Play-by-Play: John (3/3)Sample

The Power of God’s Love

Theme verse: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:12-13

Remember the Titans is regarded as one of the best football films of all time. The biographical sports movie is based on the true story of African American coach Herman Boone. He integrated his high school football team in 1971. Fed up with his players’ inability to see past their differences and come together as a team, Coach Boone took his players on an early morning run that led to the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, where Boone reminded them all to “take a lesson from the dead.”

“This is where they fought the battle of Gettysburg. Fifty thousand men died right here on this field, fighting the same fight that we are still fighting among ourselves today. This green field right here, painted red, bubblin’ with the blood of young boys. Smoke and hot lead pouring right through their bodies. Listen to their souls, men. I killed my brother with malice in my heart. Hatred destroyed my family. You listen, and you take a lesson from the dead. If we don’t come together right now on this hallowed ground, we too will be destroyed, just like they were. I don’t care if you like each other or not, but you will respect each other. And maybe … I don’t know, maybe we’ll learn to play this game like men.” – Coach Herman Boone, Denzel Washington

Coach Boone’s task of getting his players to care and love one another was nearly impossible. Jesus commanded believers to love one another in John 15. How can someone love those they hardly know and have no feelings toward? From the world’s perspective, this seems impossible. The Greek word used for love in this chapter is not fickle or heartfelt but rather the word that involves faithfulness, commitment, and an act of the will. It begins with a decision and doesn’t wait for inspiration. It is differentiated from the other kinds of love by its moral nature and strong character. It’s not a sappy or sentimental feeling. God loves because that is His nature and the expression of His being. Agape love is always shown by what it does. God’s love is displayed at the cross.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete love their teammates and coaches because God loved them first.

H.E.A.R.

As you read today’s chapter, journal using the H.E.A.R method:

H (Highlight) - What stands out to you? If something stands out to you, it’s likely God pulling you toward a certain portion of scripture.

E (Explain) - Describe in context the text. Ask questions like: Why was this written? To whom was it originally written? How does this fit with the verses before and after? Why did the Holy Spirit include this passage in the book?

A (Apply) - How do you take this verse beyond the page? Ask questions like: How can this help me? What does this mean today? What would the application of this verse look like in my life? What is God saying to me?

R (Respond) - This is where you will write a measurable response to the truth God revealed. Maybe it will be a call to action, something you will change in the coming week. Maybe it will be a prayer asking God to help you work this truth into your life. Whichever, make sure it is measurable so you can hold yourself accountable in your growth as a disciple.