Mother’s Day
Happy Mother’s Day! This week we have a dual focus: Mother’s Day and an Introduction to 1 John. While I could extol the many virtues of a mother, we’ll focus on the profound influence a mother has in the disciple-making of her children and the next generation. John’s focus, likewise, is on building resilient disciples in the midst of a very challenging time and culture. I think we can see the overlap!
The Personfication of Gentleness - Cathedrale D’Amiens, France (Ca. 1230)
In the incredible stonework of the Cathedrale D’Amien's in France there is a small Quatrefoil depicting the “Personfication of Gentleness”— a woman sitting on a stool, holding a shield upon which is the image of a lamb. What a depiction of the strength and peace which both in equal measure fill out the concept of gentleness. How well does the role of mother embody this ideal of gentleness: the bravery and strength required to use a shield without a weapon in defence of the defenceless.
Anchor Texts:
1 John 1:1-4 NIV - The Incarnation of the Word of Life - Bible Gateway
Questions to Ponder:
We need _________________ not internet “influencers.” What are some of the differences between these two types of people?
True discipleship is not a lesson or class, it is a ___________________. What ways can you ensure your life overlaps with other more mature Christians? Are you practicing these things? Can you take fuller advantage of the disciplers God has put in your life today or this week?
What do you think John is talking about when he says in v. 1 “that which was from the beginning… what we have heard, seen, perceived, and touched…” What is “it”? (Hint - the answer isn’t Jesus.)
What do we learn about Fellowship from these four verses?
Why do we need to keep in fellowship with those who preach the original gospel of the Apostles?
Do we need to have fellowship with the apostles (as per verse 3) so that we can have fellowship with God? Does this introduce an “intermediary” between us and Jesus? How do you understand this verse?
Answers: 1. Disciple-makers, 2. shared life
The Theme in Song:
This song has brought so much encouragement to my wife Alli and I in the past, and although I’m sure I’ve posted it, and maybe even sung it in church years ago, it’s worth re-posting again this year. This song is a blessing sung over every mother and father of any age and stage.