Go Ye Therefore
The Law of Connection Part 14
Jesus Changes a City-John 4:1-26
We don’t even know her name. Other Jews wouldn’t even speak with her. Yet because Jesus was different, He spoke with this Samaritan woman—a snubbed gender within a despised race. Through this personal connection, God reached an entire city. We learn at least seven principles from Jesus’ leadership in John 4:
- Leaders initiate the contact (vv. 1-7).
Jesus spoke first. He didn’t isolate Himself even from “undesirables.”
- Leaders establish common ground (vv. 7, 8).
He connected with her about a familiar interest: water.
- Leaders listen and allow others to speak (v. 9).
He knew people like to hear their own voices most of all.
- Leaders arouse interest (vv. 10-15).
Jesus built a verbal bridge by making her thirsty for something more than water.
- Leaders take others only so far as they are ready to go (vv. 16-19).
Jesus knew He mustn’t go too far. He said enough to make her hungry for more.
- Leaders accept others where they are (vv. 17, 18).
Jesus knew her lifestyle, but never condemned her for it.
- Leaders stick with the key issues (vv. 20-24).
He didn’t allow her to get distracted. He wouldn’t divert the focus from the real issue.
- Leaders communicate issues directly and simply (vv. 25, 26).
Jesus revealed His identity in clear and simple terms.
Join me next time for The Law of Connection Part 15