One Army - In Love

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THE {BOOK }

IN LOVE

AN INTERNATIONAL TEACHING RESOURCE

{YOUTH BOOK } IN LOVE

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IN LOVE

life ’ s supreme qualit y

THE LOVE OF GOD one rmy

one rmy The love of God gives life to the world. It is the source of all that is good. In his life and death Jesus gave it full expression.

His sacrifice is evidence of its complete self-giving. His resurrection demonstrated its almighty power. It is a power in which Paul had full confidence. Having asked the question, ‘Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?’ (Romans 8:35), he gave an uncompromising answer within an eternal perspective:

O boundless salvation! deep ocean of love, O fullness of mercy, Christ brought from above, The whole world redeeming, so rich and so free, Now flowing for all men, come, roll over me!1 LOVE! God’s love! How do you describe the indescribable? What words can we use to capture the wonder of it, its extent, its cost in self-giving – the love that redeemed the world and brought us ‘boundless salvation’?

William Booth called it a deep ocean of love.

His passion and excitement flow through the words of what Salvationists worldwide now refer to as ‘The Founder’s Song’.

The apostle Paul was also overwhelmed by the magnitude of God’s love and the New Testament benefits from his determination to emphasise its place at the heart of everything. In his Letter to the Ephesians he prays that they will be ‘rooted and established in love’ (3:17). Love is the foundation on which every life is meant to be built. It gives security and strength for all circumstances and eventualities. Its presence in the face of trials and tragedy brings depth of support and comfort that cannot be found elsewhere.

But love is a word often used loosely and it can refer to all kinds of things – from

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‘loving’ to sing or drink fruit juice, to describing acts of self-gratification. Paul, aware of the casual way in which we can refer to, express, or understand love continues with his prayer for the Ephesians, and asks that they might ‘grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ’ (v 18). The extent and magnificence of God’s love will fail to be understood without depth of thinking, taking time to reflect on its power – and, crucially, by receiving it. Paul wants us all ‘to know this love that surpasses knowledge’ (v 19) – to know it, not merely hear or read about it.

‘I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord’ (v 38, 39)2.

As Paul says, it is a love that surpasses knowledge. It is ours to enjoy.

In Discussion 1. Picture a world without love. What would it look like?

Romans 1:29-31; Psalm 53:2, 3; Psalm 94:4-7; Mark 7:21-23 2. Discuss the variety of ways in which the word ‘love’ may be used in your culture. In what way is the love of God different?

Psalm 103:11-14; Joel 2:13; Matthew 5:43-45; 1 John 4:16-18 3. Why do you think the song ‘O Boundless Salvation’ has won the hearts of Salvationists everywhere? What is its appeal?

Ephesians 3:14-19; Isaiah 12:2-4; Habakkuk 2:14; 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2; Hebrews 4:16; Titus 3:4-6 4. What makes love ‘stronger than death’ and ‘more powerful than evil’?

Romans 8:38, 39; 2 Timothy 1:10; Revelation 21:1-4; 1 Corinthians 13:8, 13

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In Prayer Take time to consider ‘how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ’.

There is unrivalled strength and power in God’s love. It is stronger than death, more powerful than evil and – like God – is eternal. It lives on. It is indestructible, because God is love (1 John 4:8, 16). It is unwise to fight it and foolish to ignore it, but when embraced it is transforming in every good way. the book

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THE COST OF LOVE one rmy

one rmy has been confirmed by medical research and statistics. Today, hundreds of thousands of older Salvationists are grateful for the teaching received in their youth that guided them into a healthy lifestyle.

THERE are different kinds of love. Among them are affection, friendship, romantic love and the divine love itself3. There are many ways in which love can be shown and no shortage of opportunities in a needy world.

Whatever form love takes, it always involves people caring for others.

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William Booth’s challenge to ‘go for souls and go for the worst’4 is an inspiring call to service, but putting it into practice – with love – can be costly beyond what many are prepared to give. In the words of a wellknown song, Salvationists are pledged to ‘love the unloved’. This can be easier to sing than to put into practice, and most would confess to not succeeding as often or as well as they might hope. The unloved can also be unlovely, ungrateful and uncooperative.

