From Son of Thunder to Apostle of Love
Big Idea: Following Jesus is about love.
Message Questions
Arguably no one was closer to Jesus than John. Known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” John got to see the abundant life of Jesus up close and personal. And after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, John experienced a life of following Jesus longer than any other New Testament author. Now, at the end of a life well lived, having nearly finished the race, John has some thoughts he’d like to share with us. What does it look like to embrace the new life that Jesus offers us? What will bring abundance and joy? According to John, it looks like walking in love, truth, and light. This week we are in 1 John 1:1-4, and the big idea is: Following Jesus is about love.
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.
- Have someone read 1 John 1:1-2. John emphasizes that he and others heard, saw, and touched Jesus—the “word of life.” Why do you think John begins his letter with such tangible, physical descriptions of Jesus? How does this reinforce that our faith is rooted in real life, not just ideas?
- Have someone read 1 John 1:3. John says he shares this message so others can have fellowship with God and his people. How does your relationship with Jesus shape the way you pursue relationships with others?
- Have someone read 1 John 1:4. John connects the act of sharing Jesus with experiencing complete joy. When have you felt the joy of sharing your faith or seeing someone else connect more deeply with Jesus?
- In what ways can you grow in viewing your relationship with Jesus not just as a belief system or duty, but as a source of deep love and joy?
- Who in your life needs to experience the relational and joyful nature of following Jesus? How can you go this week and invite them into that kind of fellowship with him?
Comments 2
For those of us old fogeys who are not up on the current vernacular, it might be helpful if you explain the term
“OG” in an upcoming sermon, unless I missed it yesterday. I had to look it up, and found it means Original Gangsta, or someone of high repute. I would love to know your thoughts in the next sermon as to why you chose this title for the series, although I think I can guess. Thanks.
Hi Mike,
Hope you are well. As for the definition to OG, it is short for “Original”. Pastor Wyatt made a joke about it early in his sermon, but totally understand if you missed it. Hope that helps! Have a great week!