Thursday, May 3, 2018

Is your love directed toward the Father or toward the world? (1 John 2)

How would you define "LOVE"?

Read 1 John 2:15-17

Define what is meant by "loving the world" (eg. loving food is different than loving a spouse).

Is it possible to "do" or "have" the things of the world without "loving" them? Why or why not? Give examples.

Read the three ways John defines "love of the world". Describe how each of these cravings have impacted you throughout your life.  

Read the following verses and discuss what they teach about the Christian's relationship with the world?

- Matthew 5:13-16
- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31
- 1 Peter 2:11-12
- Titus 2:11-14

Pride causes us to believe that we alone are responsible for all we have achieved and accumulated. Gratitude helps us defeat pride. Who has helped you become the person you are? How has God helped you achieve your current successes?

The cravings of the eyes distract us from what God has already provided. Instead of focusing on what you don't have, be content with what God has given. Make a list of five great gifts God has provided.

Selfishness is refusing to see past my immediate desires for pleasure and fulfillment.(being consumed with the lust of the flesh) The opposite of selfishness is generosity. To whom can you be generous this week?

How does gratitude help you be more content?

How does contentment empower you to be generous?

Love for God begins with focusing on what He has done for us and is completed when we allow that love to flow into our relationships with others. To whom will you demonstrate love this week?

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