Bible Question:
How would you characterize the nature of the “thirst” Jesus talked about in John 7:37 to a non-Christian who says that he does not feel thirsty?
Bible Answer:
In a hot desert, a man or a woman does not always sense that he or she is thirsty. Many people have died because of their exhaustion without knowing they needed water. The same is true in spiritual things. Jesus’ statement is great. He says, “If any man is thirsty . . .”
Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If any man is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. (NASB) John 7:37
Spiritually Thirsty?
Many are not willing to admit that they are spiritually thirsty on this planet. Even though God has given us a sense of Himself in the creation (Rom. 1:20-22) and a sense of His absolute moral standard (Rom. 2:14-15), some men and women reject the idea of a god because they believe it is foolishness.
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (NASB) 1 Corinthians 1:18
Yet, the majority of the world does believe in a god. Most of us sense a spiritual need. You may want to ask why most of the world senses a spiritual need for God. Do they have spiritual heat exhaustion? Do they consider the idea of God to be foolish? The Bible says this is the common issue. Next comes an unwillingess to believe and submit to God. This may encourge the people to think spiritually. Ultimately, only the Holy Spirit can help them sense their thirst. He uses us to communicate the truth about Jesus Christ to them.
The Water!
What kind of water is Jesus talking about? He is talking about spiritual water – the Holy Spirit.
He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, “From his innermost being shall flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive (NASB) John 7:38-39
The Holy Spirit comes into our lives and satisfies our spiritual thirst for God. You could suggest that they might want to ask God to help them sense their spiritual thirst and that He is real. This must happen before one realizes the need for God’s forgiveness and desire Him to do this. They also need to understand that only Jesus can forgive their sins. Only Jesus is God. They must give up on themselves and believe or depend on Him.
Conclusion:
Living spiritual water! It only comes from God.