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Discussion Questions John 4:1-42: Samaritans, Jews, and Jesus

In order to fully appreciate this portion of Scripture, it is important to look into the history of the Samaritans. Why such hostility? Even to the point that Jesus being called a Samaritan was a most derogatory statement; meant to sting on many levels. The Scriptures noted and questions posed will cover the basics. I found myself engaged to the point that it was difficult to know where to begin and end. Therefore, I strongly encourage you to dig a little deeper, and read more of the historical background offered by extra-biblical historians. If you have a deeper knowledge on this subject, please do not hesitate to share in the comments section below.

If you haven't read the summary, please do so

here.

READ John 4:1-42

"Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?" For the Jews have no dealings with Samaritans." John 4:9

"...Our fathers worshipped on this mountain [Mt. Gerzim], and You say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship.." John 4:20

"And at this point, His disciples came, and they marveled that He talked with a woman.." John 4:27

THE SAMARITANS AND THE JEWS

Read the following passages of Scripture, and then answer the following questions.

2 Kings chapter 17; Ezra Chapter 4; 2 Kings Chapter 21 (Manessah is the king who built the temple on Mt.Gerzim) John 4:19-20; John 8:1-48; Luke 9:51-54.

1) What do you think the root cause for this hostility?

2) How does this bit of history deepen the meaning of the woman's statement?

3) Why do you think Jesus was referred to as a Samaritan?

4) How do these passages give you understanding of the disciples' response?

5) Did Jesus' actions toward the woman give the disciples a change of heart toward the Samaritans? (Luke 9:51-54

6) Why do you think the Samaritans hated the Jews?

7) How do the actions of the woman encourage you to share your faith despite your "before Christ" days?

JESUS - LIVING WATER

"Jesus answered and said to her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, 'Give Me a drink,' you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water." John 9:10

Blessed is the man whose delight is in the law of the Lord, for he shall be like a tree planted by rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in season...(Psalm 1:1-3)

Read the following passages of Scripture, and then answer the following questions.

Isaiah 12:1-5; Isaiah 44:3-4; Jeremiah 2:11-13; Psalm 36-7-9; Psalm 51:2; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:5; Revelation 21:6; Revelation 22:1,17

1) What was the water Jesus offered her? Make a list of all that this kind of water will do for her - or anyone who asks?

2) Who is it that gives this water and by what authority?

3) Whom did Jesus say he was/is?

4) Make a list of the characteristics you see displayed in Jesus' words and actions toward this woman.

5) What statement did this make to His disciples?

PERSONAL CHALLENGE - THE GOOD SAMARITAN



1) What are you doing that would fit the description of serving the Lord, but also serving other gods?

2) Are you displaying the same attitude of the disciples toward the "Samaritans" of today?

3) What kind of changes are you willing to make to be more like Christ because of this study?

REREAD JOHN 4:1-42

1) What questions were answered for you and how would you explain these truths if someone were to ask you these same questions?

2) What, if any, new questions or discussions arose for you that are not discussed in this lesson? How do you intend to find the answers?

Read Luke Chapter 10:25-37

Knowing the history of rivalry and hostility between the Jews and the Samaritans, how do you think this story played into the growing hatred toward Jesus by some of the Jews? What additional insights can you gain about the Character of Jesus? What is the point He continues to make? Summarize your thoughts:

(C) Teresa Ortiz - Book of John Study - Discussion Questions 2011 - All Rights Reserved.

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