John 7
by Philip Layton
Jesus goes to the Feast of Tabernacles
Discussion Questions
- Note the disbelief by his brothers (v 5) who later believed.
- What do you think Jesus meant in verses 33-36?
Share your thoughts below, or tweet about it with the #boundlessbible hashtag. Don't forget this week's Children's Challenge!
Going Deeper from 'Words of Life'
It is somewhat difficult for some people to understand similarities between spirit and water. Spirit is invisible, as is breath. However, if you blow on something, the presence of breath is evident. Breath gives life. Water, on the other hand, is a liquid. It is a clear substance that you can see, feel and taste. It also gives life, for every creature, every plant, needs it. Two thirds of the human body consists of water. When this amount decreases, the body weakens – which can eventually lead to death. Just as we need water, and air to breathe, so too do we need the Spirit of God in order to live.
When speaking to the crowd during the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles, Jesus uses the analogy of water to explain the function of the Holy Spirit, to share how vital this is for life itself. The Holy Spirit makes life meaningful and full of purpose. Jesus invites those who are really ‘thirsty’ to come to him, to drink. When people believe in him, he says, their hearts will swell like rivers of living water, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
There is life abundant for those who accept Christ, all because of the Holy Spirit coming upon them. This abundance includes love, wisdom, a caring spirit, a sense of justice, peace, and the strength to carry one another’s burdens. There comes a certain tranquillity within; for Christ’s life, his words, are filled with truth. It is for us, and for others. We can be God’s instruments to reach out and bless others. We can lead them to Jesus, who will – by his Holy Spirit – transform their lives.
This living water, the Holy Spirit, flows for all who are obedient to him. How beautiful are the lives of those who are blessed, and who continue to bless others. The Holy Spirit is the Water of Life!
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I believe in you and surrender my life to you. Fill me with your Spirit, that I may be a blessing to you and to others.
Beverly Ivany
Tags: John