Download the word document:Making the Connection 7-19-09

Making the Connection:

Jesus, One Another, the World

John 13:34-35

(July 19, 2009)

- Life Group Discussion Guide -

OPEN:

1. In what ways would getting “the most important” commandment right influence other areas of our lives including relationships?

2. How significant is it to you that the “focus” of Jesus final teaching session before his death centered on “Loving One Another”?

(a.) What are some farewell addresses with which you are familiar?

(b.) What impact does the “last words” of a person you love and respect have on you?

DIG:

1. In what way is Jesus command to “Love each other” a “new” command?

(a.) How does the phrase “as I have loved you” qualify the command? (See I John 4:7-12)

(b.) Can you name some occasions when Jesus demonstrated “His love for his disciples”?

* In terms of sacrifice?

* In terms of patience?

* In terms of understanding?

* In terms of forgiveness?

2. How do these demonstrations of love toward the 12 translate in to how we should treat each other? (See I Cor. 13:1-7)

(a)How does this impact the world’s view of us?

(b) If we don’t practice this kind of Jesus love toward each other – How will the world see us?

3. In what way does maintaining a meaningful and connected relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit empower and produce the love Jesus command in our lives?

(a.) The model of Jesus?

(b.) The value of experiencing the love of Jesus?

(c.) Remaining in him and his words in us?

(d.) The Holy Spirit in us forever?

(See also I John 2:24b; 4:13-16)

Reflect / Apply:

1. What are some ways you have experienced the love of Jesus that need to be demonstrated more effectively in your Christian relationships?

2. With whom and where will you begin to love some this week the way Jesus loves you?

Filed under: Life Group by pam