Excuses That Prove We Still Don’t Get It

Let me explain my title. Over the last few weeks in John 3 and 4, we have seen two powerful illustrations that Jesus can save anyone – a religious man or a rebellious woman. I believe that we have all been blessed by the metaphors Jesus uses about salvation like being born again of the Spirit and drinking from the springs of living water. We have heard the amens and given our head nods of agreement that Jesus alone saves and Jesus alone satisfies. I’m not talking about the merits or impressiveness of the messages you have heard, but rather the simple fact that the truths here are powerful and convicting. So why are we so full of excuses when it comes to sharing our faith with others?

I. for Evangelizing (27-38)

A. “They won’t be .” (27-30)

• There were two rolling around in the disciples’ minds that they wanted to ask Jesus but didn’t: “What are you seeking?” and “ are you talking with her?” 
• Our opinion is that certain people won’t respond to the gospel.
• When a person is right with Jesus Christ, he or she will have a to witness.

B. “I’m too .” (31-34)

• Jesus is so with the matter at hand, He doesn’t want to stop and eat. 
• There is something nourishing and about serving God. One of the most satisfying things we can do in life is to a sinner that he or she may be saved from all of their sins.

C. “I’ll do it .” (35)

• Jesus points out the that so often characterizes our work for God.  
• Sometimes, people can get focused on some big program and the person working right next to them who needs harvesting.
• Today, we need people to the seed of the gospel. Today, we need people to the seed of the gospel. Today, we need people to the seed of the gospel.

II. for Evangelizing (39-42)

• Sharing the gospel isn’t dependent on our , our wisdom, or our work. 
• When the gospel is clearly and faithfully , men and women will come to Christ.
• William Barclay wrote, “Christianity is built on the twin pillars of discovery and .” We first discover Christ; we then share our with others.