Each encounter mentioned in John's Gospel teaches us something new about the one amazing Gospel message.  Studying these divine appointments has been such a blessing to us at The Journey!

Nicodemus

(John 3:1-21) – A self-righteous Pharisee, a ruler of the Jews, a member of the Sanhedrin, well-versed in the Scriptures and well thought of by his Jewish community.

Gospel Truth: He still needed to be “born again” to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. Though he had his ‘act’ together, he still needed a work of God in his life.

The Samaritan Woman

(John 4:1-45) – A woman with a grossly sinful past, part of a community of people despised and rejected by the Jews (the Samaritans) and she was moral outcast even among her own people.

Gospel Truth: The need for Jesus transcends racial animosity. God can use the testimony of one sinful & moral outcast to change an entire town within moments of conversion regardless of circumstance.

The Official

(John 4:46-54) – A nobleman, a man with social class and rank amongst his community, he knew of Jesus’ miracles but had no regard for his messiahship, all the man wanted was for his son to be healed.

Gospel Truth: Affliction can be used by God to draw us to him and awaken our hearts to our need of His grace & mercy. Our socioeconomic status plays not a role in our need for a Savior.

The Invalid At The Bethesda Pool

(John 5:1-17) – An invalid for 38 years, another who didn’t know who Jesus was, he also was not interested in honoring Jesus’ messiahship and even reported Jesus to the ruling Jews for healing on the Sabbath.

Gospel Truth: The grace of Jesus is truly amazing that he would show mercy on such an undeserving man who would cause him even more persecution. The Father’s will took precedence over Jesus’ own well-being even when His kingdom work would be overlooked since it was done on the Sabbath.

For a more in-depth look at each encounter or perhaps you need to catch up from graciously serving in the children's or nursery ministries you can take a listen by clicking below.

Part 7 - Nicodemus Part 1

Part 8 - Nicodemus Part 2

Part 10 - Samaritan Woman Part 1

Part 11 - Samaritan Woman Part 2

Part 12 - The Official - Affliction That Brought Salvation

Part 13 - The Invalid at Bethesda - A Wasted Miracle?