Introduction // 5 minutes
Who is your celebrity look a like?
Leader Note: Keep this light and engaging. If you someone can’t think of one for themselves ask others in the group to offer suggestions in a fun lighthearted manner.
Observation // 10 minutes
Read Ephesians 5:1-2
What does it look like to follow God’s example?
Leader Note: We have a heavenly model when it comes to relationships, be it parenting or any other relationship. This passage tells us to watch what God does, learn from it and then imitate what we see.
Sample answers may include
- Involves all of who we are (v.1)
- It’s relational; we do what we see him do as our father (v.1)
- Life filled with love, not a one time thing but ongoing (v.1)
- To be filled with love (v.2)
- Puts love into action through selfless, sacrificial living (v.2)
- Living in a way that pleased God, worshipful living (v.2)
Understanding // 10 minutes
What are some things you’ve learned from your family growing up that you are now, or hope to incorporate with your family?
What are some things you hope will be different?
Leader Note: This question may be difficult for your group to answer. Handle this section with care and make time to pray into areas of brokenness and pain at the end of your discussion.
Application // 15 minutes
Where are you following Christ’s example of love in your relationships?
Where aren’t you and what steps can you take to make a change?
Live It Out // 5 minutes
What if we lived out Christ’ example in our relationships? What would the impact be?
Prayer: Spend time thanking God for the example of perfect, self giving love seen in Christ. Pray for healing where other models of love have caused pain or shame. Pray for God’s Holy Spirit to enable us to understanding more fully Christ’s love for us that we may be able to express it in all of our relationships.