Only the divine love within can give the resources to love as he loves us.

Ways in which the Army puts its words into action include becoming fully involved in the lives of homeless people, drug addicts, those addicted to alcohol or to gambling, prisoners of all kinds and those who, having caused great distress, want a fresh start. Ministry to victims of crime, abuse and violence goes alongside ministry to help restore the offenders. Love, guided by wisdom, finds ways of ministering to all.

In his first epistle, John warns against avoiding to help those in need. Christians are not immune from ‘passing by’ on the other side of the road or not noticing when help is required. John writes: ‘If anyone … sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?’ (1 John 3:17). He continues: ‘Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth’ (v 18).

An important aspect of love in action is helping others avoid making costly mistakes.

Prevention is better than cure, so the Army’s care for those in trouble is matched by its teaching and guidelines for living. These include an emphasis on abstention (from non-medical drugs) by its soldiers. In recent years the Army’s long-standing assertion that tobacco and alcohol are the cause of needless ill-health, misery and early death

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Jesus always taught his disciples that love is costly. He emphasised it within the context of discipleship (Luke 9:23-25 and 57-62).

More significantly, he showed it. Followers of Jesus are called to express his love to others with whatever support they are able to give. When John wrote of Jesus’ sacrificial love to us, he reminded us that ‘since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another’ (1 John 4:9-11).

If The Salvation Army is to thrive, grow, develop and make the good impact God intends, it must be prepared to keep paying the price of love. We cannot avoid the obligations of giving, adapting, embracing and living out love’s demands. Without genuine commitment to love, we cannot become what God wants us to be – either as individuals or as his Army. By its very nature love is selfless, dedicated, thinking and acting on behalf of others. Love is not worthy of the name unless it costs something. As with God’s grace, love is not cheap.

In Discussion 1. Consider how easy it might be for Salvationists to leave ‘loving the unloved’ to the Army (the organisation), forgetting that loving is an individual, daily responsibility.

1 John 3:17; Romans 12:9-13 2. How might we arrange our lives so as to avoid noticing those who most need our love, including ‘the unlovely, ungrateful or uncooperative’?

Luke 10:25-37; Proverbs 24:12 3. Consider how the Army’s principles of abstinence and its emphasis on prevention of ill-health are an expression of love.

Ephesians 5:18; 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7; Matthew 7:9-12 4. ‘Love is not worthy of the name unless it costs us something.’ Discuss.

John 15:12, 13; Matthew 5:46-48; Luke 9:23-25, 57-62

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In Prayer Ask God to show you what qualities give true meaning and depth to love.

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They are not optional extras – and nor is faithfulness.

VIEWS and approaches to love and marriage vary the world over. Not only are there cultural and religious differences in understanding, but also people themselves have widely differing attitudes. Not surprisingly, the universal Church has challenges in deciding which cultural and legal traditions are appropriate for Christian marriage and which are not.

The first pages of the Bible introduce the concept of ‘man’ and ‘wife’ as an integral part of the creation order (Genesis 2:24).

Male and female are seen to be God’s creation (1:27). Each person is an individual, made in God’s image, for relationship with him. They are also made for relationship with one another and when they become man and wife they also become ‘one flesh’ (2:24). The relationship is sacred – God ordained (1:28).

Throughout the ages disputes, debates and discussions have taken place about the roles each should play and what status each has with the other – both within and without marriage. In his commentary, Matthew Henry makes some observations about the Genesis account of woman being made from the rib of the man (2:21-23). He suggests that woman was ‘not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved’.

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in LOVE LOVE – MAN AND WOMAN

He paints an idyllic picture of love, care and mutual respect. Surely this is what God intended.

The realities of life show other pictures.

Among issues that are fiercely debated are divorce, remarriage, bigamy, polygamy, same-sex relationships and cohabitation – rather than marriage – as the norm in many countries. Other issues are too numerous even to identify, but they include scenes where women are supressed by men, where husbands beating their wives is regarded as ‘culturally acceptable’, where marriages are forced upon unwilling partners and where women – as in Bible times – are still regarded as the property of the man.

