Small Group Guide: Loving Your Enemies
Opening Prayer
Key Quotes:
- Any version of Christianity that proclaims that it has enemies to attack and defeat doesn't seem like much of a Christianity.
- Any gospel that promises blessing without challenge, moralism without justice, or righteousness without repentance is something other than the gospel of Jesus.
- The strength to love our enemies is not a feeling, but a deep spiritual resolve. The strength to love enemies requires a dramatic reframing of how we see the other.
- When we choose to love even our enemies, our hearts are moved from anger to compassion. We are freed from the bondage to bitterness and despair and hatred.
Key Takeaways:
- Jesus' command to "love your enemies" is a radical and transformative teaching.
- True Christianity cannot coexist with the concept of having enemies.
- Loving enemies is not about being nice or ignoring harm, but about seeking transformation.
- We must reject the culture of "enemying" and instead seek reconciliation and understanding.
- Loving our enemies protects our own hearts from bitterness and hatred.
Discussion Questions:
- What was your initial reaction to Jesus' command to "love your enemies"? How does it challenge you personally?
- Pastor Josh asks, "Can a Christian truly have enemies?" How would you answer this question? How does it make you reconsider your own relationships or attitudes?
- Discuss the difference between loving enemies and excusing harmful behavior. How can we balance love with accountability?
- The sermon mentions several "faux gospels" (Prosperity gospel, Americanity, Therapeutic Moralistic Deism). Have you encountered these? How do they differ from Jesus' teachings?
- Reflect on Dr. King's principle: "Nonviolence seeks to win understanding and friendship." How might this approach change conflicts in your life or in society?
- Pastor Josh suggests reframing "enemy" as a problem rather than a person. How does this shift in perspective impact your approach to difficult relationships or situations?
- Discuss the concept of "compassionate curiosity." How might asking questions about someone's background or experiences help us love those we find difficult?
- How does choosing to love our enemies protect and free our own hearts? Share any personal experiences of this.
Practical Applications:
- This week, identify one person or group you struggle to love. Commit to praying for them daily, asking God to help you see them as He does.
- Practice "compassionate curiosity" by asking thoughtful questions to understand someone you disagree with, rather than arguing or avoiding them.
- Reflect on any "enemying" behaviors in your own life. Choose one to consciously replace with an attitude of reconciliation or understanding.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, your love knows no bounds. Give us the strength and courage to love as you love, even when it's difficult. Transform our hearts, heal our relationships, and use us to bring your reconciling love to a world in need of it. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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