This song was inspired by John chapter 4, when Jesus spends time with a Samaritan woman. He breaks all social norms by speaking with a woman from a region that was looked down upon by the Jewish people. Jesus tells her that if she were to ask Him for a drink of water, He would give her “living water” (verse 10), satisfying her deep spiritual needs and “springing up into eternal life” (verse 14).

The woman recognizes that Jesus prophetically knows about her troubled past and her relationships with multiple men. Jesus is not put off by her behavior or her ethnicity. He cares about her enough to offer her an amazing relationship with Himself. He shows her that He is much more than a prophet. He explains to her that the only way to worship God is in spirit and truth. She recognizes that only the Messiah, God’s anointed Savior, would know such deep truths. When Jesus reveals that He is the Lord’s anointed, she must surely have fallen to her knees in awe. Initially, she is surprised that He actually speaks to her. How much more amazed she must be when she discovers who He is!

The song *Marvelous, Wonderful Jesus* expresses her delight at being approached by Jesus and being offered a relationship with Him that would transform her life far more than a physical drink of water. Without fresh water, she could not survive. With Jesus’ water, she would not only survive but thrive in a relationship with Him for all eternity. Her sins were forgiven by Jesus, the Creator and Savior. Her enthusiasm bubbled over and led her to tell her neighbors all about the One who knew everything about her. The woman’s excitement had an impact on many others, who undoubtedly saw a change in her after her encounter with Jesus. They too rushed to meet Him, and many believed because of His own word (verse 41).

Have you received the abundant new life that Jesus offers you? He wants us to be forgiven and refreshed by Him. His Spirit lives in all true believers when we accept the “water” He offers us. Do you want to stay the same, or do you believe that the marvelous, wonderful Jesus can transform your life and that of your neighbors and family too? He is the Lord of all, and He loves us just as He loved the Samaritan woman.

If you would like to read the full passage for yourself, see John 4:1–42.