Embracing a Culture of Love and Discipleship

 

Summary

### Summary

Good afternoon, everyone. Today, we gather to reflect on the importance of culture within our families and our church community. Culture, defined as a set of shared values, norms, and beliefs, shapes how we think, feel, and behave. Our church culture is deeply rooted in discipleship, as commanded in Matthew 28:19-20, where we are called to make disciples of all nations. Our mission is to honor God and create Christ-committed followers who will, in turn, make more Christ-committed followers. This vision extends to transforming lives, families, communities, and nations for God's glory.

Our core values—love God, love others, obey God's word and authorities, volunteerism, and family engagement—define who we are and guide us in fulfilling our mission. I shared a personal story about discussing these values with my family, encouraging you to do the same in your homes. As parents and leaders, it's crucial to instill these biblical values in our families, fostering a culture that aligns with God's teachings.

Today's focus is on the core value of loving God and loving others. We examined the parable of the Good Samaritan from Luke 10:25-37, where Jesus teaches us to show mercy and compassion to everyone, even those we might not naturally be inclined to help. The Samaritan's actions exemplify love in action—caring for the wounded man, covering his expenses, and ensuring his recovery. Jesus concludes by instructing us to "go and do the same," emphasizing that love is not just a feeling but an actionable commitment to others.

We also reflected on Matthew 22:36-38, where Jesus identifies the greatest commandment: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. This love for God should be the foundation of our lives, influencing how we interact with others. Our love for God must overflow into love for our neighbors, which includes everyone around us—family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers.

In John 13:35, Jesus says that the world will know we are His disciples by our love for one another. Our culture should be one of love, care, compassion, and discipleship. Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to empower us to love God more deeply and to extend that love to others, making a lasting impact on their lives.

### Key Takeaways

1. The Importance of Culture in Our Lives: Culture, defined as shared values, norms, and beliefs, shapes how we think, feel, and behave. In our church, our culture is rooted in discipleship, as commanded in Matthew 28:19-20. This culture helps us honor God and create Christ-committed followers who will transform lives and communities for God's glory. [38:19]

2. Core Values as a Guiding Principle: Our core values—love God, love others, obey God's word and authorities, volunteerism, and family engagement—define who we are and guide us in fulfilling our mission. These values should be instilled in our families, fostering a culture that aligns with God's teachings. [39:20]

3. Love in Action: The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) teaches us that love is not just a feeling but an actionable commitment to others. The Samaritan's actions exemplify love in action—caring for the wounded man, covering his expenses, and ensuring his recovery. Jesus instructs us to "go and do the same," emphasizing that love must be demonstrated through our actions. [43:25]

4. Loving God with All Our Heart, Soul, and Mind: In Matthew 22:36-38, Jesus identifies the greatest commandment: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. This love for God should be the foundation of our lives, influencing how we interact with others. Our love for God must overflow into love for our neighbors, which includes everyone around us. [44:33]

5. The World Will Know Us by Our Love: In John 13:35, Jesus says that the world will know we are His disciples by our love for one another. Our culture should be one of love, care, compassion, and discipleship. Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to empower us to love God more deeply and to extend that love to others, making a lasting impact on their lives. [50:50]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[38:19] - Defining Culture
[38:49] - Our Mission and Vision
[39:20] - Core Values Introduction
[39:48] - Family Culture Discussion
[40:15] - Refreshing Family Core Values
[40:45] - Applying Biblical Culture at Home
[41:05] - Love God, Love Others
[41:46] - The Parable of the Good Samaritan
[43:25] - Show Mercy in Action
[44:33] - The Greatest Commandment
[46:54] - Who is Your Neighbor?
[47:59] - Overflowing Love from God
[50:50] - The World Will Know Us by Our Love
[51:50] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Luke 10:25-37 - The Parable of the Good Samaritan
2. Matthew 22:36-38 - The Greatest Commandment
3. John 13:35 - The World Will Know Us by Our Love

#### Observation Questions
1. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), what actions did the Samaritan take to help the wounded man? [41:46]
2. According to Matthew 22:36-38, what is the greatest commandment, and how should it influence our lives? [44:33]
3. How does Jesus say the world will recognize His disciples in John 13:35? [50:50]
4. What are the core values mentioned in the sermon that define the church's mission and vision? [39:20]

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus chose a Samaritan as the hero in the parable of the Good Samaritan? What message was He trying to convey to His audience? [41:46]
2. How does loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:36-38) practically affect our daily interactions with others? [44:33]
3. In what ways can our love for one another serve as a testimony to the world about our faith in Jesus, as stated in John 13:35? [50:50]
4. How can the core values of loving God, loving others, obeying God's word, volunteerism, and family engagement be integrated into our family culture? [39:20]

