It’s not unusual in English speaking cultures to hear people use the word “love” rather loosely. Someone might say, “I love this shirt” and then a moment later say, “I love my wife.” Maybe in your native language there are similar occurrences, but can I really love a shirt and my wife the same way? Over time, love begins to lose meaning. Do we really understand what real love is? What does it take to really love somebody? What does it mean to give yourself to someone else? God created us a certain way to experience all that love was really meant to be. We are going to explore these topics this week as we watch the NOOMA film Flame. Below you will find some discussion questions and personal reflection questions along with scripture. Take some time to think about these questions and be ready to share.
Discussion:
- Why do you think that love is so complex?
- Do you think the word “love” loses its meaning when we use it for so many things? Does it affect our understanding of what real love is?
- What does it mean to give all of yourself to another person?
- After watching the video, we see that there are three variations of the Hebrew word “love.” Does it take all three of these working together for a relationship to be successful? Why or why not?
- How has your understanding of love changed when we consider God’s way?
Personal Reflection:
Read these selected passages to see examples of the various uses of the Hebrew word love (raya, ahava, & dod). Raya – Song of Songs 4:7; ahava – Song of Songs 8:7; dod – Song of Songs 1:2
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul gives some practical examples of love. Read 1 Corinthians 13: 1-13
It’s important to be at the discussion this week to gain a better understanding behind the biblical concept of love as we unfold these ancient Hebrew words. After doing that consider:
- If you are married: What areas do I need to be working on to make my marriage look more like the way God intends it to be? Discuss these with your spouse. How can you be praying for your spouse? In what ways can God be working in him/her?
- If you are currently in a relationship, but not yet married: When it comes to love and the way God created relationships to work, how does your current relationship align? Is there potential for all three areas of love to burn together as one at some point?
- If you are not currently in a relationship: Think about the video and the discussion, are you attracted to someone who is willing to demonstrate the qualities of love? What do you need to change about your understanding of love?
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