Three Simple Rules: Stay in Love With God

Sermon preached on 2019-09-29 by Rev. Sarah Harrison-McQueen. Worship series, "Three Simple Rules." Sermon, "Stay in Love with God." John 15:1-11.

Jesus makes clear in this passage that obedience to God is not simply a matter of adhering to rules; rather, it’s an intimate relationship with the Holy One who created us. We abide in Jesus’ love as we keep his commandments; we keep his commandments as we abide in his love. And the more we “get” this, the more complete is his joy in us.

• How do you think about the relationship between following Jesus’ commandments and abiding in his love? Do you sometimes feel as if you have to do one or the other?
• Can you think of a time when you were especially aware of the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you followed God’s commandments?
• If you do not currently have a consistent personal spiritual practice that supports “staying in love with God” take time to reflect on beginning one.
• If you already have a consistent practice, reflect on what works and what doesn’t. Challenge yourself to change a component to make it new again.

Prayer: Christ, you are the true vine and we are the branches. By your Spirit, produce the fruit of love, joy, peace, and patience in us for others to taste and enjoy. Keep us from hanging on to love for ourselves. Prune all selfishness from us and fill us with your love. Amen.

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