We think the best of each other and speak the truth in love.
Talking Points:
- Healthy relationships are authentic. Spiritual gifts in the church are worthless if we’re not bought into Jesus’ command to love one another. 1 Corinthians 13:2
- Healthy relationships are imperfect. This means we courageously confront what’s bad and affirm what’s good. Romans 12:9-10
- Healthy relationships are nurtured. Good relational skills aren’t natural to anyone, but they can become second nature for those who walk by the Spirit. Romans 12:15-17
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share about one of your most impactful friendships. How has that person both helped and challenged you?
- What does an authentic relationship look like? How have you seen inauthenticity in your church relationships?
- Read Romans 12:9-10 and 1 Corinthians 13:2. Why do you think Paul uses the word “pretend” when referencing love? Why are spiritual gifts useless if love isn’t at the root?
- Read Matthew 18:15 and Leviticus 19:17-18. What is the Matthew 18 protocol in your own words? What are these passages saying about the right way to confront someone?
- Read Romans 12:2. What does Paul warn against in this verse? How does the world encourage us to deal with grievances? How does God want us to think about those that hurt us?
- Read Galatians 5:22-23. How do each of the fruits of the Spirit help us to have healthier relationships?
- Read Romans 12:15-17. How can empathy change the course of a relationship? What does humility look like in your relationships?
- Is there someone with whom you need to forgive an offense? What’s holding you back?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
