What The Flock?
Love God by Loving People | Week 2
March 26, 2023 | By Ben Foote
In 2023 it seems like the world is more divided than ever. But Jesus is clear that we are commanded to love and serve others, regardless of differing perspectives, opinions, and voting histories. Today Ben Foote will lead us through scripture that warns against giving lip service to Jesus without following through with acts of love and service, and reminds us that loving others is an indicator that their faith is truly alive and real.
SETLIST
Keep On Getting Better by Maverick City Music Available on Maverick City, Vol 2 From Maverick City Music
Battle Belongs by Phil Wickham Available on “Hymn Of Heaven” from Columbia Records from Phil Wickham
Gratitude By Brandon Lake Available on "House Of Miracles" from Brandon Lake
All Hail King Jesus by Bethel Music Available on "Homecoming (Live)" from Bethel Music
GROUP QUESTIONS
// Bible References
Matthew 25:31-46, Eph 2:8,9 James 2:14-17, Psalm 34:18, Isaiah 61:1, 66:13, Matthew 5:3-10, Rev 21:4, 2 Corinthians 4:8,9, 16-17
// Community Question
Who do you think of when you hear “he or she is a good person”? What characteristics does that person have that make you think of them as good?
// Discussion Questions
1. Read Matthew 25:35-36. According to this passage how do God’s people look different from those who do not follow Jesus?
2. Read Matthew 25:37-40. Jesus says that we served Him when we served the “least of these.” Who are the least of these? What does it look like to care for them?
3. Read Matthew 25:41-46. This passage is a dramatic warning designed to spur people onto authentic faith who only give Jesus lip service. Does this passage make us nervous? Why or why not? Take a moment to reflect on this passage, then go around the room and share your thoughts on it.
4. Read Matthew 5:3,10; 25:40. These passages reveal that Jesus can understand people who are hungry, thirsty, destitute, sick, and imprisoned. Christ can relate to them because He chose to suffer just as much. How can knowing that Christ chose to learn through experience how to carry human suffering encourage us in our suffering?
5. Read Rev 21:4. In this passage Christ says that He will one day end suffering. This means that Jesus is not only the Good Shepherd who can carry your burdens but is a King that can conquer them. Does this give us hope? Why or why not?
// Challenge: In what way is God asking us to demonstrate our love for Him by loving people this week? Could it be through forgiveness, volunteering, giving, serving, or something else?
