FOCUS OF THE MONTH: UNDERSTANDING THE COMMANDMENTS

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When Jesus was asked which was the greatest commandment, He responded with two — giving us a lot to discuss and work on following as His disciples! For week one, ask the first question over an unhurried meal. Let the children think about it and then offer their own answers. The children should talk more than the parents. Throughout the week, offer the different reasons highlighted and let the children discuss them (Parents, read through the relevant Bible passages in advance.) Challenge the children to look up other verses addressing the question. Do the same for the following questions each week for the month.

QUESTIONS TO HELP YOUR FAMILY GROW

Week One:

Which is the greatest commandment?

Read: Matthew 22:35-40, Mark 12:28-44, Luke 10:25-28

• There are two — but they are inseparable, which is why Jesus gave them together.
• Love of God.
• Love of neighbor.

Week Two

How do we love God?

Read: John 14:15-23, 1 John 4:16 and 5:2-5

• Faith.
• Following Him in giving up of ourselves to Him.
• Prayer and communion with Him.
• Obedience.

Week Three:

How do we love our neighbor?

Read: Luke 10:25-37, John 15:13, 1 John 4:20-21, Matthew 7:12

• In action.
• Sharing the Gospel.
• Praying for them.
• Serving others.
• Helping those who are hurting.
• Being fair and considerate in our thoughts about and dealings with others.

Week Four:

Why did God give us these commandments?

Read: John 15:9-17, 1 Corinthians 13, 1 John 4:7-8

• To redeem a fallen world.
• To enable us to understand the Truth about His Nature, which is Love, and come to share in His eternal life and kingdom.
• To make life in this world better — love, rather than hatred, is the only way to properly solve any of the problems or evils that arise in our lives.