Stellar Keller on The Woman at The Well!
Jesus gives us “living water,” a spring welling up.
That doesn’t mean we don’t have sorrow, for we do — but underneath is an inextinguishable joy springing up, even in the midst of sorrow.
In describing Gandalf, Tolkein wrote:
I think “The Chosen” does a credible job — but I’ll give you a chance to weigh in!
The Sermon:
https://gospelinlife.com/downloads/the-gospel-and-the-outsider-6073/
The Transcript:
The_Good_News_and_the_Outsider_Transcript (1)
Sunday:
1. How has Jesus been the Living Water to you this week?
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 4:4-28
- This is a familiar text, but the Spirit makes it ever new. Did anything, in particular, stand out to you in this reading? If so what — and why?
- Jews avoided Samaria, but Jesus did not. What does this tell you about Him?
- For what reasons was the woman surprised that Jesus is talking to her?
- How can you see His motive in interacting with her in verse 10?
- What does she think he means, and how is this similar to Nicodemus’s reaction to his statement that you must be “born again?”
- What does He tell her about the water He is talking about in verses 13-14? Meditate on this and explain how you have experienced this “living water” in your Christian life. What insight do Tolkien’s words add to this? (See above)
- Some might think Jesus’ response to her asking for this water is a non-sequitur, but Keller says it is not. Can you see why not?
- In verses 19-26, what amazing things does Christ reveal to her?
- What genuine evidence of faith do you see in her in verses 27-28?
Tuesday: The Chosen
I have liked much of what The Chosen has done, though there have been episodes that I thought were far-fetched. But I have become cautious with my criticism for I am seeing people awakened from their slumber and who are seeing Jesus in a new and relevant way and I don’t want to smother that spark. When I spoke recently at a large funeral for a believer, I shared the gospel with many whom I suspected do not yet have a relationship with Jesus. Several came up to me and asked afterward if I had seen “The Chosen.” I realized it had awakened them and now they were hearing something similar from me. It does seem God is using it mightily. Having said that, any time we watch a biblical movie or read a biblical historical novel, we must be discerning, for they have added to what is written in Scripture. But because The Chosen is so very popular, I think it would be helpful to spend today discussing it, for our response may help or hurt others.
4. How do you feel about The Chosen? Have you known any individuals who have been impacted by it for good? Have you known any who have been hurt by it? Explain either.
5. What does John tell us in the very last verse of his gospel?
6. Watch the above portrayal of The Woman at the Well. What stood out to you that was added? Do you think that was probable or far-fetched?
7. How do you think the Lord would have you speak to others about this series if you feel led to speak at all?
Wednesday: The Free Gift of God
Listen to about the first 9 minutes of Keller’s message until he moves into “greatness.”
8. Keller summarizes this section like this “Jesus testifies to her, she testifies to her neighbors, and they to the world.” In your own life, how have you seen the rippling effects of evangelism for good?
9. How did Keller say most New Yorkers view evangelism? Why? What does he intend to show them?
10. How, according to Keller, what did people of that time think was necessary to receive the blessing of God? Why would this woman not meet those requirements?
11. In some ways, today, people still think salvation is a wage you earn instead of a gift you receive. Keller often speaks of needing to diffuse the idea that you are talking about morality when you speak to a secular person about Christianity. Have you experienced this? What might you say to diffuse this error?
12. Why do you need humility to receive the gospel?
13. Keller spoke about the difference between religious proselytizing and “good newsing.” What did he mean?
14. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
Thursday: Greatness & Process
Continue listening up to about minute 25 when he says “in the end He gets to Himself.”
15. How does Keller explain why Jesus asks the woman to go get her husband? What is He trying to show her?
16. How have you and do you try to quench your God-thirst with other things? What is the result?
17. What point was he making by quoting Albert Camus?
18. How is this Living Water greater than anything under the sun? Share what it means to you.
19. When someone says, “I’m glad this works for you,” what is he failing to understand? What illustration did he give?
20. Keller says the approach with the “insider” (Nicodemus) and the “outsider” (the Samaritan woman) couldn’t have been more different. How did Jesus approach them differently? What might we learn from this evangelistically?
21. What else stands out to you from this section and why?
Friday: Singleness
Listen to the end.
22. Keller says, “In the end, Jesus always gets to Himself.” How do you see Him doing that with the woman at the well?
I always remember the illustration Keller gave about going on a date with Jesus. After you have talked about yourself for a bit, Jesus would say, “Enough about you, we need to talk about Me.” So true. I realize as a speaker I have failed if they do not know who Jesus claimed to be and what He offers them. This is what our goal must be with those God puts in our path.
23. Keller says we must be courageously transparent about what Jesus means to us. How have you done this recently?
24. He also says we must always bring it back, not to experience but to Jesus. What does he mean?
25. Every other religion says to look to the rules — what does Jesus say?
26. In the close of this sermon, how does Keller bring it back to Jesus?
27. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
Saturday:
28. What is your take-a-way and why?
94 comments
1. How has Jesus been the Living Water to you this week?
We have been on vacation and out of sorts for sure (I guess that’s what vacay is all about, right?). I suppose the “Living water” is just that…the rest.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Always love The Chosen! The costuming is perfect; she is beautiful to me. I love how she runs away screaming about her meeting Him. So sweet!
Sunday:
1. How has Jesus been the Living Water to you this week?
This last week I found out some news and my first reaction was feeling hurt and left out by my good friend. Instead of wallowing in my hurt I turned to Jesus and He showed me the importance of having a forgiving attitude and to just give it to Him. I really felt a peace and joy in doing that. He spoke love and compassion into my heart and it was changed…He really does understand our hurts!
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The Tolkien quote really stood out to me after what I went through last week. I also loved The Chosen scene and the interaction between Jesus and the woman…He was so patient and kind to her.
What a good model you are, Sharon. Hurts from a good friend are so hard!
Sharon, I am sorry for your hurt, but appreciate you sharing. You are such a great example of a godly woman, giving it all to Him.
Oh, Sharon! Hurts by a good friend can be deep but we can give everything into the Lord’s hands. As you have said, He gave you forgiveness and that is a gift to you and to your friend.
3. Read John 4:4-28
This is a familiar text, but the Spirit makes it ever new. Did anything, in particular, stand out to you in this reading? If so what — and why?
““Sir,” the woman said, “you must be a prophet. So tell me, why is it that you Jews insist that Jerusalem is the only place of worship, while we Samaritans claim it is here at Mount Gerizim, where our ancestors worshiped?””
John 4:19-20 NLT
and,
“But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.””
John 4:14 NLT
I think it’s interesting that she brings up worship to Him. I only know worship in church and can’t imagine what her life would be like, honestly. Do I thirst for His Word? Do I understand what that means?
Jews avoided Samaria, but Jesus did not. What does this tell you about Him?
He includes everyone, even those who are tainted.
For what reasons was the woman surprised that Jesus is talking to her?
She is a Samaritan and He, a Jew.
How can you see His motive in interacting with her in verse 10?
He wants her to know God.
What does she think he means, and how is this similar to Nicodemus’s reaction to his statement that you must be “born again?”
She thinks He wants the physical water. She doesn’t understand the spiritual aspect of the water.
What does He tell her about the water He is talking about in verses 13-14? Meditate on this and explain how you have experienced this “living water” in your Christian life. What insight do Tolkien’s words add to this? (See above)
It will satisfy them and “bubble up” or continually flow within them. I like the Amplified translation:
“But whoever drinks the water that I give him will never be thirsty again. But the water that I give him will become in him a spring of water [satisfying his thirst for God] welling up [continually flowing, bubbling within him] to eternal life.””
John 4:14 AMP
Since I have truly turned back to God, in the last 15 years, I have longed to understand and know Him well. I am identified as one with Him. I cannot give that up. It is set in my heart. He is in my heart. I am His and He is mine. Even though I have pain some days, I know the truth. His truth. Yesterday was a struggle with our daughter. I beg Him to show me the way. I’m not sure He is there. I press on. I continue to search for the truth.
Some might think Jesus’ response to her asking for this water is a non-sequitur, but Keller says it is not. Can you see why not?
He is showing her who He is; how He knows her life without knowing her. It isn’t about Him.
In verses 19-26, what amazing things does Christ reveal to her?
He explains true worship in the Spirit not in a certain place. He reveals Himself as the Messiah. He says she will come to the Father through the Jews.
What genuine evidence of faith do you see in her in verses 27-28?
She left her water jugs and ran!
Do you think she might have been trying to change the subject when she brought up worship?
Ahhh, yes most likely.
Jews avoided Samaria, but Jesus did not. What does this tell you about Him? That boundaries and pleasing others would not stop Him from reaching people. I love He declared to her an outsider and woman that He was the Messiah
For what reasons was the woman surprised that Jesus is talking to her? She was Samaritan woman and He was a Jew.
How can you see His motive in interacting with her in verse 10?To offer her living water the gift of eternal life.
What does she think he means, and how is this similar to Nicodemus’s reaction to his statement that you must be “born again?” She wants to know how to get the living water. They didn’t understand what He was talking about and were looking for the physical not the spiritual.
