LOOKING FOR A CHURCH ( PART II )

Introduction:

A. Last Sunday morning we started a series of lessons by the title, "Looking For A Church."

B. Review briefly.

If I were looking for a church, I'd also look for a loving and caring church.

I. The loving and caring attitude that a church should have is exemplified by the story that Jesus told

about the good Samaritan. Luke 10: 25-37. Note several lessons.

A. We learn who OUR neighbor is.

1. The scribe, or expert in the law, asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"

2. Jesus answered, through the story He told, "Anyone who needs our help."

3. Explain attitude of Jews.

4. Share true good Samaritan story.

5. Would you like to be a part of a church who accepts and helps only select people, or a

church who accepts and helps all people regardless of their status in life?

B. We learn also that practical SERVICE must take precedence in religion. Luke 10: 30.

1. How did the priest, the religious leader of his day, respond to the man who was half dead?

v3.

2. What did the Levite, another religious leader, who when he came on the scene?

3. Wouldn't you like to be associated with a church who is loving and caring and live what

they teach?

II. Jesus has given us a NEW COMMAND to love. John 13:34-35.

A. A new command v34.

1. Command

2. New ".......... As I have loved you.

3. Two types of love

          a.  Phileo:  brotherly love, Philadelphia, fond of.

          b.  Agape:  unconditional love.

          c.  John 21:15-17.  Jesus asked Peter, "Do you truly agape me?"  Peter replied, " You know that

               I phileo you." Illustrate with husband and wife relationship.

          d.  John 13:34-35:  "A new command I give you: Agape one another.  As I have agaped you, so you

               must agape one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you agape one

               another."

A. How had Jesus loved them? He loved Matthew when the Jews despised him. James

and John in spite of their pride and temper. Peter after his denial. All the Apostles

after all forsook Him except John. Thomas after his doubt.

B. Love is the badge of discipleship. John 13:34-35. Illustrate.

Conclusion:

A. People aren't impressed with our acappella singing, teaching, or observing communion each

Sunday!

B. They will be impressed with our love and concern for one another and for them.

Invitation Extended