The Just Live by Faith Not by Bloody Knees 1 John 5:3 Dr. Grant Hodges For a) this is the love of God, that we b) keep His commandments; and c) His commandments are not burdensome. Discuss the argument of the sermon, the consistency of God’s viewpoint of burden placed on us by His commands. How does the Scripture view this burden? ( Galatians 6:1-5; Matthew 11:30) How did John Bunyan view the burden of saving a man (himself particularly)? Why did this turn his life with God into joyless doubt? Discuss why the actual work of granting a man eternal life must be done by God, not us. What does this leave us to do? I. God's Commands Are Not an Imposition verse 3 Discuss areas of God’s commands to us in which obedience to the command is easier than doing it our own way (ex. It was easier on me to give up lying to my Mom.): Some advice on doing things God’s way: 1. Put God first. 2. Study God’s word so you’ll be ready when a question arises in your own mind and you will know what to do. 3. Make decisions with God’s Word in mind. 4. Remember that God is merciful to Biblical decision makers! 5. Don’t ignore Scriptural warnings. (examples?) 6. Be especially careful about decision making when life is going smooth. Why? 7. Remember that your example will effect other people in their decision for or against Christ. Read Jeremiah 33:3 – how does this help us in obeying God’s commands? II. It's Easier to Carry Christ’s Burden Than to Dodge His Burden verse 3 For a) this is the love of God, that we b) keep His commandments; and c) His commandments are not burdensome. Why is penance a weak way to please God and maintain your relationship with Him? Why is Trust better? III. God Wants Our Love Not Our Bloody Knees Read II Corinthians 4:17. How does this fit our discussion? What does it make you think and feel about God?

Dr. Grant Hodges

The mission of Grace Church is to share the love of Jesus Christ through Worship, Discipleship, and Evangelism.