The Intriguing Character of Jesus: How His Words in John Call Us to Live Set Apart
I have been spending time in the Gospel of John lately, and one thing about Jesus has been standing out to me in a powerful way:
His words were never random. They were purposeful, piercing, and personal.
The Character of Jesus in John’s Opening Chapters
To Nathanael: “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” (John 1:48)
To Nicodemus: “You must be born again.” (John 3:7)
To the Samaritan woman: “If you knew the gift of God… you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” (John 4:10)
To the man at Bethesda: “Do you want to be healed?” (John 5:6)
To the Pharisees: “You search the Scriptures… yet you refuse to come to Me that you may have life.” (John 5:39–40)
Every encounter with Jesus left people curious, confronted, or completely changed. He used His words to reveal truth and invite people into life.
What This Means for Us as Followers of Christ
If we belong to Christ, our lives should reflect His character. The Gospel of John reminds us that our witness should intrigue others—not because of us, but because Christ dwells within us. That means two things:
Our actions must align with the Gospel. Living set apart should beg the question, “What makes them so hopeful, so steady, so full of peace?” (1 Peter 3:15).
Our words must point to the Gospel. Sharing the Gospel is not only about how we live—it’s also about the words we speak. Both life and lips are needed to make Christ known.
Practical Ways to Share the Gospel in Everyday Life
Living Set Apart
Practice presence. Slow down to notice people, the way Jesus noticed Nathanael.
Respond differently. When wronged, forgive quickly. When overlooked, serve humbly. When stressed, rest in peace.
Live consistently. Let your faith shape every day of the week, not just Sunday.
Extend hospitality. Invite others into your life and home so they can experience Christ’s love in action.
Speaking with Intention
Ask meaningful questions. Create space for deeper conversations.
Share your why. When people notice your joy or patience, let your response point back to Christ.
Be bold in small ways. Offer to pray for someone, share a verse that encouraged you, or extend an invitation to church.
Let Scripture flow naturally. Weave God’s Word into everyday conversation as Jesus did.
Reflection
The character of Jesus in John’s Gospel was relational, revelatory, and redemptive. If His words intrigued and transformed, ours should do the same.
Ask yourself: Does my life spark curiosity for Christ in the people around me?
A Prayer for Us
Lord, let my life and my lips point others to You. Give me courage to live differently, boldness to speak Your truth in love, and the strength to never yield or bow down to anyone but You—and You alone.
When I feel the urge to prove myself in the heat of the moment, humble my heart to listen first and to speak only through the power of Your sustaining grace. Guard me from leaving Christ’s mark out of my character, that I may not miss the Gospel opportunities You set before me.
Meet the Author
Elle Cardel
Elle is a vessel of God’s grace and truth, belonging wholly to Jesus. She lives in Tennessee with her husband, Michael, and their two little loves, Selah and Aidan. She is passionate about exalting Christ, nurturing family discipleship, and helping women cultivate a deep love for God’s Word.
Through her book and Bible study duo, She Delights, and the free resources she creates for the Daughter of Delight community, Elle encourages women everywhere to deepen their love for Scripture and live out His truth with boldness and grace.
Connect with her on Instagram here.
