The Conduct of Kings, Part two

Read: We are currently learning about our position as “rulers” in the world, under God. In Genesis 1 God placed man on the earth and told him to “rule” over it, and take care of it. While this is a tremendous privilege, it is more importantly a responsibility. Today we are going to discuss and pray for several areas of responsibility we all have in our lives:

Read: Luke 10:25-36 “The Good Samaritan”

1. What does this parable teach us about our responsibility to our fellow man, and our ability to influence, comfort and help others?
2. In vs 31-21 it says of the priest and the Levite, that they “passed by on the other side” and did not help the injured man. In what ways do you think we “by pass by on the other side” and avoid helping others?
3. In vs 34 the Samaritan, in contrast, allowed himself to be inconvenienced and helped the injured man. Can you pin point several real life areas where an inconvenience to you, might bring great blessing into someone else’s life?
4. What would be the possible knock-on effect, if everyone across a large community, cared for each other fully and uncompromisingly? Imagine and describe it together.
5. In vs 36 Jesus asks “which of these men was a neighbour to this man?” in the light of the command to “love your neighbour as yourself”. Who do you think is YOUR neighbour?

Read Luke 10:25-28 once again.

1. What do you think it means to love God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind?
2. What does it mean to “love your neighbour AS YOURSELF”? What would life be like if we actually did this for each other?
3. Do you think it is possible to “love God” without actually inconveniencing yourself and reaching out to others to help when you can? If not, why not?

Read Acts 4: 32-35 verse by verse. Pause after each verse and discuss what church might look like today, in New Life, if we behaved in this way.

End by praying for your “neighbours” (whoever your discussion has shown them to be!).