Getting to Know You:
If you could change any of your current life circumstances, what would you change and why?
Going Deeper:
Read Matthew 5:43-48.
Have you had a lingering hurt in your life?
Have you had a lingering hurt in your life that came by way of another Christ follower?
Is there bitterness that has been born out of the
hurt?
In hurt and bitterness have you ever considered that you may be viewing their sin toward you as worse than your sin is to God?
How is God’s standard of love revealed in the cross? Read 1 John 4:10, Romans 5:8, and John 14:1-4.
The cross is love – it is unearned (Isaiah 49:1-13), unmerited (Job 7:17), and unhindered (Romans 8:39). Read each passage and discuss each of these aspects of the love of Christ that are shown through the cross.
In John 10:34, Jesus said “I give you a new command, love one another.” How is this kind of love different from the reciprocal love that is typical in the world? Answer using Luke 10:25- 37.
Taking it Home:
Consider this statement Steve made near the end of his message: “There is no greater measure of spiritual maturity than how a Christian responds to those who hurt them.”
What first step could you take to remove that lingering hurt in your life?
Would you be willing to allow someone to help you in releasing your offense and the person who offended you? This week talk to someone in this group, or a Pastor, and ask them to pray with you and for you.