What does He tell her about the water He is talking about in verses 13-14? Meditate on this and explain how you have experienced this “living water” in your Christian life. What insight do Tolkien’s words add to this? (See above) Holy Spirit. I am a different person and it comes from inside me and has nothing to do with me. He s just there trying to give me a better way to respond to life s challenges. That despite life s challenges there is a hope inside of us that can being the fruit of the Spirit.
Some might think Jesus’ response to her asking for this water is a non-sequitur, but Keller says it is not. Can you see why not? She s talking about getting living water and He is digging into her personal life. Her personal life is the suspected reason she came to well at noon and alone. She had a lot of rejection in her life and He wanted to give her a better path the living water.
In verses 19-26, what amazing things does Christ reveal to her? Salvation is from the Jews, we will worship the God in the Spirit and in truth. There will be true worshipers, the kind the Father seeks, Jesus is the Messiah.
What genuine evidence of faith do you see in her in verses 27-28? She left her water jar and went and told others. I think she left the jar because of her excitement and joy to go and tell others.
Great answers, Judy.
Sunday:
1. How has Jesus been the Living Water to you this week?
I have been at my daughter’s for the last 2 days now. Yesterday, I went with her for the first time to the church she has been attending for a few months. Although the woman pastor said, “In Jesus’ name” at the end of her prayers, nothing of Him was mentioned again in the songs. The visiting woman pastor read from the book of Matthew and elaborated on the parable of the sower. She kept on saying the words “good news”, but I never heard what she meant by it. There were some discussions about what is inside each one of us, the importance of community, etc. A lot was said about human efforts and it is up to us to make a difference. They are missing the “Living Water” that is available to us in Christ Jesus.
I was hoping my daughter would ask me what I thought of the service. But she didn’t. I did not feel right commenting. I feel really sad that my daughter is not in a truly Christian church. But God gave me hope and reminded me of Philippians 1:6. Despite the disappointment and sorrow, God gave me a grateful heart that I get to spend time with my daughter. `
2. What stands out to you from the above and why?
“That doesn’t mean we don’t have sorrow, for we do-but underneath is an inextinguishable joy spring up, even in the midst of sorrow.” I am reminded that my job is not based on my circumstances because I know that He is in control and I can leave the matter of my daughter to His loving, gracious, sovereign heart. I am confident my prayers for her are being heard and that God cares for her eternal destiny.
Will pray with you! God has other ways!
Bing, I pray with you that our Father will bring His message to your precious daughter. His ways are not are ways and we know His love for our children is so much more than even our love for them. And we love our children so deeply.
Bing, I admire your discipline in not commenting about the church service…so hard for us Mom’s but God is in control and you’re trusting Him😊.
Will continue to pray for Ruth, may the eyes of her heart be open to truth🙏
Thank you, ladies! I continue to see God changing me as I relate to my daughter. Less and less of my manipulative responses, more and more of seeing God being so gracious to her and to me. The God Hunts, Dee, are very precious to me. His hands are in everything.
3. Read John 4:4-28
This is a familiar text, but the Spirit makes it ever new. Did anything, in particular, stand out to you in this reading? If so what — and why?
Jesus “had to”… by noon (the hottest part of the day). Our meetings with Jesus are by divine appointments. He came to the well for the purpose of meeting the Samaritan woman.
Jews avoided Samaria, but Jesus did not. What does this tell you about Him?
Jesus does not show favoritism. Everyone is precious to Him.
For what reasons was the woman surprised that Jesus is talking to her?
Jesus was a Jew and she was a Samaritan
How can you see His motive in interacting with her in verse 10?
He wanted her to have Living Water which is Himself.
What does she think he means, and how is this similar to Nicodemus’s reaction to his statement that you must be “born again?”
She and Nicodemus literally interpreted what Jesus was saying. She thought Jesus knew where the source of the living water would be. Perhaps, like another well somewhere?
What does He tell her about the water He is talking about in verses 13-14? Meditate on this and explain how you have experienced this “living water” in your Christian life. What insight do Tolkien’s words add to this? (See above)
She will never be thirsty again. We will never be thirsty again. I will never be thirsty again. Thirst is a word that may refer to a need for water but it can also mean a strong desire or craving for something. I am reminded of our discussions here on idols and I think they can be the same thing. Thirst for knowledge, approval, control, and significance., etc I have been learning that nothing in this world can satisfy our thirsts. and as C. S. Lewis has said, ”
“If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.” Hope springs eternal; This world may give us sorrow but this world is temporal and so are our sorrows.
Some might think Jesus’ response to her asking for this water is a non-sequitur, but Keller says it is not. Can you see why not?
I believe that Jesus was leading her from physical water to spiritual water so it is non-sequitur.
In verses 19-26, what amazing things does Christ reveal to her?
The true place of worship and the type of worshipers that He is looking for. It is not a matter of place but of truth and spirit.
What genuine evidence of faith do you see in her in verses 27-28?
She acknowledged that Jesus, because of what He knew of her, is the Messiah. Her eyes were opened to the truth and she wanted to share it with others. She left her jar which could be her source of usefulness or significance. It did not matter to her anymore.
1. How has Jesus been the Living Water to you this week? He has given me a refreshing time spending with my children and grandchildren this weekend. All of the years of tears, prayers and frustration have been worth it. God has truly blessed me.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why? The Chosen clip. I could see the cynicism of the woman melting away as Jesus answered all of her questions and revealed himself to her.
Love both of your answers, Dawn.
Monday: The Text
3. Read John 4:4-28
A. This is a familiar text, but the Spirit makes it ever new. Did anything, in particular, stand out to you in this reading? If so what — and why? What stood out to me is that Jesus was on His way back to Galilee and verse 4 says, “He had to go through Samaria on the way.” He had a purpose and that was to bring the gospel to the Samaritan’s.
B. Jews avoided Samaria, but Jesus did not. What does this tell you about Him? That He was not a respecter of persons.
C. For what reasons was the woman surprised that Jesus is talking to her? He was a Jew and Jews refused to have anything to do with Samaritans.
D. How can you see His motive in interacting with her in verse 10? He wanted her to know Him and receive living water.
E. What does she think he means, and how is this similar to Nicodemus’s reaction to his statement that you must be “born again?” Just like Nicodemus couldn’t understand how he could back into his mother’s womb and be born again, she couldn’t understand where He could get living water because He didn’t have a rope or bucket and the well was deep.
F. What does He tell her about the water He is talking about in verses 13-14? Meditate on this and explain how you have experienced this “living water” in your Christian life. What insight do Tolkien’s words add to this? (See above) Those who drink the water that He was offering will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within a person, giving them eternal life. I have experienced it by continuously trusting in Him regardless of my circumstances. The insight that Tolkien’s words gives, is that even through times of suffering I know that He is by my side, He never leaves me or forsakes me and that gives me joy and has time and time again…living water!
G. Some might think Jesus’ response to her asking for this water is a non-sequitur, but Keller says it is not. Can you see why not? It’s not a non-sequitur because it logically follows what she is asking for…He offered her living water and she asks for it.
H. In verses 19-26, what amazing things does Christ reveal to her? That He is the Messiah.
I. What genuine evidence of faith do you see in her in verses 27-28? She left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone about Him.
What I appreciate about many of you, but see it so clearly here in Sharon, as that I know she knew all the answers to this familiar story, for she is so well-versed. Yet she knows that looking at Scripture, even really familiar Scripture, carefully can lead to “fresh manna.” I don’t know if you saw anything new here, but I loved that you are willing to dig again.
Sharon, I love this!!!She left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone about Him.
1. How has Jesus been the Living Water to you this week? Last week was so challenging, every day there was something overwhelming that came out of nowhere. I prayed for patience, for calm, for direction….yet, God is faithful and answered my prayers each time. And I saw Him, as each event led me to Trust Him more. This morning at 3 AM, I cried out to Him that I am done. Even when I pray for no more…more comes….and even when I have totally given up on every earthly thing, He returns. Praise Him.
2. What stands out to you from the above and why? Jesus was at the well to reveal Himself to the woman considered, by the Jews, to be the least important kind of person. He came to meet her. Her knew her. The living water is Spirit and Truth and all about the Heart.
Oh Patti, my heart breaks for the challenges you are having. This spoke volumes to me…” I saw Him, as each event led me to Trust Him.” Praying that you feel His arms of love wrapped around you during these difficult circumstances.
Thank you, Sharon. I am so grateful for our Father, who is consistently with us, no matter the circumstances. I do feel His presence. I am praying for wisdom and discernment daily. He is good and true to His Word and Promise.
Amen to Sharon’s prayer for you, dear Patti.
Thank you, Dee.
Patti…this: “and even when I have totally given up on every earthly thing, He returns. Praise Him.” Praise Him, indeed.
4. How do you feel about The Chosen? Have you known any individuals who have been impacted by it for good? Have you known any who have been hurt by it? Explain either. I’ve only watched season 1 and a few episodes of season 2, but I think it keeps your attention and presents Jesus as compassionate, kind, loving with a sense of humor I can’t think of anyone.
5. What does John tell us in the very last verse of his gospel? Jesus did many things. If it were all written down the whole world could not contain the books that could be written.
