Annual Theme – “God’s Love Seen In 2018” Series: God Loves People - One of the worst things to ever hear or say are the words "I hate you." And since Jesus is the One who God sent to show love to the world, how He handled haters is significant. Today we will explore and hopefully apply two important lessons. Hatred can flow in two directions: hatred towards you and hatred from you. Jesus shows us what to do about both. Get ready by turning to two passages: Matthew 5 and Luke 9.

JESUS LOVES HATERS Matthew 5:43-48; Luke 9:51-56

1. If Hatred Is Directed to You (Matthew 5:43-48) A. Respond with Love B. Represent the God of Love 2. If Hatred Is Developed in You (Luke 9:51-56) A. Your Words Must Be Rebuked B. Your Attitude Must Be Checked C. Your Prejudice Must Be Surrendered

LIFEGROUP QUESTIONS BEGIN IT (5 min) Time praising the Lord & pray that God leads the study. OPEN IT (10min) What are some examples of prejudice that you have seen? EXPLORE IT (60 min) Read Matthew 5:43-48 and Luke 9:51-56 as you review Sunday’s sermon outline together allowing for questions, comments and contributing thoughts.. 1.If our Holy God is able to exhibit grace and mercy to everyone, why is it difficult for us to be like Him? 2.How is it possible for us to love our enemies? 3.In what ways does a loving spirit demonstrate that we are God’s people? 4.How do you handle it when someone rejects you because of prejudice or for petty reasons? 5.In what ways do we get sidetracked by retaliation? 6.What do you want to remember the next time you feel a desire to retaliate or get even? APPLY IT (15 min) What are some specific areas (lessons learned) you want to remember about Sunday’s sermon?