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A Blueprint for Reaching the Lost
John Ogden Sr
June 17, 2025
In John 4:1-26, we find the story of the Samaritan woman. The Scriptures do not even record her name, but after an encounter with Jesus Christ, not only was her life transformed, but an entire city was changed as well. The story unfolds as the Samaritan woman goes to the well to draw water. Jesus’ disciples had gone to town to attend to the material things in life, while Jesus, led by the Spirit, had other plans. The Jews of that day would not even speak to the Samaritan woman –she was of a despised race. Because Jesus was different, her life was changed forever.
Jesus used eight principles when witnessing to this lady. First, He made contact with her. She was not looking for Him, but He was looking for her. He did not isolate Himself, even from the undesirable. He realized to reach the lost, He must be where the lost were. Second, He used the well and her thirst as a common ground. He related to her about her interests. Third, He allowed her to speak, and He listened. He knew that people liked to hear their own voices. We should listen not only to what a person is saying but to what the Spirit of God is saying. This will give us insight. Fourth, He aroused her interest with the thought of never being thirsty again. Fifth, He took His time and did not push her to where she was not ready to go. He only communicated with her enough to make her hungry. Sixth, He accepted her as she was. He knew her lifestyle but never condemned her for it. Seventh, He stayed with the key issue of seeing her life changed. He did not allow His attention to be diverted from the real issue. Eighth, He communicated directly and simply. He operated from a position of love and did not use elaborate language or confuse issues.
Are you willing to be a witness? For some, this is a scary thought, but it is not difficult. Ask God to set up divine appointments and share Jesus as doors open. Our responsibility is to lead others; it is Christ’s responsibility to save the lost.
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