6. Watch the above portrayal of The Woman at the Well. What stood out to you that was added? Do you think that was probable or far-fetched? That He came to Samaria just for her. No, I think everything He did was deliberate
7. How do you think the Lord would have you speak to others about this series if you feel led to speak at all? That it’s worth watching. You can now see it weekly on CW
I meant to say this before. Thank you for putting the transcript with the sermon. I keep the pdf file open and read along as the sermon is playing. It REALLY helps as I am hard of hearing and Keller often tapers off or speaks really quickly when he gets excited about the point that he is making. Plus when I’m answering the questions, it’s much easier to skim the text than try to find the sound bite.
I will pass this along to the gal who does this for our church, Dawn.
Yes, Dee, please thank the transcriber for us! The transcription has been a big help for me.
Totally agree Dawn! Thank you to the transcriber 😉!
Amen to this, Dawn! Thank you, Dee. It really helps when Keller speaks quickly and I am not sure of all the words. So important in the meaning of his message.
Tuesday: The Chosen
4. How do you feel about The Chosen? There are episodes that I have enjoyed more than others. Really liked the episode with Nicodemus and the one we’re looking at this week. I have only seen the first season and a few in the second.
Have you known any individuals who have been impacted by it for good? Yes
Have you known any who have been hurt by it? Explain either. No, have no really discussed it with anyone.
5. What does John tell us in the very last verse of his gospel?
There were many other things Jesus did and were every one written down, he supposed the whole world couldn’t contain the books that would be written.
6. Watch the above portrayal of The Woman at the Well. What stood out to you that was added? Do you think that was probable or far-fetched?
What stood out to me that was added was Jesus named two of her husbands and what her marriages were like…the first one treated her badly and she left the second one. I think this could of been probable.
7. How do you think the Lord would have you speak to others about this series if you feel led to speak at all?
I would recommend what I’ve seen of it, but would stress that artistic license was used and reading the actual gospels is very important.
Great response I think to The Chosen.
3. Read John 4:4-28
This is a familiar text, but the Spirit makes it ever new. Did anything, in particular, stand out to you in this reading? If so what — and why? Verse 23 when Jesus says that the time is now here when people will no longer worship on this mountain or in Jerusalem, but in spirit and truth. This is the first time that I noticed where he was pretty much declaring that former Jewish practices were to end. On a side note: I wonder why devout Jews today who don’t believe that the Messiah has come, don’t sacrifice animals anymore or sleep outdoors during the festival of tents, yet they observe Passover and celebrate Bar/Bat Mitzvah (which I don’t think is in the bible)?
Jews avoided Samaria, but Jesus did not. What does this tell you about Him? That he is offering salvation for all people.
For what reasons was the woman surprised that Jesus is talking to her? Because she was a Samaritan and worse yet, a woman.
How can you see His motive in interacting with her in verse 10? He is offering her salvation. He is revealing himself to her.
What does she think he means, and how is this similar to Nicodemus’s reaction to his statement that you must be “born again?” She’s taking it literally, that she will never have to consume H2O again., just like Nicodemus asked how can he reenter his mother’s womb to be born again.
What does He tell her about the water He is talking about in verses 13-14? That the water that he offers is eternal and will continually quench her thirst. Meditate on this and explain how you have experienced this “living water” in your Christian life. Whenever my life sinks to its lowest, I know that I have a Savior and all of my hope is in Him! What insight do Tolkien’s words add to this? (See above) That no matter the outward appearance, troubles or experiences, deep down there is a spark of joy.
Some might think Jesus’ response to her asking for this water is a non-sequitur, but Keller says it is not. Can you see why not? Because he wasn’t giving a non-answer to her question, but THE answer.
In verses 19-26, what amazing things does Christ reveal to her? That he is the Messiah and that the old ways of worshiping God have changed.
What genuine evidence of faith do you see in her in verses 27-28? She stopped everything that she was doing and went to tell others about Christ, not caring what they thought of her or whether she would be believed or not. She just wanted to spread the Good News!
Interesting questions on Jewish practice.
We could say the same with what we’ve done with Christmas, I’m sure. A man in my church made me laugh — he told how when he asked a woman to marry him she wouldn’t because he wasn’t a Christian. He said, “What do you mean? We have Christmas trees!”
Nothing against that — but you know what I mean!
4. How do you feel about The Chosen? Have you known any individuals who have been impacted by it for good? Have you known any who have been hurt by it? Explain either.
I believe that Dallas Jenkins, etal, are doing their best to bring the Word of God to the world. I don’t believe they are perfect, nor do I think they believe they are. I like how they bring pastors, priests, and rabbis to the table to discuss where they might have gone wrong in their delivery. They are honest and want to do the best job they can to help those watching to understand. I have benefitted from their venture, and I have recommended it to many, including a woman on the beach yesterday who hadn’t heard of it. I don’t know of anyone hurt by it.
5. What does John tell us in the very last verse of his gospel?
There are many stories that could be told but there would be too many to record.
6. Watch the above portrayal of The Woman at the Well. What stood out to you that was added? Do you think that was probable or far-fetched?
I’m guessing you want me to say it was far fetched, but I can see that it might have happened this way. I do think the part about her husbands (intimate details) was made up; the Bible doesn’t give us this info.
7. How do you think the Lord would have you speak to others about this series if you feel led to speak at all?
I just tell people that it is a good series that they would enjoy. I think I could add that it portrays the life of Jesus well.
4. How do you feel about The Chosen? Have you known any individuals who have been impacted by it for good? Have you known any who have been hurt by it? Explain either. In my personal opinion I think that they place too much emphasis on making sure that all of the women are viewed as strong, independent and play an essential role in most of the episodes. It is a distraction to me, I feel like they try too hard. Other than that, I enjoy watching them and think that seeing the bible being acted out in this way helps to capture the sights, sounds, and emotions of the people that we read about in the bible. They were real people with real lives, experiences and life stories, not just some character in a story that only exist for a brief moment in the narrative. I have only heard good things from people who have watched it and really can’t think of why anyone would be hurt by it.
5. What does John tell us in the very last verse of his gospel? Do you mean John 21:35? The earth would not have enough room for all of the books that could be written about the things that Jesus did. I take that to mean that everything thing that he did, every look, expression, comment was significant. It meant something to someone. There was a purpose for every second of his life.
6. Watch the above portrayal of The Woman at the Well. What stood out to you that was added? Do you think that was probable or far-fetched? The dialogue about why she was there at that time of day=probable. All of the dialogue about how women are viewed in their culture=unlikely since they would both already know this, but it helps to educate the viewer about what the times were like in that culture. When Jesus tells her if anyone accepts the living water that he is offering they will never thirst again in this clip she replies, “Prove it.” in the scripture she replies, “Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water.” Although she doesn’t understand exactly what he is telling her she is asking for it, not challenging it.
7. How do you think the Lord would have you speak to others about this series if you feel led to speak at all? I think he would tell me to recommend it. It may be a gateway to peaking a person’s interest in the bible and who knows what God is going to use to stir a person’s heart toward Him.
Interesting questions on Jewish practice.
We could say the same with what we’ve done with Christmas, I’m sure. A man in my church made me laugh — he told how when he asked a woman to marry him she wouldn’t because he wasn’t a Christian. He said, “What do you mean? We have Christmas trees!”
8. Keller summarizes this section like this “Jesus testifies to her, she testifies to her neighbors, and they to the world.” In your own life, how have you seen the rippling effects of evangelism for good?
I have watched our youth group grow to extraordinary numbers in the past few years. Kids from other churches and no church come and participate. It is a good thing. I have also observed at least one kid not participate because of the new “largeness” of the group. I hope this is due to schedules, but I fear it is because of the types of kids attending.
9. How did Keller say most New Yorkers view evangelism? Why? What does he intend to show them?
They view evangelism dimly. They believe others should be allowed to continue with their own beliefs, undisturbed. Keller intends to show that the passage is about evangelism is both reasonable and necessary. He also wants to give them ideas about how and why they should do it.
10. How, according to Keller, what did people of that time think was necessary to receive the blessing of God? Why would this woman not meet those requirements?
You had to be at the top of the ladder to receive the blessing. Of course, she was not at the top of the ladder. She had many husbands and was living with a man who was not her husband. She was an outcast.
11. In some ways, today, people still think salvation is a wage you earn instead of a gift you receive. Keller often speaks of needing to diffuse the idea that you are talking about morality when you speak to a secular person about Christianity. Have you experienced this? What might you say to diffuse this error?
I definitely have experienced this a couple of times. The two issues at hand were a teen wanting to change gender (talking to her mother), and a friend who says she could never live up to the requirements of Christianity because of all the things she has done in her life. In both situations I tried to explain that Jesus accepted all, not just the good people. It’s a hard idea to convey, and I was not successful in convincing either of them. I tried to sway them instead of asking questions and being kind (like Jesus). I think the best effort I gave was that Jesus hung out with the sinners. That’s why He died for us; to take our sin on Himself so we could be saved.
