Relationships – Part VIII

Opening question: How do you become friends with someone, and what are some things we can do to keep the friendship going?

According to the following Bible verses, what do people have to understand before they can become friends with God?

John 14:6
6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

1 Timothy 2:5
5 There is only one God. And there is only one go-between for God and human beings. He is the man Christ Jesus.

Read the following words of Jesus from John 15:9-16

9 Just as the Father has loved me, I have loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love. In the same way, I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. 11 have told you this so that my joy will be in you. I also want your joy to be complete. 12 Here is my command. Love each other, just as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than the one who gives his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I do not call you servants anymore. Servants do not know their master's business. Instead, I have called you friends. I have told you everything I learned from my Father. 16 You did not choose me. Instead, I chose you. I appointed you to go and bear fruit -- fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you anything you ask for in my name.

Discussion questions:
1. What are some of your observations as you re-read these verses?
2. What are some things Jesus says about friendship?
3. What does verse 14 mean to you?
4. What do you think would be some of the advantages of being friends with God?
5. So, how can we start a friendship with God, and keep it going?