BIG IDEA

We’re called to be for others.

MESSAGE NOTES:

WHAT:

When we're in conflict with others, we tend to draw battle lines between "us" and "them."

SO WHAT:

When God created everything, humans were designed to be in relationship with God and with each other.

But we messed that up. We created dividing lines between us and God. We created dividing lines between us and others.

God looks at us and says, "It's not 'me or you.' It's 'Me for you.'"

God was going to bless Israel so Israel could bless the whole world. But Instead of being a blessing, Israel hurt and oppressed others.

Jeremiah 29:7 Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

God's people would do things differently. God's people would be for others, just like God had been for them.

NOW WHAT:

How can you be for people, like God is for you?

Resolve a conflict. Make a friend. Learn from someone new. Share what you have.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

Q1: What are some unhealthy ways you've seen people handle their disagreements with, or dislike for, each other?

Q2: What's one reason we might view someone else as an enemy?.

Q3: What could you have treated an “enemy” differently to be for them, instead of against them?

Q4: Psalm 103:8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.

What's one situation or relationship where you need help responding to someone the same way God responds to you?

Q5: What's one way you can show someone you are “for” them?

Q6: Why would it be helpful to learn from someone new or different? What might you hope to learn from them?

Q7: How can we practically share what we have with others?