Crisis of Confidence // A Guide to an Empowered Life / 04. Empowered… in relationships - Stephen Dawson // John 15:8-17
04. Empowered… in relationships - Stephen Dawson // John 15:8-17
In this talk, Stephen Dawson explores the transformative power of abiding in Christ's love and how it empowers our relationships. The central scripture, John 15:8-17, invites us to dwell in Jesus' love just as He dwells in the Father's love. This beautiful imagery of interconnectedness reminds us that we're not just servants, but friends chosen by God.
The key lesson here is that to truly abide in Christ's love, we must obey His commandments - primarily, to love one another as He has loved us. This sacrificial love, exemplified by Jesus laying down His life for us, challenges us to move beyond self-centeredness and into a life of fruitful discipleship. As we wrestle with the complexities of human relationships, we're reminded that the Holy Spirit is our helper, empowering us with fruits like patience, kindness, and self-control. This message encourages us to actively and creatively love others, promising that in doing so, we'll find our own joy made complete.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions various relationship challenges people might face. Which of these resonated with you most, and why?
How does the concept of "abiding in Christ's love" differ from worldly ideas about empowered relationships?
"To be a disciple is to be a follower and we're going to prove to others we're followers, disciples of Jesus, that we need to be like Jesus was." How can we practically imitate Jesus in our relationships?
Discuss the significance of Jesus calling us "friends" rather than just servants. How does this impact your view of your relationship with God?
Share an experience where you struggled to forgive someone. How did (or could) relying on the Holy Spirit help in that situation?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
This week, identify one relationship in your life that needs improvement. Commit to praying daily for God's guidance and the Holy Spirit's empowerment in that relationship.
If you're holding onto unforgiveness, take time to journal about it and ask God for help in the forgiveness process.
Reflect on how you can make your church community more meaningful by actively loving and connecting with others in the congregation.
Memorise John 15:12: "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you."
The key lesson here is that to truly abide in Christ's love, we must obey His commandments - primarily, to love one another as He has loved us. This sacrificial love, exemplified by Jesus laying down His life for us, challenges us to move beyond self-centeredness and into a life of fruitful discipleship. As we wrestle with the complexities of human relationships, we're reminded that the Holy Spirit is our helper, empowering us with fruits like patience, kindness, and self-control. This message encourages us to actively and creatively love others, promising that in doing so, we'll find our own joy made complete.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions various relationship challenges people might face. Which of these resonated with you most, and why?
How does the concept of "abiding in Christ's love" differ from worldly ideas about empowered relationships?
"To be a disciple is to be a follower and we're going to prove to others we're followers, disciples of Jesus, that we need to be like Jesus was." How can we practically imitate Jesus in our relationships?
Discuss the significance of Jesus calling us "friends" rather than just servants. How does this impact your view of your relationship with God?
Share an experience where you struggled to forgive someone. How did (or could) relying on the Holy Spirit help in that situation?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
This week, identify one relationship in your life that needs improvement. Commit to praying daily for God's guidance and the Holy Spirit's empowerment in that relationship.
If you're holding onto unforgiveness, take time to journal about it and ask God for help in the forgiveness process.
Reflect on how you can make your church community more meaningful by actively loving and connecting with others in the congregation.
Memorise John 15:12: "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you."
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