Living the Word Challenge

Key Scripture

Luke 23:34 "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do."

The Central Truth

"If we are to love like Christ, we must first learn to forgive like Christ."

What Did We Learn?

1. How did Christ love us? Read Romans 5:8 and John 13:34.
Write three ways Christ demonstrated His love.
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2. What were the first words Jesus spoke from the cross? Read Luke 23:34.
Why do you think Jesus chose these words first?
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3. What was the first lesson Jesus taught from the cross?

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4. What new commandment did Jesus give His disciples? Read John 13:34–35.
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5. According to Jesus, how will the world know we are His disciples?

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6. What does 1 Corinthians 13 teach about serving God without love?

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7. According to Matthew 25, how is genuine love demonstrated?

Write several examples.
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8. What was the lesson of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21–35?

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9. Why did Jesus explain only one part of the Model Prayer after teaching it?

Read Matthew 6:14–15.
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10. What are we commanded to do when others wrong us?

Read Romans 12:17–21 and 1 Peter 3:9.
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Personal Reflection

Is there someone I need to forgive?

Have I asked God to forgive me as I forgive others?

Is my life demonstrating Christ's love to those around me?

Living the Word This Week

Each morning this week, pray the Lord's Prayer slowly. When you reach the words, 'Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors,' pause and ask the Lord, 'Is there anyone I have not forgiven?' Is there someone I need to contact? 

Then, choose to forgive that person just as Christ has forgiven you.

Family Discussion

• What impressed you most about Christ's first words from the cross?

• Why is forgiveness so central to the Christian life?

• How does remembering the cross help us forgive others?

• Is there a relationship in our family that needs healing?

• What practical act of Christlike love can we do together this week?

Memory Statement

"If we are to love like Christ, we must first learn to forgive like Christ."

Luke 23:34
John 13:34–35
Matthew 6:14–15

This Week's Prayer

Father, thank You for loving me while I was still a sinner. Teach me to forgive as Christ forgave me. Remove every root of bitterness from my heart. Help me demonstrate Your love through my words, my actions, and my relationships. Amen.