Pastor Cornelius reminded us that caring for others is a great way to build deep, lasting connections. He pointed to the ultimate example: God’s love for us, shown through the sacrificial gift of His Son. As God’s children, we are called to reflect that same love and compassion in our relationships. Because we have received abundant love and grace from God, we are equipped to extend that love to others. Pastor Cornelius also offered practical steps to care for the people, reminding us that love is expressed in actions. When we care for and love people we fulfill God's calling to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Main Scripture: 1 John 3:16-20, Luke 10:30-37 and Luke 6:32-36
Other Scripture mentioned: John 13:35 and Phil 2:3-4
Takeaways:
We all need connection. At some point in our lives we will need support and care from others
The church is a family. God has called us to love each other as a family
Love and care are fulfilled through our actions. We can't simply say we love and care for someone. Our actions must accompany our words
Jesus tells the religious expert to do as the Good Samaritan, show mercy. God is merciful and expects us to be merciful too.
Caring for people is a natural trait we receive from God. The Holy Spirit lives inside of us making us more like Jesus as we grow and spend time with him.
Ways to Care for people
Just be there
Only God can solve problems
We can provide support by just being present
We don't need to be perfect or have all the right answers
Pay attention to what is happening in people's lives
People share what's happening in their life, but we often miss it
Ask open ended questions to learn more about people
Paying close attention will help us care for people
Just Listen
Don't try to fix people
Listen to learn about people not how to solve their problems
Connect with people before trying to correct them
Help or provide a service
Take a meal if they are sick or send a card, call to check if you haven't seen them, visit if in the hospital
Builds connection and shows acts of love
God may prompt us to serve people that do not deserve it
Give without expecting to receive
When we care and serve others we are serving God
We can maintain connection even if we don't receive a thank you
We have love to give because we have received love from God
Discussion
What was one thing from the message that resonated with you?
What are your thoughts on we have received love from God and we can love others
Is it difficult to care for people that are ungrateful? Does it change your perspective knowing we serve God when we serve people?
Do you have someone God is calling you to serve?
Have you built connection with someone by caring for them?
The most important decision you will ever make!
If you’re ready to trust in Jesus for salvation and eternal life, we encourage you to process this decision with a strong believer and when you’re ready, say a simple prayer like this from your heart: Dear God, I acknowledge and admit I have sinned. I see my need for Jesus Christ. I believe in Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I believe I am forgiven and cleansed of my sin by His death. I also believe I have eternal life because of His resurrection from the dead. I repent, I turn away from my old ways and I choose to live my life to worship you and follow Jesus, Amen!
We would love to know if you decided to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Let us know here.
Pray Together
Jesus, thank you for demonstrating your love for us by giving your life that we may have eternal life. Lord, help us to care and have an interest in other people, not just our own needs. Give us a heart of compassion just as you have a heart of compassion. May people see you through our love for them. We are grateful that we can give and offer love because we have received love from you.
We hope you found this AFTER THE SERMON discussion helpful for your walk with Jesus. We pray you can find ways to apply it this week!
