Shownotes Transcript
SERMON NOTES (click arrow to the right to open)Main Idea: The world will know that we are Jesus' disciples by loving one another the way Jesus loves us.Sermon Notes:- Through the process of life we are completely dependent while trying to find ways to be independent- Was it ever part of God's plan to live our lives privately and independent of each other?- Community life is central to the teachings of Jesus. He also lived in community. He says that the mark of a true disciple is interdependent loving of each other.- See 1 John 3:23, 1 Thessalonians 4:9, 1 Peter 1:22, 2 Thessalonians 1:3, Galatians 6:2, 2 Peter 1:7. Jesus' command to love is repeated or referenced here. It shows that the first disciples considered this the special law of Christ.- The command to love was not new. What was new was to love as Jesus did.- How do I love the world if I am unable to love my brother or sister in Christ?- Healthy love is not one way. Love is given and love is received.- Love means many things. Here it is AGAPE, seeking the highest good for another.- Cannot separate the love for God and love for each other.It)'s not possible to do one without the other. 1 John 4:16, 19-21.- A key part to Jesus' love was forgiveness. If there is any bitterness toward a brother or sister then it is not possible to obey Jesus in this.- John 15:13 - "greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." 1 John 3:16 - "we ought also lay down our lives for the brethren."- There are more verses in scripture about each other than reaching the lost. If we cannot love each other then we will not be able to make disciples.- Jews were distinguished by their rites, rituals, and dress. The wealthy by their possessions. The military by their uniforms. Disciples are distinguished by their love for each other.- If we get it right in the church, it shows the reality of the Gospel and people will enter the Kingdom.Application Questions:1. What are some examples of how Jesus expressed his love for his disciples?2. How does loving one another well communicate the Gospel to the rest of the world?3. In what ways have you experienced the love of Jesus? How have you experienced love from brothers and sisters in Christ?4. Why is it important to forgive one another? How can unforgiveness keep us from loving each other the way Jesus loves us?