INTRODUCTION
People have very different views of what it means to be Christian. Some people define Christianity as primarily following a list of rules. Some people believe being Christian is defined by having correct theology or the right beliefs. Some people see being Christian as primarily doing good deeds for God. However, when Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment was, he had a very different answer. Jesus said that being Christian was about growing in love for God and others. As Christians, spiritual growth occurs when we grow in our love for God and other people.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- What spiritual and/or church experiences do you remember from your childhood?
- How do you perceive the Christians you grew up around (if any) viewed being Christian?
- Do you agree with their perspective? Why or why not?
- Finish this sentence for yourself: Being Christian is about...?
- In what other ways do you find yourself defining being Christian?
- Do you agree that being Christian is about growing in love for God and other people? Why or why not?
- What are the areas of your life where you need to grow in love?
- What changes should you make in your life to help you grow in your love for God and others?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments. Matthew 22:37-40