166 Thrive Deeper: John Chapters 4-7

John Chapters 4-7 focus on the interactions of Jesus with various people and groups, highlighting his teachings and miracles. In Chapter 4, Jesus speaks with a Samaritan woman at a well, breaking social and cultural norms, and revealing to her that he is the Messiah. This interaction leads to many Samaritans coming to believe in Jesus. In Chapter 5, Jesus heals a man who had been an invalid for 38 years, but the religious leaders criticize him for doing so on the Sabbath. Jesus defends himself, saying that he is doing the work of his Father. Chapter 6 contains the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus' discourse on being the bread of life. Jesus' teachings on the Eucharist are introduced in this chapter, causing many disciples to turn away from him. In Chapter 7, Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles and teaches in the temple. He is met with opposition from the religious leaders, but many people believe in him nonetheless. There is much insight here as we look at both the cultural and spiritual impact of Jesus' ministry.