Crossing religious and social boundaries

John 4:1–42; Acts 17:16–34

Use your preferred translation.

How do we listen carefully and still speak clearly about Christ?

• What does the passage say? Restate it in your own words before interpreting it.
• Who is speaking, and to whom?
• What is the surrounding context — what comes just before and after?
• Which words or phrases repeat or stand out?

1. What boundaries does Jesus cross in His conversation with the Samaritan woman?
2. Paul observes Athens carefully before speaking. What does he notice, and how does he use it?
3. Both Jesus and Paul speak plainly about truth. How do they avoid both contempt and compromise?

Who in your life holds a different faith? What do you actually know about what they believe?

Ask someone of a different background a sincere question about their life or beliefs this week, and listen without correcting.

Ask God for genuine curiosity and love toward people unlike you, and for faithfulness in speaking of Christ.