76 14 Habits of Highly Effective Disciples
- Suggest that John has become known as the “Apostle of Love” for
his frequent emphasis on love in his writings as well as his likely
designation as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” (See John 13:23,
20:2, 21:7, 20)
Direct class members to find 1 John 4 in their Bible. Tell them
to read verses 7–12 and to look for whom John identified as the
source of love. After they finish reading, guide them to identify
how many times and how many different ways John points to God
as the Source of love. Utilize the Bible comments in this Te a c h i n g
Guide to help members understand that God is not the same thing
as love, but rather the Source of love. - Instruct members re-read verses 11–12. Ask, What does John say
ought to be the outcome of God’s love for believers? (Believers ought
to demonstrate his love by loving one another). Suggest that when
Christians act with love toward one another, unbelievers will take
notice of their behavior and be drawn to God. - Call on a class member to read aloud 1 John 4:13–16. Before he or
she begins to read, instruct the other members to listen for what
John says is the evidence of a true relationship with God. Ask
members to describe the nature of this evidence. Refer to the sec-
tion “Love Because of God” in the Study Guide to supplement this
discussion.
Encourage Application
- Ask, Why is there no fear in love? (1 John 4:18). What is the ultimate
fear? How can we overcome fear with confidence? - Read aloud 1 John 4:19–21. Ask members to identify the primary
way believers can demonstrate their love for God. Help everyone
understand that love for God must be lived out with love for others,
especially our brothers and sisters in Christ. Suggest that class
members make specific plans to do something to demonstrate their
love for another person in the church before next Sunday. - Read and discuss the “Developing the Habit” sidebar in the Study
Guide. Close with prayer.