Worship Folder

Outline

Love requires faith. It is supernatural – extending even to our enemies. In order to bless those who persecute us, we have to be sourcing our love in the Father’s love for us – showing mercy to others as He has shown mercy to us.

I. KNOWING THE ENEMY
“Enemy” is a description of how someone is treating you.

II. DESTROYING THE ENEMY
An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind.

III. LOVING THE ENEMY
The Cross is not the way of the kingdom; it is the kingdom come!

Discussion Questions

1. How did we define an enemy? How was that helpful to you?
2. Who is treating you like an enemy? How are you relating to them in return? How are you doing at loving them? (This is a very personal question.)
3. “Do unto others as they do to you” or “Do unto others as you would have them do to you” – which is the Golden Rule? What’s the difference?
4. In the sermon we said that there were two reasons why seeking revenge is the wrong strategy: 1) Why is it not our place?; and 2) What is the outcome it produces? And have you experienced this?
5. So, how are you supposed to engage with someone who is treating you like an enemy? How do you do that?
6. What does it mean to source your love for others in God’s love for you, not in their love? (We are to show mercy “even as” God has shown mercy to us. - Luke 6:36) … When you were God’s enemy, how did He love you?!