Big Idea: Love is more than a “feel” thing, it’s a “do” thing.

            John 13:1-4a

Love means serving people in ways you don’t feel like serving.

            John 13:4b-8

Love means accepting help you don’t feel like accepting.

            John 13:9-10

Love means serving people you don’t feel like serving.

            John 13:11-17

How do we follow Jesus’ example today?

Message Questions

If you only had hours left to live, what would you do? For Jesus, he chose to spend his last moments before going to the cross teaching his disciples the most important truths they would need to cling to once he was gone. These are the things Jesus knew they needed to know, and we do too. In this message series, we’ll be diving into John 13-16 as we learn more about the Heart of the Teacher: Jesus’ Final Words. This week we are in John 13:1-20, and the big idea is: Love is more than a “feel” thing, it’s a “do” thing. 

Use these questions to discuss the message from Sunday, focusing on how you can grow as an everyday follower of Jesus and how you can go accomplish what Jesus calls you to do. 

1. Have someone read John 13:12-15. Jesus sets an example by washing his disciples’ feet, demonstrating that love is an action, not just a feeling. What does this example teach us about serving others, even in ways we may not feel like? How can you follow his example this week? 
2. Have someone read John 13:4-5 and John 13:11. Jesus served his disciples, including Judas, knowing Judas would betray him. What does this teach us about loving and serving those who are difficult to love? How might God be calling you to serve someone in your life who is hard to serve? 
3. Have someone read John 13:8-10. Peter struggled to let Jesus wash his feet, but Jesus explained it was necessary. Why can it be hard for us to accept help from others, even when we need it? How does receiving love and service from others reflect humility and trust in God? 
4. Wyatt’s message listed several practical ways we can follow Jesus’ example, like forgiving, serving, and giving generously. Which of these resonates most with you? What step can you take this week to grow in showing love as a “do” thing, not just a “feel” thing? 
5. In Mark 1:15, Jesus calls us to repent and believe the good news. How does receiving the love of Jesus empower you to go and share that love with others? Who in your life needs to experience the tangible love of Jesus through your actions, and how can you reach out to them this week?