Whether or not Christians live in a culture where the wider family is involved more directly in an arranged marriage, or in a culture where ‘falling in love’ is seen as the norm, love, care and mutual respect should always be essential aspects of any union.

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Deceit and mistrust harm any relationship, as does betrayal. They diminish the perpetrator and damage the one who is wronged. Putting your own interests first and dominating what should be a partnership – whether physically, psychologically or emotionally – is another way of being unfaithful to the ‘uniting’ vows made at the wedding. As with all relationships, fidelity, integrity and honesty are essential to everyone’s well-being.

In case anyone was in any doubt about the mutual value of men and women – whether married or single – the apostle Paul left clear, direct teaching: ’There is neither … male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus’ (Galatians 3:28). We belong to each other. We belong to Christ. We are to love, support and enhance each other as people loved fully and equally by him.

We hear Christ’s command – to love one another as he has loved us (John 13:34).

In Discussion 1. Read again Matthew Henry’s comment on Genesis 2:21-23 and discuss if this is how your culture sees the relationship between men and women.

Genesis 2:21-23 2. What makes any relationship sacred?

Genesis 1:27, 28; 1 Corinthians 3:16, 17 3. What is ‘faithfulness’?5 Why is it essential?

Psalm 85:10, 11; Psalm 117; Jeremiah 9:1-6; 1 Kings 2:4; Hebrews 8:9 4. What changes need to be made in attitudes if we are to show that men and women are truly ‘all one in Christ’?

Galatians 3:28

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In Prayer Pray (whatever your culture or situation) that God will help men and women truly support one another and understand more fully what it means to be ‘one in Christ’.

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LOVE – DAILY LIVING one

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in situations where we are able to make an impact – such as world environment issues – reveals that concern for ourselves is more important to us than love for others. And, of course, the giving of our own money to empower God’s work on earth is a vital expression of genuine love for others. These challenges are always with us.

THE command of Jesus to love one another as he loves us6 is not only for special occasions. It is for daily living. Ideally, love for one another should become our natural expression in all areas of life. This need not always include affection, a warm kind of emotion often experienced within families – such as a grandparent’s affection for a grandchild – and it may not necessarily include ‘liking’ the other person. For reasons that are not always apparent, some people find it difficult to ‘get on’ with other specific people. It may be that interests or priorities differ, or that temperaments seem to clash, with reasons for lack of mutual affection remaining a mystery. Whatever the case, we are meant to love, giving practical expression to the welfare of others.

Love in the ‘everyday’ takes many forms.

It is shown by courtesy, good manners and respect. It comes as thoughtfulness for others and by giving timely assistance – from cooking someone’s dinner to giving away your shoes to a needy person.

It finds meaning when it rejects the ‘it’s nothing to do with me’ attitude that keeps us at a distance from situations requiring some effort. Love responds not out of annoyance or guilt, or merely from a sense of obligation. It responds because it understands we are part of each other. We

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belong to one another, even though the reverse may seem the case at times.

Life is not meant to be a competition where the cleverest, most talented and richest are the winners. We are not intended to make personal success our aim, or even place our own happiness as our first priority.

Those who seek or find power should be among the most accountable. Their privileges should not come before their responsibilities. It is the same for us all – in the ‘everyday’. Yet our conduct – even in the small things – frequently tells a different story.

Love also has its distortions or complications – an overbearing mother, a dominating father, unrequited love, or a friend whose need to be needed mars every aspect of what could otherwise have been a mutually beneficial relationship. Daily living can be demanding, with no simple solutions.

Situations that demand much heartsearching – such as decisions about abortion, divorce, regret, punishment, forgiveness, sharing of wealth and responsibility within families – are best resolved or faced within the context of mutual, loving support. It isn’t always available when needed. The strength or wisdom to know how to respond can also be elusive.

None of us is exempt from the complexities of life. We all have our part to play. Our contribution of love will always be needed.

In Discussion 1. What are the implications of loving others as Christ loves us?

John 13:34, 35; 2 John 6 2. How might our daily choices and priorities show that we are more concerned about our own comforts than loving others?

Proverbs 20:14; Proverbs 22:22; Proverbs 23:4 3. What does my attitude to giving – money, time and skills – to the Lord’s work say about my love for him? How might I improve this?