12. Why do you need humility to receive the gospel?
It is a free gift (not a wage that is earned), so having humility means you are willing to receive the gift and not be prideful and say something like, “I don’t need your charity…”
13. Keller spoke about the difference between religious proselytizing and “good newsing.” What did he mean?
Religious proselytizing is when you think of yourself at the top of the ladder looking down on others who are not like them in their beliefs and such. Gracious good news-ing is when you know you are a sinner saved by grace and you are explaining to others in this humble manner. It is a pleasant surprise, not a bitter one.
14. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
I guess I have never thought to equate this story with evangelism, but yes! How it does show this concept well. I go back to the scene in The Chosen…Jesus being so kind and accepting, and then when she runs away screaming and laughing. She is definitely going to tell everyone she knows about her experience.
Great answers — and great news about your youth group.
4. How do you feel about The Chosen? Have you known any individuals who have been impacted by it for good? Have you known any who have been hurt by it? Explain either. I have loved The Chosen, mostly because they have shown how approachable Jesus is to anyone and everyone, how He truly does know our hearts and character, individually. Transferring the stories of the Bible to film is not easy. I truly believe that Dallas Jenkins has tried to create this series, as an outreach ministry to draw others to Christ. I agree that we always need to be very discerning with any Bible story that is taken from Scripture (including the epic films of the past). I don’t know of anyone who has been hurt by it, yet I know many, including my family members, who see Jesus in a more personal way because of this series.
5. What does John tell us in the very last verse of his gospel? What John has written are only some of the things which Jesus did and they are not even written in detail. There is much more, but we have been given enough to know Him.
6. Watch the above portrayal of The Woman at the Well. What stood out to you that was added? Do you think that was probable or far-fetched? I think it is very probable that Jesus could have said similar things about knowing about her life and husbands. I think it demonstrates His character and that He is the Son of God, He knows our thoughts and hearts. He said enough to her that she left her water pot and hurried to tell others about Him.
7. How do you think the Lord would have you speak to others about this series if you feel led to speak at all? I agree with Sharon that it is important to encourage others to read the scriptures that are the basis for the stories in The Chosen. And it would be good to listen to the round table discussions. In some of the interviews of those who have been invited to preview these films, they have discussions about this with young people from all kinds of backgrounds. It is interesting to hear how they receive it. Also, if you purchase the CD’s, they include round table discussions with the Rabbi and a pastor (I believe) and often one of the actors, talking about how and what they include in each episode. These are helpful and I have encouraged others to listen to them.
Patti, I agree with you. I know of several people including some of my relatives in the Philippines who have watched The Chosen and have commented on Hi approachability. Jonathan R. has done a great job playing Jesus. I am very excited to “see” what Jesus looks like when I see him in Heaven,
Oh, Bing! I think of this so often! I cannot wait to see Jesus in heaven.
I knew as a theatre person you’d have insight and you did. I do think of all the liberties epic films took.
3. Read John 4:4-28
A. This is a familiar text, but the Spirit makes it ever new. Did anything, in particular, stand out to you in this reading? If so, what, and why?
I’ve always heard this story taught in that the woman came to the well at noon in the heat of the day to avoid the townspeople because of her “reputation”. She was perhaps shunned or gossiped about. So it struck me that after he encounter with Jesus, when He so forthrightly stated that fact about her having five husbands, and living with a man currently, that He didn’t shame her. She then felt uninhibited enough to go into the town and proclaim that a man had told her everything she ever did. She was no longer worried about hiding or avoiding others. She wasn’t ashamed and wanted to tell everyone about this man she had just encountered. When God confronts us with our sin, He doesn’t shame us; He can use us to build His kingdom no matter our past or present sins.
B. Jews avoided Samaria, but Jesus did not. What does this tell you about Him?
That He loves all people. The text says that Jesus had to go through Samaria. I suppose He could’ve gone around it, but He chose not to. I believe He already knew about the woman He would encounter there. There are no people groups outside of the love and care of God.
C. For what reasons was the woman surprised that Jesus is talking to her?
Because He was a Jew and she was a Samaritan, and Jews did not associate with Samaritans. Also, she was a woman, and men did not talk to women in public.
D. How can you see His motive in interacting with her in verse 10?
He wants to offer her something. He wants this woman to know who He is, and that He is the living water from which she can drink freely.
E. What does she think He means, and how is this similar to Nicodemus’ reaction to the statement that you must be “born again”?
She thinks He’s talking about literal water, because she observes He has nothing to draw water with. She wants to know where is this water? Nicodemus pondered how one could re-enter the womb to be born again.
F. What does He tell her about the water He is talking about in verses 13-14? Meditate on this and explain how you have experienced this “living water” in your Christian life. What insights do Tolkien’s words add to this?
Jesus explains that everyone who drinks water, as in the water from the well, will get thirsty again. But, Jesus said that if you drink the water that He gives, you will never be thirsty, because that water will become a spring of water welling up to eternal life. I think the “spring of water” is referring to the Holy Spirit who lives inside of us. I know that when I try to drink from other wells, like material things, food, relationships/people, i.e. try to find satisfaction, love, meaning, purpose, approval, comfort, or lasting happiness from anything or anyone other than God, it ultimately fails. Why are we always told to stay hydrated? Because if I drink a lot today, but nothing tomorrow, I will be dehydrated. The water comes from an external source. But Jesus’ living water, or His real presence inside of me is like a never-will-dry-up spring of water that constantly hydrates me – IF I will let it. I don’t think He ever takes this water away, but I can ignore it, not turn to it, trust in other sources, or not rely upon it. And oh, how often I don’t run to it first. Then I remember that He is there.
Tolkien’s words remind us that no matter how bad our circumstances get, and when they’re bad, we really do feel sorrowful, but inside, we can still hear the tiny gurgle of that stream of living water that can give us hope.
G. Some might think Jesus’ response to her asking for this water is a non-sequitur, but Keller says it is not. Can you see why not?
Because Jesus doesn’t really change the subject, or answer with an entirely different metaphor. He sticks with the water, and takes it to a deeper meaning.
H. In verses 19-26, what amazing things does Christ reveal to her?
Jesus tells her that a time is coming when there won’t be a designated place you have to worship God. Soon, worshippers will worship God in spirit and in truth, because God is spirit. When the woman says that she knows Messiah is coming and He will explain all things, Jesus plainly says that He is the Messiah. When Jesus says “I who speak to you ‘am he'” – It is “I AM”. Jesus is simply saying He is God.
I. What genuine evidence of faith do you see in her in verses 27-28?
She goes straight back to town and starts to tell everyone about Jesus. She asks, could this be the Messiah? She must’ve been very enthusiastic because the people from the town go out to meet Jesus.
So many great thoughts, Susan. I love your reference to staying hydrated! So true. (interesting that there are “drinks” on this earth that can de-hydrate us. Love the idea of hydrating my life with the living water of Jesus. This is so good: “The water comes from an external source. But Jesus’ living water, or His real presence inside of me is like a never-will-dry-up spring of water that constantly hydrates me – IF I will let it. I don’t think He ever takes this water away, but I can ignore it, not turn to it, trust in other sources, or not rely upon it. And oh, how often I don’t run to it first. Then I remember that He is there.”
So good about not confronting to shame but to free us!
4. How do you feel about The Chosen? Have you known any individuals who have been impacted by it for good? Have you known any who have been hurt by it?
I love it. I feel like it’s made the gospels come to life. I like to read the Bible, but we know almost nothing about the disciples – who they were before following Jesus (besides a mention if they were a tax collector or a fisherman, things like that). The Chosen gives them flesh and blood for me. I like, for example, the episode when Jesus informs them they’re going to pair up and go out to different towns and tell people about Him and do miracles. They are like what?? They’re incredulous, scared, skeptical….they were real people and this show brings them to life. I think Jonathan Roumie does a wonderful job portraying Jesus, and I imagine it’s a huge responsibility to portray Him. It also makes Jesus “three dimensional” for me, while Scripture is more one-dimensional. There aren’t enough pages of paper to record every little thing Jesus must’ve said, talked about, laughed about, instructed His disciples about. My husband, who would never read the Bible, a religious book, or attend church for years, also loves it. I kind of tricked him initially into watching it, saying that Jonathan Roumie is a friend of Fr. James Martin (true fact), and he knows how much I like Fr. Jim, so he agreed to watch it. After one episode, he wanted to watch more. Sometimes we have conversations about what we’ve watched. We’ve even re-watched each season, while waiting for Season 4.
Susan, wow! I am glad that you and your husband are watching The Chosen!
Me, too! He’s really a fan!
Fantastic news.
So happy to hear that your husband is watching!
Love that your husband is watching with you, Susan!
Tuesday: The Chosen
I have liked much of what The Chosen has done, though there have been episodes that I thought were far-fetched. But I have become cautious with my criticism for I am seeing people awakened from their slumber and who are seeing Jesus in a new and relevant way and I don’t want to smother that spark. When I spoke recently at a large funeral for a believer, I shared the gospel with many whom I suspected do not yet have a relationship with Jesus. Several came up to me and asked afterward if I had seen “The Chosen.” I realized it had awakened them and now they were hearing something similar from me. It does seem God is using it mightily. Having said that, any time we watch a biblical movie or read a biblical historical novel, we must be discerning, for they have added to what is written in Scripture. But because The Chosen is so very popular, I think it would be helpful to spend today discussing it, for our response may help or hurt others.
