Neville Goddard on John 4:9

Executive Summary

In the provided lectures, Neville Goddard does not offer a specific symbolic interpretation of John 4:9. He quotes the verse to establish the biblical narrative of Jesus meeting the woman of Samaria at the well. The woman's question, highlighting the social division between Jews and Samaritans, serves as a prelude to Jesus's introduction of a greater spiritual concept: 'living water'.

Key Concepts

• John 4:9 is presented as part of a direct scriptural narrative.
• The verse establishes a conflict or division: the woman of Samaria questions why Jesus, a Jew, would ask her for a drink, as their peoples do not associate.
• This interaction immediately precedes Jesus's offer of 'living water', which he would have given her had she known who he was and asked.

Detailed Explanation

Neville presents the story of Jesus at the well to illustrate a spiritual dialogue. The scene begins with Jesus asking the woman of Samaria for a drink. The woman's response, as quoted from John 4:9, is one of surprise and questioning. She points out the established social barrier between Jews and Samaritans, asking, "How is it that thou, being a Jew, asketh drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria?"

This question, rooted in the external world's divisions, sets the stage for Jesus's reply. He shifts the focus from the physical well and social customs to a spiritual reality. He tells her that if she knew who was speaking to her—the 'gift of God'—she would have been the one to ask, and he would have given her 'living water'. The source material uses this biblical exchange as a narrative framework but does not proceed to break down the specific symbolism of 'Jew', 'Samaritan', or the social 'dealings' mentioned in the verse.

Important Quotes

Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, asketh drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? For the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.

— Thinking Fourth-Dimensionally

Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.

— Thinking Fourth-Dimensionally

Related Concepts

The provided source material does not explicitly connect John 4:9 to Neville's broader teachings, such as the Law of Assumption or the nature of I AM. The verse is used strictly to recount the biblical story that introduces the concept of 'living water,' which is not further defined in these passages.

Common Misunderstandings

Based on these specific texts, there are no common misunderstandings to correct, as Neville does not offer an interpretation of John 4:9. He simply quotes it as part of a scriptural story.

Practical Applications

The provided source material does not offer any practical applications derived specifically from the woman's question in John 4:9. The focus of the narrative immediately shifts to Jesus's reply about 'living water'.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Neville Goddard say the division between 'Jews' and 'Samaritans' symbolizes in John 4:9?

In the source material provided, Neville Goddard quotes the verse mentioning the division but does not offer a symbolic interpretation of what 'Jews' or 'Samaritans' represent.

How does Neville use John 4:9 in his teaching?

He uses it to narrate the biblical encounter between Jesus and the woman at the well, setting the context for Jesus's subsequent offer of 'living water'.