Worshipping in Spirit and Truth

John 4:4-26
(MP3)

Sometimes, to grow spiritually, we have to be willing to let go of what was ignorant or even harmful growing up in order to take hold of what Jesus really intends for us in our relationship with God and in our family lives. Be aware of an all or nothing thinking.
 
Biblical Text: John 4:4-26
 
Jesus’ Encounter with the Samaritan Woman

1. Jesus asks for a drink. (4:7) At homes our children are thirsty for spiritual, emotional support, safe environment, loving care, etc.
2. Jesus reveals that she has a deeper problem. She should be asking him for what he can give her. (4:10-11) She didn't know who Jesus was but her family heritage only. Have you or your children ever received what Jesus wants to give you.
3. Jesus explains that what he has to offer is greater than what she thinks she needs. (4:15-18) The more we know the depth of our need, the more we know what to ask God for. Without that knowledge, we may come to God looking for something we want or think we need but miss out on receiving what we most need. God uses the, sometimes agonizing, questioning process to help us to get to a deeper place of self-awareness and spiritual readiness. Jesus asks the questions not to make her feel bad, but to rethink through how her past and present choices resonate with her belief.
4. The Father wants believers to worship in Spirit and Truth. (See John 3; 4:25-26; 14:6.) It is a life changing experience with God, not just head knowledge or religious tradition.
5. What does all this have to do with our families of origins and current families and relationships? We have to discontinue the judgmental mindset.

 
Conclusion
Look at your own faith, beliefs, and relationship with God. Are they based on the truth of the Gospel? Are they truly Jesus-centered? Are you experiencing streams of living water flowing up from within from the Spirit of God? Do you have the courage to call out what is not healthy or sound? Do you have the strength to chart a course based on what is most true and most Spirit-led?

Come worship with us at our English service of the International congregation in Yangon!