Northfield Baptist Church

LOVE

Week of December 20, 2020

In week four, we'll focus on the Christmas theme of love. In English, the word love can mean so many things. But understanding the biblical theme of love does not depend on picking one of the ways we use the word today. Instead, we go back to the New Testament to see how it describes this theme. And it turns out, when God sent Jesus to be born as a baby, that was an act of divine love.

Below is a video to watch, followed by a Bible reading and discussion questions. Then, if you are using an advent wreath, there is a time to light candles and pray. Finally, there are ideas for family adventures in week four.

WATCH

BIBLE DISCUSSION

Video Question:

What is one idea that stood out to you when you watched the video on love?

Read 1 John 4:9-10.

Compare these verses to John 3:16.

Question 1:

What do the verses in John and 1 John have to do with Christmas?

Question 2:

According to these verses, what are some of the blessings that God's love makes possible for us?

(NOTE: "Propitiation" is the satisfaction of God's wrath against our sin.)

Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

The video discussed developing an others-focused, self-giving love. Further, Jesus commanded that we should love each other as he loved us (Jn. 13:34-35).

Question:

After watching the video and reading 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, how might our relationships change if they were filled with biblical love?

"When unsure of what to say or do,

ask what love requires of you."

-Andy Stanley

Read Romans 5:8.

Question:

Christmas is an important part of the story of God's love for you. Have you received that love by trusting Him and calling on Him for salvation? (Click here for a short video to explain salvation more.)

Share your decision or ask a question here.>>

ADVENT WREATH

If you are using an advent wreath, take a moment before dinner to light all four candles and pray with your family.

Pray

Remember to include the biblical theme of love in your prayer. Thank God for His great love toward us and ask for His help to mirror that same love toward everyone in your life.

FAMILY ADVENTURE

Unfair Love
We're getting to the time when many of us will have some days off from school or work. That means even more unstructured time at home. Yay! This week, challenge everyone in the home to find at least one way, every day, to do something of practical service for someone without any expectation that they return the favor. The more anonymous, the better! You could make someone else's bed or do one of their chores when they're not looking. You could send (or leave) an anonymous encouragement note. You could take everyone else a treat before getting the one you wanted. You could shovel someone else's driveway. Yes, you could even "like" someone's social media post, even if you really don't like them very much. The list is endless if you try to look for ways to do it.
Attend the Christmas Eve Online Program at 4:00 or 6:00 p.m.
You are invited to join Northfield Baptist Church Online for our Christmas Eve Program! This live-hosted program can be viewed at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. We hope you will join us as we celebrate Jesus’ birth this Christmas season.

A children's gift bag has been created to provide the opportunity for your children to interact with the Online Christmas Eve Program. This bag is recommended for children ages 4-12 years of age includes an activity page and small gifts that will allow the children to participate as they watch the program.
Click here to join the program or request children's gift bags.>>