Chapter Summary

Jesus and the Samaritan woman. The indwelling Spirit. The nobleman's son healed.

Discussion Questions for John, Chapter 4

1. Why is it important that "Jesus was not baptizing" (HCSB)? How does this shape your understanding of WHO should baptize? Why do you think Jesus was not baptizing people Himself?
2. Why did Jesus leave "Judea" rather than start a conflict between the Pharisees and other people? What does this teach you about using wisdom in our evangelism and ministry practices?
3. What is the significance of Jesus's interaction with the Samaritan woman? Why was this so culturally taboo for Jesus? In what ways does this inform how you should cross cultural barriers for the sake of the Gospel?
4. Why is it important to include the details that the Samaritan woman had many sexual partners? In what ways does this make her even more "unclean"? How does this change your view on interacting with those who live in debauchery and promiscuity?
5. What does the phrase "God is spirit" (HCSB) mean? What is the significance of the continued use of Trinitarian language? In what ways does this authenticate Jesus's identity?
6. Who is "Jacob" (HCSB) in this passage? Why is this genealogy important? What role do you think your own heritage plays in your current life circumstances?
7. It seems as if the Samaritan woman is not very surprised by Jesus's prophetic ability. Why do you think that is? How might the people of this day and age have been witnesses to supernatural events? What is a supernatural event that you have witnessed in your life?
8. How does it make you feel that the testimony of Jesus in this passage hinged on the testimony of an adulteress? What does this tell you about the nature of redemption in Christ? How have you experienced God's redemption?
9. How many times can you find the word "eternal" (HCSB) in this chapter? How does the concept of eternal life change the way that you view your own life and the people around you? How did it impact the woman at the well?
10. Why does Jesus choose to perform His second miracle back at Cana of Galilee? Compare and contrast the first and second miracle at Cana. What significance does the symbolism of each hold? Why do you think Jesus chose to heal the boy in this way, and what was the result?

Key Words/Phrase

Living water, v. 10.

Characters

Jesus, Holy Spirit, John the Baptist, Pharisees, Jacob, Joseph, woman of Samaria, her husband, nobleman, his son.

Strong Verse(s)

10, 14, 23, 24.