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you had the opportunity to show mercy and compassion like the Good Samaritan. How did you respond, and what could you do differently next time? [41:46]
2. How can you actively demonstrate your love for God in your daily life? Identify one specific action you can take this week to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind. [44:33]
3. Think of someone in your life who might be difficult to love. What practical steps can you take to show them love and compassion, following the example of the Good Samaritan? [41:46]
4. Discuss with your family or small group how you can collectively embody the core values of your church. What are some practical ways to implement these values in your home or community? [39:20]
5. How can you ensure that your love for others is visible and impactful, as Jesus described in John 13:35? What specific actions can you take to make your love for others evident to those around you? [50:50]
6. Identify one person in your life who does not know Christ. How can you show them the love of Jesus through your actions and words this week? [50:50]
7. Reflect on the sermon’s emphasis on creating a culture of love, care, compassion, and discipleship. What changes can you make in your personal life to contribute to this culture within your church and community? [50:50]

This guide is designed to help your small group delve deeper into the sermon’s message and apply its teachings to your daily lives. May your discussions be fruitful and transformative.

Devotional

Day 1: The Role of Culture in Shaping Our Lives
Culture, defined as shared values, norms, and beliefs, profoundly influences how we think, feel, and behave. In our church, our culture is deeply rooted in discipleship, as commanded in Matthew 28:19-20. This culture helps us honor God and create Christ-committed followers who will transform lives and communities for God's glory. By embracing a culture of discipleship, we align ourselves with God's mission and vision for our lives, families, and communities. This culture is not just about attending church services but about living out our faith in every aspect of our lives, making a lasting impact on those around us.

Our church's mission is to honor God and create Christ-committed followers who will, in turn, make more Christ-committed followers. This vision extends to transforming lives, families, communities, and nations for God's glory. As we embrace this culture, we become agents of change, bringing God's love and truth to a world in need. Let us commit to fostering a culture of discipleship in our homes and communities, living out our faith in tangible ways that reflect God's love and grace. [38:19]

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."

Reflection: How can you intentionally foster a culture of discipleship in your home and community this week?


Day 2: Core Values as a Guiding Principle
Our core values—love God, love others, obey God's word and authorities, volunteerism, and family engagement—define who we are and guide us in fulfilling our mission. These values are not just abstract concepts but practical principles that should be instilled in our families, fostering a culture that aligns with God's teachings. By living out these values, we create an environment where faith can flourish, and lives can be transformed.

As parents and leaders, it's crucial to instill these biblical values in our families. Discussing these values with our loved ones helps to create a shared understanding and commitment to living out our faith. When we prioritize these core values, we set a foundation for a life that honors God and impacts others positively. Let us take the time to reflect on how we can better integrate these values into our daily lives and encourage our families to do the same. [39:20]

Colossians 3:16 (ESV): "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."

Reflection: What steps can you take to discuss and instill your core values with your family this week?


Day 3: Love in Action
The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) teaches us that love is not just a feeling but an actionable commitment to others. The Samaritan's actions exemplify love in action—caring for the wounded man, covering his expenses, and ensuring his recovery. Jesus instructs us to "go and do the same," emphasizing that love must be demonstrated through our actions. This parable challenges us to extend love and compassion to everyone, even those we might not naturally be inclined to help.

Love in action means going beyond our comfort zones to meet the needs of others. It requires us to be attentive to the suffering around us and to respond with mercy and kindness. By following the example of the Good Samaritan, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are hurting. Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to empower us to love others selflessly and to take practical steps to show that love in our daily interactions. [43:25]

1 John 3:18 (ESV): "Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth."

Reflection: Who in your life needs to experience love in action today, and how can you practically show them God's love?


Day 4: Loving God with All Our Heart, Soul, and Mind
In Matthew 22:36-38, Jesus identifies the greatest commandment: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. This love for God should be the foundation of our lives, influencing how we interact with others. Our love for God must overflow into love for our neighbors, which includes everyone around us—family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. When we prioritize our relationship with God, it transforms our perspective and actions, enabling us to love others more deeply and authentically.

Loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind means dedicating every aspect of our being to Him. It involves seeking His presence, studying His word, and aligning our desires with His will. As we grow in our love for God, we become more attuned to His heart for others, leading us to act with compassion and grace. Let us commit to deepening our love for God and allowing that love to shape our interactions with those around us. [44:33]

Deuteronomy 10:12 (ESV): "And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul."

Reflection: How can you intentionally deepen your love for God this week, and how might that impact your relationships with others?


