John 7:1–39 · Come to Jesus and receive the Spirit—rivers of living water.
Big Idea: Jesus offers rivers of living water. Do you believe?
Summary
At the Feast of Booths (a joyful, citywide “camping” festival), opinions about Jesus are sharply divided—some oppose Him, some are curious, some believe. Mid-feast, Jesus teaches openly in the temple and exposes empty judgment. Then on the climactic last day, during the water-pouring ceremonies, He cries out: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me… out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” John explains He was speaking about the Holy Spirit, who would be given after Jesus was glorified.
Context You’ll Feel in the Passage
- The Feast: Booths reminded Israel of wilderness dependence and God’s provision—daily water and light. Jesus picks up both themes (7:37–39; 8:12).
- Belief is a mixed bag: Brothers doubt, leaders plot, crowds debate, and yet many believe (7:5, 12–13, 31).
- Glory through the cross: The Spirit is poured out after Jesus is “glorified”—cross, resurrection, ascension (7:39).
Two Gifts in Jesus’s Invitation
1) Salvation — Rest
“Come to me and drink.” Thirst is soul-deep. In Christ you are fully forgiven and finally secure. Because you didn’t earn it, you can rest in it. Let assurance quiet the inner scorekeeper.
2) Satisfaction — Seek
“Rivers of living water.” Not a sip but a spring. The Spirit indwells believers to renew, gladden, and overflow to others. Don’t settle for sinful shortcuts or spiritual autopilot—seek satisfaction in Jesus.
How to Seek Living-Water Joy
- Sing: Offer God your voice each day. Worship stirs affection and reorders love.
- Think: Linger over Scripture. Meditate on who Jesus is and what He’s done.
- Obey: He is Lord, not advisor. Ordinary obedience opens extraordinary joy.
Expectation — You
You are surrounded by thirsty people. Do you believe God is still saving sinners here? The Spirit’s river is meant to flow through you.
- Pray for your One: Name one person and pray daily for open doors and a soft heart.
- Make space: Share a table. Listen well. Tell how Jesus has met your thirst.
- Trust the timing: Jesus moved by the Father’s timing (7:6–10). So do we.
Questions for Reflection
- Where are you seeking relief more than Jesus Himself? What would “coming to Him” look like today?
- Are you resting in Christ’s finished work—or secretly trying to re-earn what He already gave?
- Which practice (sing, think, obey) do you need to renew this week?
- Who is your “one,” and what is your next bold, kind step toward them?
This Week’s Practices
- Morning drink: Before coffee or phone, pray Psalm 63:1 and read John 7:37–39.
- Midweek worship: Sing one song aloud to Jesus (in the car counts!).
- Obedience on purpose: Choose one clear command of Jesus and do it today.
Pray
Lord Jesus, Fountain of life, I come thirsty. Give me Your Spirit afresh. Let Your living water satisfy me and overflow through me to others. Keep me near Your cross, steady in Your love, bold in Your mission. Amen.