39 Many Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me all that I ever did.” 40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them, and he stayed there two days. 41 And many more believed because of his word. 42 They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.”
Personal Reflection and Discussion
1. When have you completely experienced another culture or family for longer than three days? What positive things did you take from that culture or community? How, if at all, did it negatively impact you?
2. As you reflect upon the story of the woman at the well (v 39-42), these passages would have you understand your vocation of loving your neighbor to mean….
3. Note that the people believed first because of the woman’s testimony (see Mk 5:19; Rom 10:14-17). Their belief grew when they invited him to stay (v 40) and was solidified by their personal experience with Jesus (v 42).
4. What can we do to help people not only hear “about” Jesus, but to experience Jesus for themselves?
5. Christ had us in mind through every trial and tribulation. Who do YOU have in mind? Any unbelievers?
6. What stops you from trying?
7. What is the cost for not trying? What is the blessing in doing so?
8. Give witness to what you know about Jesus. Give witness to how you have a relationship with Jesus. What is different about your two answers?
9. What is the difference between “believe in” and “belief of”?
Prayer
Jesus, this page suggests to me that it is not enough to simply tell or teach people “about” You. I need to be introducing people to You so that they get to know You for themselves. It is personally getting to know You, rather than merely knowing about You, that leads to having a relationship with You and a true hunger for more. -John 1:35-39
Greek Word of the Day
English Word: Believe | Transliterated Word: Pisteuo (pist-yoo-o)
To have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), credit, to entrust, have faith. More commonly used of words spoken and things, followed by the dative of the person whose words one believes and trusts in.
Family Engagement Activity
Today is a day to learn about a different culture. Choose a culture that is different from your own and take the day to learn about it. Here are a couple ideas to try: listen to music from other cultures (https://worldmusic.net/blogs/guide-to-world-music), have a night where you cook the food of a different culture, read some books or websites about other cultures, have your kids connect to kids from other cultures through penpalworld.com. Here is a great website for more ways you can learn about different cultures: https://www.naturespath.com/en-us/blog/15-activities-kids-learn-different-cultures/.
Going Activities To Consider
What cultures have you seen near you that you aren’t informed about? Do a little research on the demographics in your area and take some time to learn about their history.
OR
Mission trips are a great way to learn about others. Start doing some research now and find some time that you can block out for a week’s vacation to go on a mission trip with your church.
OR
Think of some people at Church or in your neighborhood that you really want to get to know better. Consider writing them a note. (You can ask Brandon Grelle for an address.) Send them a card letting them know that you would love to get to know them better and meet up for coffee or a drink just to talk. Even if they are unable to, at least you made an effort.