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Sermon Series Brand New Week 4 Discussion Questions INTRODUCTION 

The arrival of Jesus signaled the end of the temple model and the beginning of something brand new—an approach to faith characterized by love of others. The temple model is you-focused, but Jesus’ new covenant calls for a focus on the you beside you. So, what is required if we want to follow Jesus’ example and radically love the people around us? 

  1. Talk about a time this week when someone did a small act of kindness for you. What did it do for your day or your week? 

  2. What are some of the costs of Christians being more concerned with following rules than in the ways they mistreat others? How might it influence the way unchurched people view God? 

  3. During the message, Jon said, “Your devotion to God is illustrated, demonstrated, and authenticated by your love for others.” Do you agree with that statement? Why or why not? 

  4. Read Matthew 25:31–40. In what ways does this passage challenge your assumptions about God? What are its implications in your daily life? 

  5. What is one group of people that is different from you that you find difficult to love? Consider the words of Matthew 25:31–40 in light of that group. What are some obstacles you would have to overcome to love that group of people? 

  6. Think about a difficult relationship in your life. Within the context of that relationship, what does love require of you? Be specific. What can this group do to support you and hold you accountable as you move to love that person?

Next Steps

Love offers us no place to hide. It offers no loopholes, shortcuts, or workarounds. But aren’t you glad Jesus didn’t look for a loophole to loving you? What does love require of you at home, at work, on the little league field, in traffic, in line at the grocery store? We almost always know the answer to that question. The hard part is actually doing what love requires. 

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”
Matthew 25:40 

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