Jesus & the Woman of Samaria

October 12, 2024

John 4:1–42 · Only Jesus satisfies. No one is beyond His reach.

Big Idea: Everyone is beyond the need to earn grace—and no one is beyond the reach of grace.


Scripture

Read: John 4:1–42

What happened

  • “He had to go through Samaria.” (v.4) Jesus crosses ethnic, social, and moral barriers to seek the lost.
  • A weary Savior at a well. At noon, a Samaritan woman comes alone; Jesus asks her for a drink (v.6–9) and offers living water (v.10).
  • Sand vs. water. Earthly wells keep us thirsty; the water Jesus gives becomes a spring “welling up to eternal life” (v.13–14).
  • Truth with grace. “Go, call your husband…” Jesus names her story (five husbands; living with a sixth) yet moves her toward healing, not shame (v.16–18).
  • True worship. The Father seeks worshipers who worship “in spirit and truth” (v.23–24)—not a place, but a Person.
  • Clear revelation. “I who speak to you am he.” Jesus openly identifies Himself as the Messiah (v.26).
  • From outcast to evangelist. She leaves her jar, runs to town, and says, “Come, see…” Many believe because of her testimony, then because of His word (v.28–42).

Why it matters

  • Jesus pursues you. He “had to” go where others wouldn’t. He still does.
  • Only Jesus satisfies. Career, romance, approval, religion—sand for a thirsty soul. Christ is the fountain.
  • Grace tells the truth. Jesus exposes sin to heal it. Conviction is an invitation, not a condemnation.
  • Ordinary witnesses change cities. She didn’t wait for a degree—she met the Messiah and invited others.

Reflect

  • Where am I drawing from a “well” that never satisfies?
  • What barrier (bias, fear, busyness) keeps me from people Jesus loves?
  • What truth about my life is Jesus gently bringing into the light today?

Respond

  1. Ask & drink: Pray, “Jesus, give me Your living water. Satisfy my soul in You.” (v.10, 14)
  2. Bring it into the light: Confess one specific sin to Jesus and a trusted believer; receive His grace.
  3. Leave the jar: Identify one lesser “well” you’ll lay down this week (habit, pattern, idol).
  4. Say ‘Come and see’: Share your story with one person; invite them to church or to read John with you.

Watch the MessageJoin a LifegroupGive Online