Luke 21:1-4; Matthew 6:2-4; Acts 5:1-6; Malachi 3:10 4. How might we bring the love of God to situations where others’ lives have become complicated, sometimes through their own choices or decisions?

Galatians 6:1, 2; 1 Peter 3:8, 9; John 8:2-11

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In Prayer Take time to consider the depth of the love of Christ to us – ways in which it shows itself – and pray that the Lord will give us grace to love one another as he loves us.

The ways we spend and make our money are not exempt from the rule of love. To make an unnecessarily high profit and impoverish others is not in harmony with Christian values. Buying inexpensive goods made in sweatshops, where people slavishly work long hours for derisory wages, merely prolongs injustice. Being silent or inactive the book

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THE SUPREMACY OF LOVE one rmy

one rmy of actions without love are as ‘nothing’. The ability to prophesy, knowing mysteries, having faith that moves mountains and ‘all knowledge’ – even dying as a martyr – are nothing without love. Elsewhere Paul says that knowledge ‘puffs up’ whereas love ‘builds up’ (1 Corinthians 8:1). We need to hear and understand him.

in LOVE THE SUPREMACY OF LOVE

THE command to love is not new. In his first epistle, John says love is the message ‘you have heard from the beginning’ (1 John 3:11). It has always been with us. It is the rock on which everything else is built – a constant and ongoing requirement. It is the supreme expression of Christian faith (Galatians 5:6).

It was there when the commands of God were first recorded. The Ten Commandments instructed the Israelites to worship God (Deuteronomy 5:7-9), and obedience was a natural outcome of this, but what Jesus described as the ‘greatest’ commandment spoke of ‘loving’ God (Mark 12:29, 30). This is a different concept altogether. It puts our relationship with the Almighty on a different and more intimate level. This is personal and God wanted us to be aware of it from the start (Deuteronomy 6:5).

When questioned by a teacher of the law about the greatest commandment, Jesus added – ‘The second is this: “Love your neighbour as yourself ”’ (Mark 12:31). As we noted in the Introduction to this series, the Army’s long-standing aim to serve with ‘heart to God, hand to man’ is a powerful affirmation of its intention to centre its

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ministry where Jesus said it should be.

Anything other than this is inadequate and would undermine the Army’s reason for existence. There are numerous valid and praiseworthy features of the Christian life.

They are exemplified in the character and actions of Christians everywhere – but without love they lose their value.

Having written of the various gifts God gives us to use in his service, the apostle Paul then speaks of a ‘most excellent way’ (1 Corinthians 12:31). It is the way of love. Chapter 13 of his first epistle to the Corinthians – containing possibly the most highly-acclaimed verses on love ever produced – shows that love is simply indispensable. No substitute, however worthy, can replace it. The world couldn’t continue without it. It would become a chaotic, tragic mess. As he unfolded his message, Paul explained that even the best

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Continuing in the 13th chapter (v 4-7), he lists the richly effective qualities of love – love is patient, kind, and doesn’t envy or boast. It isn’t proud, rude, self-seeking, or easily angered. It doesn’t keep any record of wrongs or find delight when bad things happen to others. Instead, love rejoices in

the truth; it protects, keeps hoping and persevering. Then, looking beyond our weaknesses, Paul affirms that ‘love never fails’ (v 8). Love has eternal quality. Like faith and hope, it lasts for ever.

Eventually – in the fullness of time – the abilities, gifts and achievements of our life will be put into eternal perspective. They will be measured by love when we stand in the presence of the One who is Love. Only then will we understand the depth of love that flows from God to us. Only then will we understand fully the supremacy of love.

In Discussion 1. Identify the difference between ‘worshipping’ God and ‘loving’ God. How can the two commands come happily together in our daily living?

Deuteronomy 6:13 with Matthew 4:10, and Deuteronomy 6:5 with Mark 12:28-31 2. In what ways does the Army’s long-standing slogan ‘heart to God, hand to mankind’ reflect the two greatest commandments?7 Mark 12:29-31 3. Read 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 and see how your life compares with a life of love.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 4. Consider each life – abilities, gifts, achievements and actions – being measured finally by the law of love.