4. How do you feel about The Chosen? Have you known any individuals who have been impacted by it for good? Have you known any who have been hurt by it? Explain either.
I love The Chosen! I have a friend who is Catholic who shared with me how she loves The Chosen because of her seeing Jesus’ humanity. She has bought the DVDs and has watched the episodes. She talked about how some scenes touched her heart; I believe she s a true seeker. I don’t know of anybody personally who has been hurt by it.
5. What does John tell us in the very last verse of his gospel?
“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” John 21:25
6. Watch the above portrayal of The Woman at the Well. What stood out to you that was added? Do you think that was probable or far-fetched?
Jesus named two of the woman’s husbands and a few details (oranges?) of her first 2 marriages. Plausible
Jesus said that He came to the well specifically to meet her and He was counting on her to tell others about Him as the Christ. Plausible.
7. How do you think the Lord would have you speak to others about this series if you feel led to speak at all?
I would share with them that it is a very good series and that the writers have taken some creative artistic license and they would need to read the Scriptures as the final authority. And also to have an open mind for the plausibility of creativity based on John 21:25 If they are Christians, to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth to them.
Wednesday: The Free Gift of God
Listen to about the first 9 minutes of Keller’s message until he moves into “greatness.”
8. Keller summarizes this section like this “Jesus testifies to her, she testifies to her neighbors, and they to the world.” In your own life, how have you seen the rippling effects of evangelism for good?
I think of the college students that my husband and I invested in through the years. We have seen or heard many of them tell others about Jesus (like their children) and their children came to know Jesus as well.
I thought of the verse in 2 Timothy 2:2 “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
5. What does John tell us in the very last verse of his gospel?
That Jesus did many other things that were not written down, because if they had been, there would not be room in the entire world for all the books needed to record it all.
6. Watch the above portrayal of The Woman at the Well. What stood out to you that was added? Do you think that was probable or far-fetched?
When the woman sets off to tell everyone, Jesus has a twinkle/tear in His eyes, saying “I was counting on it.” I think that’s realistic, because His encounter with her was a divine appointment, and He may well have planned to reach the entire town through this woman.
7. How do you think the Lord would have you speak to others about this series if you feel led to speak at all?
I’ve told others about it already, and I just say you’ve got to see it for yourself! It will bring Jesus to life in a way you’ve never seen before. I don’t get caught up in criticizing the show. On the other hand, I don’t push it on those who aren’t interested.
Wednesday: The Free Gift of God
8. Keller summarizes this section like this “Jesus testifies to her, she testifies to her neighbors, and they to the world.” In your own life, how have you seen the rippling effects of evangelism for good?
My parents testified to me, I testified to my children and they to their friends and children.
9. How did Keller say most New Yorkers view evangelism?
They have a dim view of it. Why?
They don’t want others to push their beliefs on them.
What does he intend to show them?
That it is both reasonable and necessary.
10. How, according to Keller, what did people of that time think was necessary to receive the blessing of God?
They thought that being religious, moral, successful and accomplished put you higher on the ladder.
Why would this woman not meet those requirements?
She was not religious, moral, successful or accomplished.
11. In some ways, today, people still think salvation is a wage you earn instead of a gift you receive. Keller often speaks of needing to diffuse the idea that you are talking about morality when you speak to a secular person about Christianity. Have you experienced this?
Yes.
What might you say to diffuse this error?
I like this quote from Alistair Begg, The good news is not a message of “do your best, and be good enough!” But rather “your best is never enough – but Jesus is.”
12. Why do you need humility to receive the gospel?
Having pride could disqualify one from getting a gift. The gospel is free, a gift, not earned.
13. Keller spoke about the difference between religious proselytizing and “good newsing.” What did he mean?
What our motive is in sharing the gospel…is it because we think we’re better than the person we’re sharing it with (proselytizing) or are sharing it humbly and graciously as we are sinners saved by grace and want others to have Jesus too (good newsing).
14. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
I do want to share that as many times as I have read this story, this is a new nugget of truth that I’m seeing for the first time! “If you only knew the gift God has for you…” Fresh manna Dee!!
🙂
9. How did Keller say most New Yorkers view evangelism? Why? What does he intend to show them?
New Yorkers say, “Look, if it works for you, fine. If Christianity works for you, fine. But please do not hint or propose that other people should drop their beliefs and adopt yours.”
He intends to show that evangelism is reasonable and necessary.
g. But Jesus Christ reaches right through all those barriers, the gender barrier, the racial barrier, the morality barrier and he engages. Respectfully engages her in a thoroughgoing conversation about her whole life. And this is not something that she expected, you see, in verse nine, she was surprised. She expresses great surprise. She says, “You’re a Jew and a Jewish man, and I’m a Samaritan woman, and you’re talking to me?”
10. How, according to Keller, what did people of that time think was necessary to receive the blessing of God? Why would this woman not meet those requirements?
Society and religion are like a ladder. The more moral, religious, and successful you are, the closer you are to God. The Samaritan woman was a social and moral outcast and not a successful person so she won’t fit the requirements to receive blessings.
11. In some ways, today, people still think salvation is a wage you earn instead of a gift you receive. Keller often speaks of needing to diffuse the idea that you are talking about morality when you speak to a secular person about Christianity. Have you experienced this? What might you say to diffuse this error?
Yes, I have experienced this. I could say, “Thank God, it is not about morality or good works, or I will be in trouble. Rather it is a gift and not as a payment for good works” Hopefully, they would ask, “Why do you say that?” And I could reply that Christianity has to do with a person, the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christianity is about Jesus.
He offers Christian salvation as a gift not a wage that you earned. Not merited, have to have humility to receive it.
12. Why do you need humility to receive the gospel?
I need to acknowledge that I cannot do it on my own; this would take humility.
13. Keller spoke about the difference between religious proselytizing and “good newsing.” What did he mean?
Religious proselytizing is religious people who think they are on the top of the ladder; it is a bitter experience.
The good newsing is an acknowledgment of I am a sinner saved by grace. And is a pleasant surprise.
14. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
That this passage is about evangelism. I have seen this passage as more of Jesus breaking barriers and even about forgiveness of all sins.
8. Keller summarizes this section like this: “Jesus testifies to her, she testifies to her neighbors, and they to the world.” In your own life, how have you seen the rippling effects of evangelism for good?
Keller said that this passage is about evangelism. He defined evangelism as Christians talking about their faith to others and inviting them to embrace the faith for themselves. In my own life – I am unsure. When I became a Christian, some thought I’d “gone off the deep end”. It was a constant source of battle, it seemed, between me and my husband. I took my kids to church, read Scripture to them….yet I believe only one right now is trying to find her way with her own faith in God. I often fear that I really didn’t do the best job of passing the faith on to my own kids. I didn’t have any example to draw on, from my own parents, as we didn’t go to church when I was growing up.
9. How did Keller say most New Yorkers view evangelism? Why? What does he intend to show them?
Most New Yorkers take a “dim view” on evangelism. It’s an attitude of “if it works for you that’s fine, but don’t expect others to drop their views and adopt yours.” Many see evangelism as being narrow-minded or intolerant. Keller wanted to demonstrate that evangelism, for Christians, is both reasonable and necessary.
10. How, according to Keller, what did people of that time think was necessary to receive the blessing of God? Why would this woman not meet those requirements?
This Samaritan woman was a “moral outsider”, as evidenced by her coming alone to draw water. People of that time saw society and religion as a ladder, and those who were religious, moral, and successful were higher up and therefore, closer to God, and God blessed those at the top of the ladder because they were closer to God. This woman would have been viewed as being at the bottom of the ladder, and those at the top didn’t associate with those like her, except in a condescending way. Not only was she a social and moral outcast, but she was also a woman in a patriarchal society, and she was a Samaritan, and the Jews hated her people.
11. In some ways, today, people still think salvation is a wage you earn instead of a gift you receive. Keller often speaks of needing to diffuse the idea that you are talking about morality when you speak to a secular person about Christianity. Have you experienced this? What might you say to diffuse this error?
Salvation is a gift you receive, not a wage that you earn. Keller said, “What can disqualify you from getting a wage? Not doing the work. What can disqualify you from getting a gift? Only pride.” If I were to try to explain the difference, I might share that I myself can’t even go 24 hours without thinking, saying, or doing something wrong. We can’t earn God’s love and forgiveness; it is impossible. It is a free gift, and we need to see our empty hands and hold them out to receive the gift.
12. Why do you need humility to receive the gospel?
It takes humility to admit that you are bankrupt, that you have nothing to offer to God, that you possess no goodness of your own. That no matter how good and put-together you look on the outside, you know yourself, your real self, and if you’re honest, you’re a mess.
