The Three Relationships of Life – Part Two – Our Relationship with One Another. (John 15: 12-17)

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Study Notes:

• Title: The Three Relationships of Life – Part Two – Our Relationship with One Another
• Scripture Focus: John 15:12-17

Main Points:

1. Introduction to Relationships:
   • The podcast explores three major relationships: our relationship with Jesus, our relationship with one another, and our relationship with the world.
   • This episode focuses on our relationship with one another, as discussed by Jesus in John 15:12-17.
2. Sacrificial Love:
   • Jesus commands us to love each other as He loved us, emphasizing sacrificial love.
   • The greatest love is shown by laying down one's life for friends, as Jesus did.
3. Jesus' Choice and Command:
   • Disciples did not choose Jesus; He chose them and appointed them to bear lasting fruit.
   • This relationship is not based on servitude but on friendship and partnership.

Seven Reasons God Chose Us.

1. Chosen for Joy:
   • Despite hardships, Christians are called to a life of deep-seated joy.
   • Joy stems from being redeemed sinners and should reflect in our lives.
2. Chosen for Love:
   • Christians are sent into the world to love one another.
   • Jesus exemplified the ultimate love by laying down His life for His friends.
3. Called to Be Friends:
   • Jesus elevates His disciples from servants to friends, indicating a deep, personal relationship.
   • Historical context: Servants of God (Moses, Joshua, David) were highly honored, yet Jesus offers an even closer relationship.
4. Called to Be Partners:
   • Disciples are not just followers but partners in Jesus' mission.
   • Jesus shares His plans and purposes, inviting disciples to collaborate in His work.
5. Chosen to Be Ambassadors:
   • Christians are chosen to represent Jesus in the world, actively engaging and serving.
   • The analogy of knights in King Arthur’s court highlights the call to service and mission.
6. Chosen to Bear Fruit:
   • Bearing fruit involves living a life that reflects the Holy Spirit and attracts others to Christianity.
   • Authentic Christian living is the most effective way to spread the faith.
7. Chosen as Members of God's Family:
   • Prayer is powerful when it aligns with God's will and is offered in Jesus' name.
   • True prayer is unselfish, seeking the good of all God's people and accepting God's answers.

Conclusion:

• Sacrificial Love as a Model:
  • Sacrificial love involves putting others first, even at personal cost.
  • Example of the Salvation Army members on the Empress of Ireland who gave their life jackets to others, showing ultimate love.
• Obedience and Friendship with Jesus:
  • To be Jesus' friends, we must obey His command to love others.
  • Friendship with Jesus involves sharing in His confidence and participating in His mission.
• Final Command:
  • Jesus begins and ends the passage with the command to love one another.
  • Our relationship with Jesus empowers and commands us to cultivate loving relationships with one another.

By understanding and living out these principles, Christians can deepen their relationship with God a

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