Matthew 7:2; Matthew 25:31-46

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In Prayer Consider that, more than anything else, God wants our love. Then confirm your love for him – heart, mind, strength and soul.

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australia

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geoff and kalie webb, SALVATION ARMY OFFICERs, WRITE about Their HOME COUNTRY Australia is an easy-going, affluent country. Some key historical events have been important for defining Australian attitudes. The Eureka Rebellion was an act of civil disobedience concerning the injustices of gold-mining licences. The First World War landing at Gallipoli was Australia’s first participation as a nation in a war – and it was a significant defeat. These two events have prompted a suspicion (and often questioning) of authority, and sometimes of religion. But those events also helped create an attitude of ‘looking after your mates’, and especially of taking care of the ‘battler’ (the person who is finding life tough). Solidarity with others, and mateship generally, are part of Australia’s cultural ‘psyche’.

The Salvation Army in Australia has enjoyed the reputation of showing love in action.

‘Christianity with its sleeves rolled up.’ Many people applaud the Army’s capacity to show love, support and solidarity without ‘forcing religion down their throats’.

In the early days, The Salvation Army established some of the first social services in the world with the Prison-Gate Brigade for newly-released prisoners, and homes for ‘fallen’

women. The Army was showing solidarity with those who may have been rejected by much of society.

By the end of the two world wars, the Army had earned a reputation for being right at the front line, taking care of the military personnel with a ‘cuppa’ and other refreshments. Some of the stories of the intrepid Red Shield services personnel have become legendary: ‘We were at the very front, with a minefield in front of us, and who should be coming towards us through the minefield but the “Sally Man.”’ That sense of being on the front line is something that has remained part of the Army’s approach through subsequent decades.

Australia has its share of cyclones, bushfires and floods, and The Salvation Army is there bringing support to people who may have lost their homes, livelihood and, sometimes, loved ones.

In more recent years, the same love in action has been evident in times of natural disaster.

Australia has its share of cyclones, bushfires and floods, and The Salvation Army is there bringing support to people who may have lost their homes, livelihood and, sometimes, loved ones. In some ways, the Army’s presence during natural disasters has also involved front-line responses, and has become part of the ‘mythology’ surrounding the Red Shield. in love– in culture

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in culture These days, The Salvation Army has an extensive and sophisticated range of social programmes designed to respond to the needs of people who are finding life tough. Sometimes, that involves responses as diverse as providing accommodation for people who are homeless; supervised withdrawal for people with alcohol and other drug dependencies; support and safety for people experiencing family violence; other assistance for people who may need help with budgeting.

CURRENT CHALLENGES FOR THE ARMY The Salvation Army also faces some current challenges in a country that has sometimes been dubbed ‘the most godless nation on earth’. The ‘unchurched’ of contemporary Australia are the increasing number of people that have no idea about the gospel.

As well, many have become ‘de-churched’: even if they retain belief about God, they

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don’t feel the need to connect with church or other Christians. The Australian suspicion of authority – including religious authority – feeds attitudes that are anti-church.

The openness of many people to The Salvation Army’s brand of love in action provides an opening to communicate

the gospel. There are two limits on these opportunities. The workers who respond in our social programmes do so with care and professionalism, although not all operate out of a Salvationist understanding of love in action. Equally, some Salvationists who understand love in action are only starting to discover the sense of deep fulfilment that comes from serving others in such missional engagement.

The openness of many people to The Salvation Army’s brand of love in action provides an opening to communicate the gospel.

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culture in context: 1. How might it be possible for love in action to lose its connection to the motivation behind it – of love for God and others?

2. Why might people receiving help not understand the spiritual motivation behind it?

3. How can The Salvation Army capitalise on its level of community acceptance for the sake of the whole gospel?

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES one rmy

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What resources would you add?

Let us know by emailing OneArmy@salvationarmy.org or visit www.salvationarmy.org/ onearmy/resources

The introductory discussion points, Bible readings and prayers help put the series into the context of each life and individual understanding. The Leader’s Manual has further suggestions as to how these opportunities for growth may be developed.

