I. WHAT KIND OF LOVE DOES FOLLOWERS OF JESUS SHOW? v. 31-33

A. It is costly

B. It is caring

II. WHY DO FOLLOWERS OF JESUS SHOW LOVE? v. 34-38

A. Because of His command

B. Because of His commitment

SERMON TAKE HOME PRINCIPLE: Jesus commands us to love one another even as He loved us.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS:

1. How is it ironic (providential) that Jesus gave His new commandment in the midst of knowing what Judas and Peter were about to do (13:34–35: cf. 15:12–13)? How must Jesus have felt? When others disappoint me or hurt me, how can I respond with love and grace?

2. Why is actively loving other Christians such an effective way to evangelize non-Christians (13:35)? How has Jesus loved me? How can I love someone this week with this same love? Who will I intentionally love this week? In what practical ways will I show this person my love?

3. How can I express my love for my church family? What does this look like? What can I do to avoid discouragement from other Christians? Who can encourage me to persevere in my love for my brothers and sisters in Christ?

4. What can I learn from Peter’s mistakes (13:36–38)? When have I struggled with spiritual pride? What happened as a result? How can I cultivate absolute dependency and humility upon Jesus? What has occurred when I have fully submitted myself to Christ?