Day 5: The World Will Know Us by Our Love
In John 13:35, Jesus says that the world will know we are His disciples by our love for one another. Our culture should be one of love, care, compassion, and discipleship. As followers of Christ, our love for one another serves as a powerful testimony to the world. When we genuinely care for and support each other, we reflect the love of Christ and draw others to Him. This love is not limited to our church community but extends to everyone we encounter.

Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to empower us to love God more deeply and to extend that love to others, making a lasting impact on their lives. By living out this love, we fulfill Jesus' command and become a beacon of hope and light in a world that desperately needs it. Let us strive to create a culture of love and discipleship that honors God and transforms lives. [50:50]

1 Peter 4:8 (ESV): "Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins."

Reflection: In what specific ways can you demonstrate Christ-like love to those around you this week, both within and outside your church community?

Quotes

### Quotes for outreach

1. "Our love is from God directed to his glory and honor which benefits the people around us. The message that Sunday it was taken from Luke chapter 10 verses 25 37 wherein Jesus shared this parable where we have a man robbed beaten and left to die on the road and then a priest came and passed by him and went on a different direction and then a levite came and did the same and then came a samaritan who came from a group of people hated by those listening to the story that Jesus is sharing but it was the samaritan who did what no one expected." [41:46] (40 seconds) ( | | )

2. "Show mercy. As we have learned, showing mercy is not just an inward feeling of sadness and grief that we show to people, but it's an action towards other people, an outward expression of compassion and care that is also costly. We must show mercy to everyone. I know it's not always easy. That's why we need to pray." [43:25] (34 seconds) ( | | )

3. "Our ministry and our love is an overflow of what God has showered us. It is what we have experienced from God. It is that overflowing presence of God, of God's love intimately growing with us that we can share our love for other people. So don't stop where you are. Ask the Holy Spirit to empower you so that you can share that love that you have from God to others." [47:59] (37 seconds) ( | | )

4. "God is commanding us to love others with a love that makes an impact in the lives of the people that we meet. Like the good Samaritan who stopped, who is willing to be disturbed, who is willing to entertain that interruption in his life to show compassion and care, to love people anywhere, anytime as he himself is experiencing that love. He is also giving away, sharing that love to other people." [47:59] (36 seconds) ( | | )

5. "Lastly, by this all men will know that you are my disciples. John 13.35 says, if you have love for one another. And the world will know that we are true Christians, true believers, true followers of Jesus Christ. By our love for God and for one another. For the people that we meet. For those people that we pass by. People that doesn't know Christ. Our culture must be a loving, caring, compassionate, discipling culture." [50:50] (38 seconds) ( | | )

### Quotes for members

1. "We share a common value of discipling people, discipling our neighbors. We have a discipleship culture anchored on God's word here in our church. We have a discipleship culture Matthew 28, 19-20 tells us to make disciples. And our mission reminds us to honor God and make Christ-committed followers who will make Christ-committed followers. That's our vision. That's our mission." [38:19] (25 seconds) ( | | )

2. "Our core values define who we are and how we do things in order to accomplish our mission and our vision. That's the mission that God gave us. And as a person, you all belong to a family, right? So the day after the service, the following day, I talked to my children through chat because some are studying somewhere else. So we have a group chat in our family and I want to share this personal space to everyone to encourage all of you that you can start talking about the culture that we are learning from God through the church and applying it in our home." [39:20] (38 seconds) ( | | )

3. "If you're a parent, if you're a mother, a father, and you're leading your children or leading your family members at home, I pray that as you learn this biblical culture from God's Word, I hope and I pray that you will also apply it in your lives so that you can all grow in Christ-likeness, in aligning, and in your lives and a source of encouragement to that bigger calling of God to us as disciples of Jesus Christ." [40:45] (25 seconds) ( | | )

4. "So the question, a good question to ask is, so who is your neighbor? Can you chat right now, who do you think your neighbors are? What do you think your neighbors are? Who are these people? I want to say that, you know, our neighbors are our loved ones, our family members, our relatives, our friends, our office mates. They can be the literal people around us, the house next door. They are our neighbors. Old friends. It's everybody. But the challenge is this, how are we loving others? How are we loving the people that are close to us?" [46:54] (44 seconds) ( | | )

5. "Let us pray that our love will not be about us but about God and leading those we love to God, not to us. Let us pray that this love will continue to be a motivation that is not selfless but is directed toward God's honor and glory. Let us pray. Lastly, by this all men will know that you are my disciples. John 13.35 says, if you have love for one another." [50:50] (99 seconds) ( | | )

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Transcript
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