@TSAOneArmy This unit relates in particular to doctrines 2, 6, 9, 10 and 11

referenced resources for This unit

recommended resources for The Series books for the Series The Holy Bible The Salvation Army Handbook of Doctrine, Salvation Books, IHQ The Salvation Army in the Body of Christ: An Ecclesiological Statement, Salvation Books, IHQ The Salvation Army Year Book, Salvation Books, IHQ The Song Book of The Salvation Army, IHQ Called to be God’s People – based on the Calls of the International Spiritual Life Commission, Salvation Books, IHQ Samuel Logan Brengle: Heart for God, edited by Peter Farthing, Australia Eastern Territory Holiness Unwrapped, Salvation Books, IHQ and Australia Eastern Territory The Life and Ministry of William Booth, Roger J. Green, Abingdon Press, Nashville, TN, USA Who are These Salvationists? An Analysis for the 21st Century, Shaw Clifton, Crest Books, The Salvation Army, Alexandria, VA, USA Some of these books are available in a number of languages. dvds for the Series Called to be God’s People – based on the Calls of the International Spiritual Life Commission, Salvation Books, IHQ Holiness Unwrapped, IHQ and Australia Eastern Territory Our People – The remarkable story of William and Catherine Booth and The Salvation Army, Australia Eastern Territory Boundless Salvation, four-part series by John Cleary, Australia Southern Territory

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books for this unit The Song Book of The Salvation Army (2015 edition), No 509.

See the In Christ booklet, page 10.

3 The Four Loves, C.S. Lewis, Collins, are depicted as affection, friendship, eros and charity.

4 See The General Next to God, Richard Collier, Collins, chapter 8.

5 See the chapter on ‘Faithfulness’ in the ‘Fruit of the Spirit’ section of Holiness Unwrapped, IHQ and Australia Eastern Territory.

6 The theme ‘As I have loved you’ is the focus of Part 2 of the book, Love – Right at the Heart, IHQ. Part 3 provides words and music for the song of the same title.

7 See the Introduction booklet, page 2.

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song ‘As I have loved you’ Love-Right at the Heart, pages 111-113, can be downloaded from the IHQ website - www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/vision acknowledegments for the series Writer and executive producer: Robert Street Youth script: Nick Coke Leader’s Manual: Margaret Sutherland Editor: Paul Mortlock Graphic design: Jooles Tostevin © Copyright 2015 The General of The Salvation Army

additional resources

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Note to youth leaders This material can be delivered in a single session. However, by using the additional resources listed at the end, or those recommended on the website, it can be extended over more sessions.

We haven’t included suggested timings because much will depend on the age, understanding and size of each group.

For some of the activities in the series, advanced preparation and materials are required.

See also the Leader’s Manual for other ideas that could be adapted.

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inlove thelovEofgod LOVE! How do you describe the indescribable? This one word has so many meanings and associations. Yet the Bible describes it as the very essence of God. His love gives life to the world and is the source of all that is good (see page 02 of the main book).

Have a go at this mime-action game to get you thinking about the word ‘love’. Sit in a circle with other members of your group.

Go around the group and allow each person to say something that they ‘love’ – it could be an activity like football, a person like ‘my sister’ or even a favourite food! Each person must choose something different. Now think of a miming action that goes with it – pretending to kick a ball, for example.

Then go around the circle and give everyone the chance to say the thing they love and show the action that goes with it. Watch carefully because you’ll need to remember them! To start the game, choose one person to say their word and mime their action, in love

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then follow immediately with someone else’s in the group. Now it is that person’s turn.

They must, without hesitation, say their word, do their action and choose another one from the circle. You are not allowed to return to the person that passed it to you.

Try to get the game going as fast as possible.

If someone hesitates too long or gets an action wrong they are out of the game!

Now have a discussion about love.

Here are some questions: What different meanings of the word love can you think of? How is the word used in your language and culture?

Can you give an example of what true love looks like?

What do you think the Bible means when it describes God as love?

(1 John 4:8) How does God show his love for the world? Give some examples from your own experience. youth book

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discussion

materials NEEDED PAPER LOVE HEART SHAPES, PENS

inLOVE THECOSTOFLOVE JESUS taught his disciples that love is costly.

