Small Group Bible Study

Life with the Spirit
 - Week 
4

Wanted: Love

1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Discussion Guide
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Please take advantage of our 1st Corinthians 12-14 Tool Kit with additional resources for further learning.



Discussion Questions

Before discussing in Groups, DNAs, mentorship and other gospel conversations around First Corinthians, consider the three different sources of engaging questions described at the bottom of this page. This will help lead to inspiring conversation and discussion instead of simple ‘yes’ and ‘no’ answers.

  • How does love unite the many gifts of the Holy Spirit according to Paul? How have you seen love activated for the sake of unity in the church? 
  • You may or may not know that there are several kinds of “love” mentioned in the New Testament and the Greek language (the original language of the NT). The “love” mentioned in this chapter is exclusively the word “agape,” which most often describes God’s kind of love - loyal, sacrificial, unconditional, enduring. We can also express this kind of love and are commanded to do so. Paul both describes and employs “agape” love in this beautiful passage. How would you wrap up his argument about love in one sentence? 
  • Since “God is love” according to 1 John 4:16, this passage describes God’s character in a real sense. What do you see about God’s character that is surprising to you? What is reassuring? 
  • There are many perspectives in our world that would leave God completely out of what Paul is saying about love. What is the difference between “God is love” and “love is God”?
  • In group discussion, identify three ways in which expressed love is seen well in your church community and experience, and three ways in which in can significantly improve. 

Discussion Format Suggestions

First, consider some simple, regular, thought-provoking opening questions to get the group discussions started. Try these on for fit: 

  • So, as we begin, where and How did you sense God’s Presence this week?
  • What is the state of the key relationships in your life right now? 
  • What were your biggest challenges? Biggest blessings? 
  • What are you most grateful for right now? 

Second, you can continue the discussion by honing in on the specific passage of First Corinthians that we’ve just studied on Sunday, or that you just read and studied together. You can engage some or all of the questions organized above for each of the passages. It’s always a good idea to read the particular passage again in the group discussion. 

Thirdly, please feel free to add your own questions as a result of your study and prayer through First Corinthians. You are the leader. Lead. Shepherd your people closer to Jesus.