Discussion Guide | Obedience From Love

Scriptures  

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. John 14:15 

Principles 

• Christian men have a deep longing to be obedient (Phil 2:13)

All too often we fail resulting in shame and separation

• Often when we succeed, we can become self-sufficient, overly confident, or live in fear of future failure
• We have read and been told if we love God we will obey Him and do the right thing
  • This message has brought life to some and death to others
• Those who love obey. But not all obedience is motivated by love 
• Obedience that is not a heart response is a works response
• Fear, guilt or a desire to manipulate are fleshly drivers of obedience
  • Fear of judgment, damnation, or the censure of other people
  • Guilt motivated by the need to pay for past sins / works led righteousness motivation
  • Belief we can manipulate God and if I obey God He will give me what I want. We try to appease the gods.
• Gospel obedience is a surrender to Love, to the God who is Love, because we know Him who is love.
• We know Him who is love because He pursues us, He is with Us, He dwells inside of us..Gen 3:8-9; Eze 34:11; 1Co 6:19
• Those we love we willingly serve
• Obedience born out of love is fueled by knowing and walking in the Presence of the God who loves you, pursues you, and who is always seeking His sheep.

Considerations

• How do you view John 14:15?
• What motivates you to obey?
• What does it mean to surrender to His love?
• When are you most / least aware of God’s presence?
• What keeps you from knowing and walking in the Presence of the God who Loves, Pursues, and Calls you?

God’s call is an invitation to come, to receive His rest, enjoy His love, and respond with obedient service that flows out of devotion to Him