13. Keller spoke about the difference between religious proselytizing and “good newsing”. What did he mean?
A religious proselytizer is one who thinks of himself as being at the top of the ladder, and they’re talking down to those who don’t have the same doctrines, beliefs, and practices. He said that when you are the object of proselytizing, it is a “bitter experience”. However, when you are the object of gracious “good newsing”, you are pleasantly surprised. I am thinking that the difference is about shame? As I noticed in how Jesus told this woman that He knew all about her, yet He did not shame nor humiliate her. He simply stated the facts of her life. It didn’t crush her. Sure, she might’ve felt embarrassed and tried to change the subject, but if she had felt humiliated, she might’ve left the spot right at that point. But she continued to engage with Him. What a balance – to name the sin but without judgment. Perhaps a proselytizer’s point is to make you feel really bad about your sin and failure and that you need to get your act together and clean yourself up.
14. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
I never really thought about the fact that in this passage, Jesus is demonstrating for us how to evangelize. He sees her, really sees her. He seems unaware of any barriers between them, because He does not judge her for who she is, for being a woman, for being a Samaritan. He sees everyone as the same. He sees her sin and her way of life and offers her something so much better. In essence, He offers Himself to her – another beautiful thing, because He is saying that there is no one who isn’t worthy to receive Him based on their gender or race or their sin.
15. How does Keller explain why Jesus asks the woman to go get her husband? What is He trying to show her?
He is trying to get her to see that His living water will save her, not some man who cannot. She will not find joy and peace by going from man to man.
16. How have you and do you try to quench your God-thirst with other things? What is the result?
Oh yes, gulp, unfortunately. The result is never satisfying and many times, painful, to say the least.
17. What point was he making by quoting Albert Camus?
Camus says that the wild man and the working man are just the same man; always longing for something else. We long for eternal life but will never find it in the secular world of living the high life.
18. How is this Living Water greater than anything under the sun? Share what it means to you.
We long for eternal life even though we may not recognize it. It is what makes us whole, complete, joyous, and at peace. I go back to being so human though. It is hard to reject things “under the Sun” because they are always in our faces. We have been on vacation and I have not used my phone very much. Mind you the phone is about appointments and things that bind me (including bible study ;)). I actually had a thought this morning that I wouldn’t ever look at my email again and would be better off! Oh the rest and relaxation! How sweet it is. I’ve also been thinking about how people live their lives in general. We have to have the perfect body, the latest house design, or a new car. None of it matters, at all, in the end. It will all be gone in a flash when we die. If we have eternity, we are forever at peace. I could live a bit that way, on Earth, if I remember that point. Nothing can take the place of Him and make me whole, at peace.
19. When someone says, “I’m glad this works for you,” what is he failing to understand? What illustration did he give?
Keller says that the Gospel doesn’t “work” for us. We cannot hold it. It works on and holds us! It “…transforms and sweeps us up.” If someone says that it doesn’t “work” for them, then they don’t understand Christianity. He uses the illustration of someone who finds a cure for MS. Wouldn’t you want everyone to know if you though you found the cure? Wouldn’t that be loving and reasonable? They might be right or wrong. Same with Christianity. It is loving and reasonable to share the Gospel.
20. Keller says the approach with the “insider” (Nicodemus) and the “outsider” (the Samaritan woman) couldn’t have been more different. How did Jesus approach them differently? What might we learn from this evangelistically?
He confronts Nicodemus straight on. He has pride. He has a lot to overcome. With the woman he is gentle, though direct. She is broken. Evangelism is personal and the way we approach it is different each time. We need to be loving and transparent about how Jesus has helped you. We must be involved in relationships to do this.
21. What else stands out to you from this section and why?
My best friends’ husband is dying of MS as we speak. It has been hard to not be able to be with her (she lives across the country), knowing what she is going through. I have felt so helpless. He is only 66 and it is sad. She has spent the last few years literally liting him to and from the bed to his wheelchair and back, rolling him over at night every two hours, and dressing wounds (she is not a nurse). All this and working full time. Unfortunately his family is quite small and hers is not available. It has really been hard on her. He is on hospice now. It is a terrible disease. Keller made me think of this as he spoke. This part of the sermon really hit home with me. It would be unloving and unreasonable to not alert others of a cure (is this the case with cancer?) and to not alert others of what being a Christian affords them too.
Oh your friend sounds wonderful. So hard, yet really, so beautiful.
Laura, I like the point you make that we long for eternal life though we might not recognize that longing. I suppose we look to those ‘earthly things’ to fill that longing, as yes, we are human. But how true – none of these material things will last! That is so very sad about your friend’s husband who is dying of MS. It is a horrible disease. I’m sure he has suffered greatly for a long time.
Laura, what a good friend you are to carry your friend’s burden from a distance. I, too had a friend who had MS. She passed away at the age of 54. Praying for your friend right now and the sustaining power of Christ to carry her through her husband’s care. I am glad he has hospice care. The team can be the most precious gift to terminally ill patients and their caregivers.
My heart aches for what your friend is enduring, watching her precious husband go through this. It has truly been a labor of love for her to care for him. So thankful for Hospice too.
Thursday: Greatness & Process
Continue listening up to about minute 25 when he says “in the end He gets to Himself.”
15. How does Keller explain why Jesus asks the woman to go get her husband? What is He trying to show her?
What she needs is Living Water that He only can give. The woman is trying to quench her thirst through men in her life.
16. How have you and do you try to quench your God-thirst with other things? What is the result?
Yes, I have tried to quench my thirst with other things. Friendships, my job, motherhood, any roles I have-teacher, nurse, pastor’s wife. If these were taken away, what would be my outcome? Death just as no physical water can cause physical death.
There was no satisfaction at all-just more thirst! I am reminded of Jeremiah 2:13 “My people have done two evil things. They turned away from me, and they dug their own water cisterns. I am the source of living water; those cisterns are broken and cannot hold water.”
17. What point was he making by quoting Albert Camus?
All of us have different ways of seeking eternal life-sex, success, etc. The nights can keep us up in bliss running the treadmill and pleasures of life, but in the morning, we are left with a bitter aftertaste. We are awake but we are also still here on earth and have to repeat the same never-ending grind. The irony of it is we do not have to live that kind of life-I can live with hope for eternal life while here on earth and stay content.
18. How is this Living Water greater than anything under the sun? Share what it means to you.
There is nothing, no one that can satisfy my thirst under the sun. I can find the tastiest of water on this earth made by man, but it will NEVER satisfy my physical thirst. Even the author of Ecclesiastes talks about the meaninglessness of anything here on earth.
I need to always look to Jesus as my only source of satisfaction and contentment.
A very good friend of mine took me on a surprise date. She did not say where we were going but was hoping it would be a good experience for me. After a leisurely lunch at a Chinese restaurant, we drove another 15 miles to a little town of about 877 residents. We were nearing the railroad track and I had a feeling that the surprise would take my breath away. Well, it was far beyond my imagination. Tucked in a hideaway is a beautiful cancer memorial garden!!! I gasped as we rounded the corner!
This garden was started 6 years ago by a man from Kentucky who was hunting in the area- He had a vision for a place where families of cancer patients can come and just sit awhile. I was like a little child going from one bed of plants to another. Flowers and special greeneries that I was not familiar with were all over the place!!! Statues of children enhanced the beds. We meandered for about an hour and afterward sat at one of their shelters.
We commented about how heaven must be very similar but without the decay that we saw (the garden was very well kept lush and just colorful!). Though I left that place with a lot of satisfaction and joy sharing it with my dear friend, I knew Jesus’ presence would have turned that place into an ever-glorious experience! My thirst for beauty was captivated but it left an aching void that there is more to it in Christ though I felt His presence with us in the garden. And when we are in Christ, the Living water, we can experience a welling of joy inside of us when He shows us a display of His earthly grandeur.
19. When someone says, “I’m glad this works for you,” what is he failing to understand? What illustration did he give?
What Jesus offers will work for anybody.
20. Keller says the approach with the “insider” (Nicodemus) and the “outsider” (the Samaritan woman) couldn’t have been more different. How did Jesus approach them differently? What might we learn from this evangelistically?
Jesus addressed Nicodemus right away, directly; He addressed the woman more indirectly patiently. Different ways but with the same goal to reveal Himself as their Savior. To look to Him alone rather than to their perceived worthiness pride and status, top of the ladder (Nicodemus) nor to unworthiness as an outcast (Samaritan woman)
21. What else stands out to you from this section and why?
How this section recalls the story of the prodigal son. Nicodemus represents the older brother; the Samaritan woman represents the younger brother. How God, the Father treated them differently according to their deepest needs.
Loved this from Bing:
How this section recalls the story of the prodigal son. Nicodemus represents the older brother; the Samaritan woman represents the younger brother. How God, the Father treated them differently according to their deepest needs.
I’m going on vacation tomorrow and will be mostly without internet for a week.
Have a safe and fun vacation time, Dawn!
Have a safe and joyful vacation, Dawn.
15. How does Keller explain why Jesus asks the woman to go get her husband? What is He trying to show her?
When the woman is interested in this offer of living water, Jesus seems to give a non-sequitur by telling her to go get her husband. Jesus is not, however, changing the subject. She is asking where is this living water, and Jesus says okay, let’s talk about your sex life. Jesus is saying that this living water is what she has been trying to find in men, but she hasn’t yet found it. He is helping her to understand where she has been trying to find the water.
