40 Days Discussion Questions :: Week 2
A Better Way to Love – John 13:34-35
Jesus changed how we see a fulfilling life. He taught us that real joy comes from loving God and others, not just doing what we want. It's not about feeling good for a moment; it's about a deep love that changes lives, including yours. This week, we'll discuss how Jesus' love can change everything.
Memory Verse for Week 2: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34–35).
1. What stood out to you in this week’s worship service?
2. Read Luke 10:26-28. What does this verse say about loving our neighbor? What does that look like?
3. Read John 13:34-35. Jesus is raising the bar on the love game. What did Jesus add in these verses that was not in the previous verses? How does that change everything?
4. Verse 34 contains a command. To whom does the command apply to? What is the nature of a command?
5. Read Ephesians 5:1-2. Pastor James said that the tip to help live out these verses is to ask ourselves, “What would Jesus do?” How can this question help us “walk in the way of love” like Jesus did?
6. Look again at John 13:35, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Jesus’ post-ascension plan includes making His name known through the love we show each other. Have you considered that the life of every Christ follower is to be spent making His name known by loving others well? What needs to change in your life for you to represent Jesus well?
7. The good news is that we are not expected to love people through our own abilities and effort. Read 1 John 4:10-11. We can never love if we think we have to love others in order for God to love us. We love because God first loved us. Experiencing the love of Christ gives you the ability to express the love of Christ to others. It's the key that unlocks the floodgates of your heart. Why is it easier to love God and others after God showed His love to us?
8. Your struggles with loving people around you come from an inability to know how greatly Jesus loves you. Take a moment to reflect on your relationship with God and with others. Ask yourself, “Does my love for others reflect the love of Jesus in my life?”
9. Who is God calling you to love, even if it feels like a struggle? Be honest with God about your struggles and ask Him to let His love be the catalyst to love. As a group, take time to pray for God to deepen your love for Him and those around you. Ask Him to help you see others through His eyes and to love them as He loves you.
• Who are you praying for and asking to come to one of our Easter services?
• Be sure to mark your calendar and plan to attend Consume! Consume is our Good Friday Worship Service. March 29 at 6:30 pm at the Orange City location.
• We want to inform you that childcare is not provided for Consume, so start planning now.