His Love vs. Ours
OPENING THOUGHT
1 John 4:8 says, “God is love.”
For God, love is not a “what” but an “is.”
We would never talk of our mother, father, preacher, elder, friend, personal hero, or even ourselves as “love.” Maybe we would say, “Mom is loving,” or, “Mom loves,” but we would never say, “Mom is love,” characterizing her as we characterize God.
God is not simply someone who loves. He is the being who is the original source and ultimate fulfillment of all love, drawing all things together by drawing them to himself.
For God, love is not a quality he develops or one that he demonstrates occasionally. For God, love is essential. There is no God without love; they are inseparable. It is a necessary attribute to his being.
EXPLORING GOD’S WORD
Micah 7:18-20
“Steadfast love” occurs twice. It is translated from one of the richest terms in the Old Testament. It denotes kindness, love, loyalty, mercy. When applied to God, it describes the special relationship he has with his covenant people.
How does Micah describe God’s love? Does it come from a place of obligation or shame? Is he reluctant to love us?
The prophet promises the Lord will have compassion “again.” Why is this meaningful?
John 3:16-18
Whom does God love?
To what lengths did God go on account of his love for us?
1 John 4:7-12
Where does real love come from? Does the source of love matter? How?
How was the love of God made manifest?
What obligation is placed on us when we are confronted with God’s love?
Does a person who doesn’t love know God? Explain your answer.
Matthew 5:43-48
What is the common human approach to love?
Who should get our love, according to this passage?
Who are our enemies?
What acts of love should be done on behalf of our enemies?
1 John 4:16-21
What does it mean to be “perfected in love”?
What’s John’s argument concerning those who “hate” their brothers and sisters?
Give some examples of what this hateful behavior might entail.
How do we overcome a lack of love toward others?
