Message: The Lifelong Journey of John
Speaker: Greg Holder
"Stay in a conflict long enough and somewhere along the way, you start thinking it's normal, or at least unavoidable. Is it possible that in our own fractious times we, too, have grown accustomed to warring? Have we forgotten how to speak without battle axes or battering rams? There has to be a better way. Our insides scream for a better way."
"Nothing is more important for the development of love than being loved." Scot McKnight
Read
Read and discuss the following scriptures:
Mark 3:16-17
Mark 10:37
Mark 9:38
Luke 9:54
Discuss nicknames. Do you have a nickname and how did you get it?
In reading these scriptures, why do you think John received the nickname "sons of thunder?"
Can you relate to John's nickname? if so, how?
Discuss the following:
Have you ever desired to be put in a position that you didn't deserve, yet ask for anyway?
When did you compete (in the wrong way) with someone?
Have you ever thought more of yourself than you should? Explain
John figures is out - Read 1 John 4:11,21
What changed John from "sons of thunder" to "the disciple whom Jesus loved?"
Discuss the strongest person you know and the most loving person you know?
Are they the same?
If not, how are they different?
When we don't agree, how can we still love the person we disagree with?
Who should our example of love be?
How can we find out more from Jesus' example of love? Where do we go to search for that love?
If we get our strength from Jesus, and love the way He loves, how will that cause us to love differently?
How will that unite us?
How would you describe your experience with Jesus?
How does that help you to love others?
Close with a summation of Revelation 4-5.
What stands out to you most in these chapters.
Hope has a name: Jesus