1. What are qualities of a bad boss who makes it hard to obey or listen to them? Why do we often project these qualities on Jesus?

2. How do you enjoy God's presence throughout the week?

1. John 15:9-11 tells us that love and obedience go hand in hand. What are some ways that make this statement easier to understand? (Think of relationships in your life or situations you've been in when this statement has proven true.)

2. Read through 1 Peter 5:7 and Psalm 46:10. How do these two verses call us to obedience?

3. Others see how we bear fruit in our lives and often want to know more about The One who causes us to bear this fruit. Read Galatians 5:22-23 to see the list of the Fruit of the Spirit. Which fruit do you feel you exhibit the most? Which fruit do you feel you need God's help to exhibit?

4. Put yourself in the room with Jesus and the disciples as you read John 15:17. In this verse, we see the command Jesus gives to "love each other". While this command is very clear, what things or circumstances in life make it hard to follow?

5. Ben talked about sacrifice being more than just physical things as we find big and small ways to care for one another. He talked about many ways this can be done at church (serving on the weekends, participating in outreach, giving of tithes). What are ways you can sacrifice at work? At home? In living your everyday life? How are these sacrifices allowing you to love others as Jesus loves us and show your obedience?

1. If you've never taken our class called Explorations (or if it has been a while since you've taken it), the fall semester session begins soon and this might be your next step! You can go to https://thecrossing.church/calendar/26 to get signed up!

2. How can you "go and love as you have been loved" throughout this week?

3. What fruit of the spirit do you hope to bear this week?

4. Ben gave us all a very clear next step that does require a sacrifice: Think of the singles in your life. How can you invite them into your life and family in the coming days and weeks?

Jesus, help us to be intentional in our everyday lives as we work to love others and be obedient to You. May others see the difference You make in our lives as we take steps of obedience, as we allow joy to be present in storms, and as we continue to pursue a genuine friendship with You. Keep refining, correcting, and transforming every aspect of our lives. Help us to see others as you see them, with love and compassion, and obey the calls you put on our lives to make sacrifices each day out of love for You. Like Pagratius, may we each be ones who bear much fruit. So be it and Amen.