexpected gift—the living water that quenches all spiritual thirst. The work details her journey from denial to revelation. Initially dismissive, she becomes open to his message. As Jesus offers her a drink without prompting, the act signifies the gift of grace that overcomes pre-existing biases and fills the void of sin. Her internal change is marked by remorse for past prejudices and an overwhelming relief found in forgiveness. This transformation compels her to share the news of redemption with her neighbours, symbolizing the spread of divine truth. In the latter stanzas, the poem draws a parallel with a personal spiritual awakening. The narrator confesses a past marked by superficial or misguided worship and a lack of true understanding. In encountering Jesus—a figure of unparalleled compassion and the fulfillment of prophecy—the narrator finds not only comprehensive forgiveness but also a calling to bear witness to the Saviour's work. This personal admission serves as both testimony and invitation: an urging for others to seek out this life-giving encounter and be forever changed. Central themes include the universality of grace, the breaking down of long-held prejudices, and the transformative power of encountering divine love. The narrative underscores the idea that true worship stems from a personal and unbidden experience with the divine—one that liberates individuals from sin and renews their purpose. The work encapsulates both the historical encounter of the woman at the well and the timeless call to recognize and embrace the salvation offered by Jesus.
By John Newton · First published 1779 · Genre: Christian Religious Poetry, Devotional Literature, Hymnody · 346 words
First lines
I: Jesus, to what didst thou submit, / To save thy dear-bought flock from hell!
Like a poor trav'ler see him sit / Athirst and weary by the well.
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John 4: 28 is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Newton, dated 1779 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Newton
- Date: 1779 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Christian Religious Poetry, Devotional Literature, Hymnody
- Length: 346 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Christian Religious Poetry — The work employs poetic structure to retell a Biblical narrative, emphasizing themes of faith, conversion, and redemption.
- Devotional Literature — The text is designed to inspire spiritual reflection and personal transformation, aligning with devotional traditions.
- Hymnody — Its lyrical and rhythmic qualities parallel those found in traditional hymns, reinforcing its use in worship and collective religious expression.
Tags
Christian · religious · spiritual · biblical · devotional · salvation · redemption · faith · scripture · transformation · grace · repentance