SERMON DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 12/21/2025 1 JOHN 4:7-21

1. The sermon describes love as something that crosses borders rather than builds fences. Where does that idea most connect or challenge you?

Follow-up: What kinds of borders do you tend to build when you feel hurt, misunderstood, or threatened?

Action Step: Ask God this week to reveal one border you’ve built (emotional, relational, spiritual). Write it down. Pray over it daily.

2. In the Christmas story, God brings together people who would not normally belong together. Why do you think God chose such a diverse and uncomfortable group to welcome His Son?

Follow-up: Who are the people today that might make you uncomfortable to welcome, listen to, or learn from?

Action Step: Intentionally engage with someone this week who is different from you (culturally, politically, generationally, or spiritually) by listening without correcting or defending.

3. Jesus says that love, not knowledge, symbols, or church activity, is how the world will recognize His followers (John 13:34–35). Why do you think love is such a powerful witness?

Follow-up: Where do you think the Church (or Christians in general) has struggled to reflect Christlike love well?

Action Step: Practice one visible act of love this week. Something simple and tangible that points more to Jesus than to yourself.

4. The sermon acknowledges that we live in deeply divided times. Where do you personally feel the tension between “us” and “them” most strongly right now?

Follow-up: How does Jesus’ command to love enemies challenge the way you normally respond in those situations?

Action Step: Choose one person or group you’re tempted to label or dismiss. Pray for them by name each day this week.

5. The sermon asked: “Is there a border God is inviting you to cross?” Which of these feels closest to home for you right now: a border between you and God, or a border between you and someone else?

Follow-up: What fear might be keeping you from taking that first step?

Action Step: Take one small step this week (send a message, make a call, apologize, forgive, pray honestly, or show up) without waiting for the other side to move first.

6. The sermon reminds us that we don’t have to cross the whole distance, only take the first step. Why is that truth important when it comes to loving others like Jesus?

Follow-up: What would it look like for Christmas to become “real” through your obedience this season?

Action Step: Share one first step you’re committing to take this week. Pray for one another before leaving.