John Calvin Commentary John 4:27

"And upon this came his disciples; and they marvelled that he was speaking with a woman; yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why speakest thou with her?" — John 4:27 (ASV)

His disciples came, and wondered. That the disciples wondered, as the Evangelist relates, might have arisen from one of two causes: either they were offended at the lowly condition of the woman, or they considered that the Jews would be polluted if they engaged in conversation with the Samaritans.

Although both of these feelings stemmed from a devout reverence for their Master, they were still wrong to wonder at it as something improper, that he condescended to bestow such great honor on a woman who was utterly despised. For why did they not rather look at themselves? They would certainly have found no less reason to be astonished that they, who were men of no significance and almost the dregs of society, were raised to the highest rank of honor.

And yet, it is useful to observe what the Evangelist says—that they did not venture to ask a question. We are taught by their example that if anything in the works or words of God and of Christ is disagreeable to our feelings, we ought not to give ourselves free rein to murmur boldly, but should preserve a modest silence until what is hidden from us is revealed from heaven. The foundation of such modesty lies in the fear of God and in reverence for Christ.