Down the rabbit hole we go!  We finally found a topic that makes Pastor A.J. uncomfortable! What if Jesus’ last commandment to the disciples is not what it seems? What does that mean for us? Is there a Johannine "messianic secret commandment" that we missed? Does it mean anything to us a couple thousand years later? Join Pastor A.J. and Brother Ryan as we venture down the rabbit hole where things may not be what they seem, but maybe we still come out beloved and renewed on the other side.  This episode talks about John 15:9-17 for Sunday, May 5th, 2024.

Discussion Questions:

1. “I give you a new commandment that you love one another” or “I give you a new commandment in order that you love one another.”  Do you think this translation difference changes the meaning?

2. If it does change the meaning, what does that mean to you?

3. What does it mean to love as Jesus asks?

4. What does this commandment mean in light of Jesus fulfilling God’s commandments on our behalf?

5. How are we to live knowing that we cannot be perfect and that God will make up the difference no matter what?

6. What is the good news?

Other notes:

• Greek text notes referenced by the Rev. D. Mark Davis: https://leftbehindandlovingit.blogspot.com/2015/05/in-order-that-you-love.html


• Learn more about the Lutheran Franciscans at https://www.lutheranfranciscans.org/