16. How have you and do you try to quench your God-thirst with other things? What is the result?
I know that I have inner longings to be loved, to be known, to be significant, to matter, to belong, to have meaning and purpose for my existence. I can think back distinctly to my high school and college years, when I believed that what made me significant and worthy was the way I looked. From fashion magazines to the attention of men who thought I was beautiful and the emphasis my own mom placed on outward appearance, that was what I thought made me significant and gave meaning. I see now how shallow that all was. I have tried to quench my God-thirst with daydreaming and fantasizing, with material things, with sweets, with dependence upon others, like my children, to give me affirmation, love, security, a reason for existing. What I find is the result is that these things and even flesh and blood people cannot ever truly fill the longings that I have. They may work for a short time, but the empty feelings will return.
17. What point was he making by quoting Albert Camus?
In one of Camus’ novels, the main character describes going to bed with harlots and drinking to excess because he “longed for eternal life”. While getting temporary bliss, he awoke with a bitter taste of his mortal state. Keller said that in Manhattan, you see the same kind of thing: some who are living a wild life and some who are staying up all night working to climb the ladder. What are they after? They are really longing for eternal life. There is a thirst underneath all that they are doing that remains unsatisfied.
18. How is this Living Water greater than anything under the sun? Share what it means to you.
When Jesus spoke about this Living Water, He used it as a metaphor to mean His salvation, and Keller said what He meant was that His salvation is as necessary to you spiritually as water is to you physically. We are made of water and therefore we crave it and we need it to live. In the same way, Keller said that our soul craves for something, and Jesus is the only One who has it. “If you don’t get what I have, you’re dead.” Jesus even says that He will go on to “put a spring (of water) in you.” Keller likened that spring of water as like a river – an “abiding joy” that remains despite the sadness that may be on the surface. After listening to Keller, I think I have an even greater understanding of what this spring of living water is, what it does, what it is for, and that Jesus is the only One who can give it. There is no human person, no matter how dearly they love me, who can promise me this. There is no material possession that can give this, no trivial pursuit in life which may divert and distract me for a time that can give me this. So how could anything be greater than this? It also makes me think of the verse which says that God has blessed us in the spiritual realm with every spiritual blessing. If we have every spiritual blessing, what has God left out? Nothing.
19. When someone says, “I’m glad this works for you”, what is he failing to understand? What illustration did he give?
To say that something “works” for me is saying that something I can hold and move or use as an instrument to utilize for my purposes works for me. But the gospel doesn’t “work” for us. The gospel isn’t something you can hold – it is what holds us. It transforms us. Keller gave the example of what if a group of people found the cure for multiple sclerosis, and then they went public about it. You’d be excited about that – you wouldn’t think how narrow-minded they are! When Christians experience the Living Water and want to share it with others because they know this is what everyone is longing for, it’s not being narrow-minded. It is both unloving and unreasonable to not share what you know to be the cure, whether for a disease or spiritually.
Susan, Your answer to question 16. is one I can really identify with. You could have been talking about me and you articulated it so very well. And your analysis is correct.
“What I find is the result is that these things and even flesh and blood people cannot ever truly fill the longings that I have. They may work for a short time, but the empty feelings will return.”
And for me I continued to be desperately insecure until God convinced me of his perfect Fatherhood and unconditional love through Jesus Christ. Now I just gotta praise Him. 💕😊
I agree with you Bev — here is the response from Susan we both think is worth reading:
I know that I have inner longings to be loved, to be known, to be significant, to matter, to belong, to have meaning and purpose for my existence. I can think back distinctly to my high school and college years, when I believed that what made me significant and worthy was the way I looked. From fashion magazines to the attention of men who thought I was beautiful and the emphasis my own mom placed on outward appearance, that was what I thought made me significant and gave meaning. I see now how shallow that all was. I have tried to quench my God-thirst with daydreaming and fantasizing, with material things, with sweets, with dependence upon others, like my children, to give me affirmation, love, security, a reason for existing. What I find is the result is that these things and even flesh and blood people cannot ever truly fill the longings that I have. They may work for a short time, but the empty feelings will return.
Susan, I so agree with Bev and Dee about your answer to 16. I think this statement defines so many of the ways we all try to fill the desires of our hearts. The only thing that can satisfy the deep longing and thirst, is Jesus. You have a great gift for putting your thoughts into words.
28. What is your take-a-way and why?
—We attended an annual church conference in western Nebraska this week. It was an incredibly wonderful time of refreshing and sweet sweet fellowship. The host church was so very welcoming and the preaching and teaching very encouraging to our hearts and minds. It was very Jesus focused and Living Water to our souls.
—I just want to weigh in on my thoughts on The Chosen series.
I started watching the Chosen as a skeptic but was curious enough to give it a chance. My husband and I have watched through all the current episodes now. I have come to appreciate it as a well done series that engages you so that you get a good feel for the culture in Jesus’s time on earth and I see it as a good demonstration of Him encountering the people of his time. I feel it also does a good job of showing the humanity of Jesus.
We need to be reminded that Jesus was fully human and fully flesh during his time here on earth.
I believe Jesus was winsome to the searching hearts of those who encountered him and Jonathan Roumie plays that well. A few times I’ve wondered at where the storyline goes but as yet I don’t feel they have compromised any biblical accounts or teachings. I feel Dallas Jenkins and his people have tried hard to flesh out scenarios that are believable and in keeping with the scriptural texts.
—I have seen that most of those who have watched it have responded positively and feel like it brings the scripture alive for them in a way that makes it more relatable. Those who I know that are negative tend to have a prejudice either against the stories and how they have been developed or against Dallas Jenkins. A number of criticisms are based in perceived “wrong” associations Jenkins has had involved with the production and that some actors are not actual believers. I think those are unrealistic ideas of how it should be done and something of this magnitude is produced.
I don’t follow all the extra stuff surrounding the episodes but I have taken time to listen to a couple of Dallas Jenkins’s explanations as sort of a defense of what they have done and why. In those he has come across to me as credible. It would seem some sound bites have been taken out of context and used against him. I think his heart is still all about the gospel of Christ.
—The portrayal of the Woman at the Well seemed very probable to me. Even the added comments naming a couple of her husbands and the scenarios concerning them with some details that are added would make sense. In John 4:39 she says, “He told me all that I ever did.”
Amen to this entire post, Bev. I think this series has drawn many unbelievers and doubters to Christ. For believers, it is a nice way to introduce others to Jesus. I love this: In John 4:39 she says, “He told me all that I ever did.” Truth
Bev, love your thoughts on The Chosen, and thank you for your kind reply to my post above. I agree with you that only God can cure my desperate insecurities, which I must have if I run to other people and things.
Thoughtful response to The Chosen from Bev.
Friday: Singleness
Listen to the end.
22. Keller says, “In the end, Jesus always gets to Himself.” How do you see Him doing that with the woman at the well?
He doesn’t get back to the water. He doesn’t get back to some experience. He doesn’t get back to some kind of approach to life, he gets back to Himself, me. There is living water because it comes through me.
I always remember the illustration Keller gave about going on a date with Jesus. After you have talked about yourself for a bit, Jesus would say, “Enough about you, we need to talk about Me.” So true. I realize as a speaker I have failed if they do not know who Jesus claimed to be and what He offers them. This is what our goal must be with those God puts in our path.
23. Keller says we must be courageously transparent about what Jesus means to us. How have you done this recently?
Yes, and surprisingly, I am finding out that even among church attendees there is a hesitation to talk about Jesus and what He means to them. As we have mentioned here before, some professing Christians think that their faith is something private and only shared with a few.
24. He also says we must always bring it back, not to experience but to Jesus. What does he mean?
The experience is only a means to point others to the person of Jesus Christ. Experiences ebb and flow but Jesus is the constant.
25. Every other religion says to look to the rules — what does Jesus say?
Look to a relationship with me. Come as you are.
26. In the close of this sermon, how does Keller bring it back to Jesus?
He talked about the temple and worship. No need anymore for a temple, or sacrifices to show our worship because on the Cross, Christ did everything for us and worship can happen anytime as long as it is in the Spirit and in truth.
On the cross, He suffered the ultimate thirst so, so we who believe in Him will have the Living Water and will never thirst again.
27. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
We can be looking for something or someone but whatever it is we are looking for, they all can be found in Jesus Christ only. He is ours for the taking without any strings attached.
Saturday:
28. What is your takeaway and why?
Evangelism is simply loving people around you and being involved in relationships and at the same time being courageously, transparent about what Jesus means to you.
His prayer: And we pray that you would help us be true lovers of our friends and our neighbors. Help us no matter what, no matter what the situation, no matter how slowly or how quickly people respond or how positively or how negatively, teach us how to say, come and see a man who saw me at my worst and loved me. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
On a side note: Every time I listen to Tim Keller, it is as if he is still with us here. I often find myself thinking, Oh, Lord, I forgot (again!) that Tim is no longer here on earth with us. Thank you for this godly man. And thank you, Dee, for this wonderful series.
Thanks for your encouragement, Bing. Happened to need it right now.
Dee, Amen to Bing. Thank you so much for this series. I have been silent most of the last two weeks, but I have needed this study and these sermons so much at this time. I know so many are traveling and it is hard to keep up, but I pray that you will continue this beautiful ministry. Love you so dear Dee.
