Primary Scripture: John 15:1-17
BIG IDEA: Keeping Jesus’ commands is a way to remain in Jesus’ love.
Message Focus: The language is clear: if you keep my commands, you will remain in my love. Jesus said that He had done the same thing in relation to the Father. It will be important to help people avoid falling into legalism. As equally important is over-correcting into the other ditch that it doesn’t matter how I live. Jesus revealed His command: love each other… as I have loved you.
Prompting Questions: Legalism is a word tossed around often in the evangelical world – what does it actually mean? How do grace and obedience work in fellowship? Why is obedience to God a sign of love for God?
Cross References: 1 John 5:18, Galatians 3:24-27, Matthew 22:37-40, Psalm 8:4