Build - Week One

1. Have everyone turn to Matthew 22:37-40 and read it together: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” Pastor Jon pointed out that right after loving God comes loving our neighbor – it’s a relational commandment. How does seeing love as a commandment, not just a feeling, change how we approach relationships? What does it mean to love others “as yourself”? 

2. Read John 15:1-4. Jesus says He is the vine and we are the branches, and that a branch cannot bear fruit by itself. Pastor Jon brought a physical branch to demonstrate this truth. How does this passage challenge the “Right Person Illusion” that our pastor described? What does it mean for us to “bear fruit” in our relationships? 

3. Have everyone turn to 1 Corinthians 13 and read verses 4-7 together. Pastor Jon mentioned these characteristics when discussing his fears about becoming a father. How does remaining connected to the vine help us develop these qualities in our relationships? 

4. He also challenged us with these questions: “Are you the person that the person you’re looking for is looking for?” Or if married: “Are you still the person they were looking for?” How does this question challenge your approach to relationships? 

5. Have everyone turn to John 15:5 and read it together: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Pastor Jon emphasized connection over effort. What does this verse reveal about our ability to grow and change on our own? How does this reshape your view of personal transformation? 

6. Read John 15:9-10: “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love.” During the sermon he talked about consistency in staying connected to the vine. How does this passage show us the connection between remaining in Christ and obedience? What practical steps can we take to “remain” in His love daily?