So many beautiful nuggets of truth in all your answers, Bing. I so love your thoughts on all of this.
15. How does Keller explain why Jesus asks the woman to go get her husband? What is He trying to show her? He s trying to show her what she s been trying to find in men and point out it wasn’t enough.There is good news and bad news but Jesus got to what He offers – living water and hope.
16. How have you and do you try to quench your God-thirst with other things? What is the result? Sugar. Little projects around the house, (room painting and rearranging) diet and exercise. It only a temporary satisfaction that can lead to self disgust and other physical problems and poor paint choices.
17. What point was he making by quoting Albert Camus? That the character was living a wild life always searching but never being satisfied because he was looking for eternal life only found in what Jesus Christ offers us.
18. How is this Living Water greater than anything under the sun? Share what it means to you. If I let it flow it’s always there bubbling up inside of me. Helping me work through disappointments, failure, anger, fatigue and when I sit and wait and reflect on Jesus and push through my fleshly responses there is peace and joy.
19. When someone says, “I’m glad this works for you,” what is he failing to understand? What illustration did he give? They don’t understand Christianity and that the Gospel works for everyone sweeping them up and transforming them. A group of people convinced they have cure to MS but they write a book about it. The public response would not be how narrow minded because if true it would be wonderful. To not share the cure would be unloving and unreasonable . Jesus offers the cure for me not to share it is unloving. 20. Keller says the approach with the “insider” (Nicodemus) and the “outsider” (the Samaritan woman) couldn’t have been more different. How did Jesus approach them differently? What might we learn from this evangelistically? Approach to Nicodemus is direct and more confrontational. Nicodemus approach to salvation involved works and his pride stood in the way. Jesus tells him must be born again so Nicodemus can cast off the old ways. Approach to woman is more intriguing and not direct. It’s a hot day she s by herself getting water and Jesus offers living water. Each individual has different circumstances and no one approach will work for everyone.
21. What else stands out to you and why? There s a lot of people who are laughing but underneath there is an abiding sadness. For years as far back as I can remember I carried sadness. It started so young that I thought everyone felt that way. Every now and then I d meet someone and think I don’t think they have the sadness. Even after getting involved in church I still didn’t realize sadness wasn’t just the way it is for people. Slowly Jesus pulled away those layers and healed what needed to be healed. Now I’m surprised if I go an entire day with the blues. I am blessed. Today I was driving home from dropping off the grands and realized I was smiling and not even for a particular reason. God is just that good.
20. Keller says the approach with the “insider” (Nicodemus) and the “outsider” (the Samaritan woman) couldn’t have been more different. How did Jesus approach them differently? What might we learn from this evangelistically?
Jesus confronts Nicodemus almost immediately with “you must be born again”, while with the woman, He is more indirect and takes more time. His metaphor of living water which He uses with the woman is much more attractive and intriguing, while with Nicodemus He is more confrontational, in that being born again means for Nicodemus that he must start all over; nothing he’s accomplished counts for anything. Nicodemus’ problem is his pride, while the woman’s problem is that she feels like a moral failure. Keller said that evangelism is “absolutely personal and relational”. We must look at each individual’s temperament, personality and background. We can’t use a cookie-cutter approach to telling others about Jesus.
21. What else stands out to you from this section and why?
I like how Keller said that evangelism is simply loving people around you and being involved in relationships, while being courageously transparent about what Jesus means to you.
That sounds so simple! For me it can be hard though, if I am honest – I often need to overcome being judgmental of others (if only in my thoughts) and have much work to do in loving others unconditionally.
22. Keller says, “In the end, Jesus always gets to Himself.” How do you see Him doing that with the woman at the well?
He admits to her that He is the Messiah.
23. Keller says we must be courageously transparent about what Jesus means to us. How have you done this recently?
I used to flinch and squirm when I admitted I was a Christian to others. Now, I speak of it and Him!
24. He also says we must always bring it back, not to experience but to Jesus. What does he mean?
He says there is living water, but it comes through Me. There is salvation, through Me. The woman runs off to tell her friends and neighbors about a man, who told me everything about myself! She never mentions the water.
25. Every other religion says to look to the rules — what does Jesus say?
All other religions say to come to the founder and he will help you find God. Jesus comes, as God, to find us. He is The Way.
26. In the close of this sermon, how does Keller bring it back to Jesus?
He explains that when Jesus was on the cross, He went through a spiritual hell. He was dying of thirst, burning up. Why? So He could say to us and everyone, no matter what you have done, who you are, where you come from, you may have the living water. Freely.
27. What else stood out to you from this section and why?
Keller’s prayer at the end is beautiful. “… Help us no matter what, no matter what the situation, no matter how slowly or how quickly people respond or how positively or how negatively, teach us how to say, come and see a man who saw me at my worst and loved me…”
Laura, I love your answers, but especially this one. I never thought of it that way – she never once spoke of that water, but of Christ! That’s it! That’s the difference we see today with the prosperity gospel being preached in many churches and talked about by many who claim the name of Christ. I’ve often thought that they love the gifts, and not the Giver! So sad.
“He says there is living water, but it comes through Me. There is salvation, through Me. The woman runs off to tell her friends and neighbors about a man, who told me everything about myself! She never mentions the water.”
From Laura:
Keller’s prayer at the end is beautiful. “… Help us no matter what, no matter what the situation, no matter how slowly or how quickly people respond or how positively or how negatively, teach us how to say, come and see a man who saw me at my worst and loved me…
Your answers are all so perceptive, Laura. I agree with Missy. And the woman at the well left with the Living Water~ with the Christ~ the earthly water pot was left at the well.
Yes! She left the water pot! Water was so precious to them (and to us)….she was unconcerned, right? He tells us to be that way.
Saturday—I just want to add my appreciation for the transcripts of the sermons by Keller. They have been so helpful to me as well.
This weeks sermon is so very good and deeply encouraging. I loved the way he framed the response of the woman at the well. He says she was pleasantly surprised and that she was amazed. “…when you are, like the woman, the object of gracious good news-ing it’s a pleasant surprise.” One elements of the portrayal of her on the Chosen she seemed a little too cynical but I prefer the perspective Keller gives that she was surprised and amazed in a good way. It would seem to me she was disarmed by the love and acceptance of Jesus right away.
I also really like the way Keller ends the sermon when he says “What a strange way to testify. No, what she’s saying is he saw me at my worst and he still offered me the living water. I’ve never met a man like this. Here’s a man who doesn’t care about race or gender or morality or any of the world’s values. He loves me. He cares about me. He offered this to me. He’s seen me to the bottom, at my worst, yet he’s loved me to the skies. She was a very effective witness. And you know, she knew that somehow the water was coming through Jesus, but she had no idea really what he was going to do. But you do. You and I know far more than she. What’s our excuse? Go and tell.”
This offers so much encouragement to me and challenges me as well. What is my excuse? Go and tell!
Saturday:
28. What is your take-a-way and why?
This was a challenging sermon from Keller for me. Evangelism has always intimidated me…not knowing what to say, fear of rejection or saying, “it’s not my gift🤦🏻♀️! But Keller stresses how reasonable and necessary it is and gives good ideas of why and how.
The comparisons Keller makes between how he evangelized Nicodemus and the woman at the well showed me how personalized it needs to be with each person. Being raised in a Christian home I heard many sermons on evangelism…most that I remember gave you a certain formula you should follow, do this, don’t do that, etc! There was nothing personal about it which now shows me why it intimidated me…I had made it religious proselytizing rather than good newsing!! My motive was about “me” and how well “I” did rather than pointing them to Jesus. As Keller says, Jesus is “the way,” not “a way.”
”I’ve got to stop making excuses and just go and do it.”
Thank you much Dee for doing these sermons…I have been humbled by how much I have got to learn.
Amen! Amen! Amen! to all you wrote Sharon.
22. Keller says, “In the end, Jesus always gets to Himself.” How do you see Him doing that with the woman at the well? She brings up the Messiah and He tells her He is the Messiah.
I always remember the illustration Keller gave about going on a date with Jesus. After you have talked about yourself for a bit, Jesus would say, “Enough about you, we need to talk about Me.” So true. I realize as a speaker I have failed if they do not know who Jesus claimed to be and what He offers them. This is what our goal must be with those God puts in our path.
23. Keller says we must be courageously transparent about what Jesus means to us. How have you done this recently? Unfortunately I cannot say that I have recently. I do talk to my grandkids and try to work it into conversation with my husband.
24. He also says we must always bring it back, not to experience but to Jesus. What does he mean? Because Jesus is the answer and there is no other way. He is the way the truth and the life
25. Every other religion says to look to the rules — what does Jesus say? Look at me, there is no other name under heaven by which your thirst can be satisfied and you may be saved.
26. In the close of this sermon, how does Keller bring it back to Jesus? The woman at the well didn’t run to town and tell them about the living water she told them come and see a man who could be the Messiah
27. What else stood out to you from this section and why? Jesus was not just physically thirsty but spiritually thirsty from separation from God and Jesus experienced that so we can have the Living water. I need to be more aware and committed to bring up Jesus in conversation.
S