"Could this be the Messiah?"

John 4:29 (NIV)

She asked a question, not a declaration. The Samaritan woman could have proclaimed, "This IS the Messiah!" Instead, she wisely asked, "Could this be?" Her question created curiosity rather than resistance.

Questions open doors that statements often close. When we declare spiritual truths to skeptics, their defenses rise immediately. But when we ask thoughtful questions, we invite them to think. Questions make people participants in discovery rather than targets of persuasion.

The woman understood her audience perfectly. Her townspeople knew her reputation and might dismiss her claims. But they couldn't dismiss their own curiosity. By asking rather than telling, she made them want to investigate for themselves.

Strategic questions are powerful Bridgemaking tools. "Have you ever wondered why life feels empty?" works better than "You need Jesus." "What do you think happens after death?" invites discussion. "Could God be trying to tell you something?" opens hearts without forcing them.

Notice how her question included possibility and hope. She didn't ask, "Is this another false prophet?" or "What do you think of this stranger?" She asked specifically about their shared hope—the Messiah. She connected her question to their deepest spiritual longing.

Godseekers, your questions can build bridges or walls. The right question at the right moment can lead someone toward Christ. Like the Samaritan woman, learn to ask questions that create curiosity about Jesus. Let your questions invite investigation rather than demand immediate belief.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, teach me to ask wise questions like the Samaritan woman. Help me resist the urge to preach when I should be inviting. Give me wisdom to ask questions that open hearts rather than close minds. Show me how to create curiosity about You through thoughtful questions. Make me a Bridgemaker who invites discovery. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Personal Reflection

1. What questions could you ask that would make someone curious about faith rather than defensive?
2. How can you reframe your testimony as questions that invite others to explore?

Step of Faith

Today, I will ask someone a spiritual question that invites thought rather than making a statement that might trigger resistance.