Discussion Questions
Consider again: Why do you think John placed this story where he did in his gospel account of Jesus’ life and ministry? Do you think that John had more than just chronological considerations in mind?
Why is it so important for Jesus to reveal to this woman the depths of her sin? Even though it’s uncomfortable, why must we necessarily understand our sinfulness as well? What is thedanger of thinking too lightly of our own sin?
It would be helpful to be honest in admitting what wells you are tempted to worship from the most and ask one another to pray for you that you would find satisfaction in Jesus rather than in idols that cannot satisfy.
Are you at all challenged by Jesus’ boldness to confront her sin the very first time he interacts with the woman at the well? What should we learn from this approach? Are there any dangerous pitfalls we should be mindful to avoid with this approach?
Why does the woman at the well attempt to change the subject in verses 19-20, and what does Jesus do when she makes her attempt in verses 21-24?
Re-read verses 21-24 as a group and ask yourself what the core truth is that Jesus is teaching this woman about God.
How do verses 25-26 point to John 20:31? What personal implications should this have for us who are already believers?
How is the core message of Christianity a call to worship Jesus Christ? What should such worship look like in our day to day lives?