Opening Discussion

• Research shows that the highest predictor of a meaningful, happy, and fulfilled life, is deep, loving relationships. How have you seen this to be true in your own life?
• Why might some people push back against this?

Read and Discuss

John 13:31-33 CSB

31 When he [Judas] had left, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in him. 32 If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once. 33 Little children, I am with you a little while longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so now I tell you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’

• This conversation takes place during the last meal that Jesus would share with His disciples before His death.
• Why does Jesus mention glory so much in this passage?
• What is Jesus wanting the disciples to know?
• If you knew you were about to die, what would you say to your closest friends and family?

John 13:34-35

34 “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

• Why does Jesus say this is a new commandment?
• What were some ways that Jesus loved His disciples?
• Why will people know Jesus’ disciples by their love for one another?
• When it comes to loving others, how would you rate yourself?
• If people outside of the church were to describe followers of Jesus, do you think they would talk about how they love one another?
  • If not, why do you think that is?
• Within your group of friends, how do you show love to one another?

Apply it!

• If you are currently part of a group or team, what is one way you can grow deeper in relationship with one another?
• If you aren’t currently in a group or team, what would it take for you to join one?
  • Who can you talk to this week to make it happen?

Memorize it!

John 13:34-35

34 “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Prayer TACOS

Thank God for giving us an example in Jesus to follow on how to love one another.

Adoration- Worship the Lord for creating ways for us to grow in our faith in Him through friendships

Confess to those times when you have done a poor job of loving others and ask for His forgiveness

Others- Pray for someone who needs to be part of your group or team. Pray for boldness to ask them to join you this week.

Self- Ask the Lord to surround you with followers of Jesus to help you grow in your faith, and to put people who are not yet followers in your path so that you can show them the love of Jesus.