Big Idea

The way of Jesus challenges us to ask: “What does love require of me?”

Scripture

Matthew 5:17-48, Matthew 22:37-40

Ice Breaker and Opening Thought

1. Do you watch the Olympics? Which event is your favorite?
2. Finding your way back to God means recognizing Jesus as THE WAY. Jesus is King, and every person has to decide whether they will give their allegiance to him or to another. Have you ever found yourself looking to earthly desires to determine your allegiances?

Bible Discussion

3. Read Matthew 5:17-48. Jesus makes it clear that He hasn’t come to throw out the Law but to fulfill it. What this means is that everything in the Old Testament was leading us to Him. God’s plan has always been to be our King and to invite us to live in His kingdom. That plan has become a reality in Jesus. What would be the burden of your sin had Jesus not come to fulfill the Law of the Old Testament?
4. Read Matthew 22:37-40. When Jesus says that everything in the Law and Prophets hangs on loving God and loving people, He’s telling us that in His kingdom, the way to live out the Scriptures is to love. Especially in this combustive social environment, have you found yourself sometimes struggling with love for others different from yourself?

Life Application

5. When Jesus says everything in the Law and Prophets hangs on loving God and loving people, He’s telling us that in His kingdom, the way to live out the Scriptures is to love. Jesus isn’t after mere external conformity to a list of commands; he’s after the heart. Jesus wants transformed hearts, not just right behaviors. In your walk with Christ, how would you like your heart transformed, or how have you experienced a heart transformation?
6. In his Christian song, Love God, Love People, Danny Gokey breaks it his chorus below. What parts of the song resonate with you? Why?

Gotta keep it real simple
Keep it real simple
Bring everything right back to ground zero
‘Cause it all comes down to this
Love God and love people
We’re living in a world that keeps breakin’
But if we want to find a way to change it
It all comes down to this
Love God and love people

Challenge

What are some ways you’ve learned to bring yourself back to the true basics of Christ’s commands? For some, it might be more focused on prayer, or in volunteer work, or some other form of service to others. Consider when you feel most in tune with the love of Christ. How can you do that this week?