Happy Tuesday to you & yours. I hope your week is going great and this message finds you well.
This study guide is based on my recent article, Loving God. Please click here if you have not read it or feel you need a review. The article is based on 1 John 4:7-11. I also recommend you have a Bible, paper, and pen with you as you work through this study guide. Take notes and reflect as God leads you.
This study dives deep into the subject of loving God and how the gospel is a critical component in growing our love for God.
Have a great week!
Loving God
“We Love God by Reflecting Inwardly and Modeling Outwardly the Gospel."
Opening Question: What does love mean to you, and how has your understanding of love changed over time?
“Loving God” Key Takeaways:
God is the source of all love, and true love comes from knowing Him through Jesus Christ.
God's love is demonstrated through action, specifically through sending His Son as a sacrifice for our sins.
Our ability to love others is a direct response to God's love for us.
The gospel is central to understanding and growing in our love for God.
Discussion Questions:
How does the idea that "God is love" challenge or affirm your current view of God?
The article states, "Love is always demonstrated by actions." Can you share an example of how you've experienced this in your own life?
How does understanding God's love as sacrificial change the way we should approach loving others?
Reflect on the statement: "We Love God by Reflecting Inwardly and Modeling Outwardly the Gospel." What does this mean to you practically?
How can meditating on the gospel daily impact our ability to love God and others?
The sermon mentions the risk of making God "too personal" or "too easygoing." How can we maintain a balance between God's love and His holiness in our understanding?
In what ways does our church community reflect God's love? Where can we improve?
Practical Applications:
Daily Gospel Reflection: Commit to spending 5-10 minutes each day reflecting on an aspect of the gospel. How might this practice change your perspective and actions?
Love in Action: Choose one person this week to show sacrificial love to, inspired by God's love for us. Share your experience with the group next time.
Scripture Meditation: Memorize 1 John 4:11 and reflect on its meaning throughout the week.
Self-Examination: Take time to consider how you've experienced God's love in your life. How can you share this love with others?
Outreach: Plan an activity that demonstrates God's love to your community in a tangible way.
Closing Prayer:
Close the session by thanking God for His immeasurable love and asking for His help to reflect that love to others in your daily lives.