Jesus’ law of love

Big Ideas

• Mark 12:28-34
• The question of God’s love still being available is constant
• Jesus responds that there is a most important commandment
• If an LGBTQ friend comes out, do they feel safe telling you?
• There were NO early Christians who believed the Old Testament was doctrinally authoritative AND took them literally
• If we are loving God and loving people, then we are ok. God does not expect more from us. We can relax and be free from guilt and worry
• Start with this commandment - then from here, wrestle through the rest of the scriptures
• Asking us to be perfect is proof of grace. It’s obvious that we can’t be, so it’s clearly not what he’s asking.
• God never imposed a law on us that he doesn’t do himself. That means that THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE LOVES YOU AS HIMSELF!!!

Questions

• How often do you wonder if God still has nothing but love for you today?
• What do you think about the idea that there is a command that is more important than all the rest?
• Does Jesus really mean that love is everything?
• What do you think about the idea that the definition of love is as simple as it sounds? Just love? Not the re-defined versions we’ve heard from religious folks in the past?
• Would you feel more comfort or assurance approaching God if you believed that all he’s asking you to do is love him and love people? Less guilt that he’s disappointed in you or expecting more?
• Have you ever tried interpreting the Bible with the lens that, whatever verse you’re reading, it HAS to mean “Love God, and love people”?
• How would that change how you approach reading the Bible?