More significantly, he showed it. Followers of Jesus are called to express his love to others with whatever support they are able to give. If The Salvation Army is to thrive, grow, develop and make the good impact God intends, it must be prepared to keep paying the price of love (see pages 04 and 05 of the main book).

Give everybody three ‘love heart’ shapes cut out from a piece of paper. Use the template opposite.

Encourage everyone in the group to choose three of the Bible verses from the list below and to write on each ‘love heart’ one thing Scripture tells us that followers of Jesus are called to do in order to show love. When you are ready, go around the group sharing what you have written down. Place all the love hearts in the middle of the circle and arrange them into one big love heart shape.

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bible

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Deuteronomy 10:12, 13; Proverbs 10:12; 1 John 3:17; Romans 12:9-13; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Luke 6:35; Mark 12:30; John 13:34, 35; Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:12-14; Matthew 5:43-45

Now discuss the following questions: Give an example of when you have seen others demonstrate Christian love as described in these verses. What happened and what impact did it have on a situation, person or community?

How easy is it to love in the way the Bible asks us to? Which of these verses are the most challenging in your experience?

What is the cost of love like? What might we have to give up to become more loving?

How did Jesus demonstrate the true life of love? youth book

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activity

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materials NEEDED PENS AND PAPER

inlove love – relationships VIEWS and approaches to love and relationships vary the world over. Not only are there cultural and religious differences in understanding, but also people themselves have widely differing attitudes. Wherever we are in the world, whether in marriage or in friendship, all Christians are called to live in faithful, committed and selfless relationships with others (see page 06 of the main book).

Write down a list of the most important attributes required for a long-lasting and loving relationship. Here are a few suggestions: faithfulness, integrity, honesty, communication. Try and add enough extra words for the number of people in your group. Write all the words onto separate small pieces of paper, fold them up and put them into a bowl. Now pass the bowl around and allow each person to take one word each.

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Now have a debate about which is the most important quality of love to have in a relationship. To do this, explain that you are all passengers in a hot air balloon. The balloon is losing altitude, and the only way to save the majority is to throw half of you overboard! Everyone has 20 seconds to explain to the group why the word on their piece of paper is the most important quality for a successful relationship. Once everyone has had a go, the group takes a vote as to who should be able to stay in the balloon and who has to go. Now try it again with the survivors but only allowing them 10 seconds each. Have a vote to see which quality is above all to stay in the balloon!

You may like to close this activity with prayer, asking God to develop all these qualities in the relationships you have with others.

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PRAYER

inlovenotes

materials NEEDED PAPER AND PENS

inLOVE dailyliving WHEN Jesus says, ‘Love one another, as I love you’ (John 13:34), it is a command not just for special occasions but for everyday life. This includes daily activities in how we treat others, how we spend our time and money, and even how we talk to those we find it difficult to love. Our conduct – even in the small things – should reflect an attitude of love (see page 08 of the main book).

Spend some time in prayer together with your group, bringing your lives, attitudes and actions before God. To help with this, ensure everyone has a piece of paper. Fold it in two. On one half list all the people that you find it easy to love. This is likely to include friends and some family members. Add activities, too, from your daily life where you find it easy to get on and show love to others. This could include particular parts of your school day or things you really enjoy doing, like sport or musicmaking. Now, on the other half of the paper privately write down the type of people that in love

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you may find it more difficult to love and activities where you find it a struggle to display love.

Once everyone has completed their lists, have someone read out slowly the words of 1 John 4:7-21 pausing between verses.

Close your eyes whilst you listen so that you can really concentrate on what God may be saying through this Scripture reading. When the reader has finished, spend a few minutes looking again at your list. What implications do these verses have on the relationships you have with others? What might you need to do to love others better? Are there things that you are currently doing that might need to change? What small actions could you take to truly show love to others – especially those you find it hard to love?

Close with a time of prayer for one another. You may like to get into groups of twos and threes to do this and share something with the others that could be prayed for specifically. youth book

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creative worship

idea

inlovenotes

materials NEEDED PAPER, PENS, PAINT, NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES, CAMERA AND COMPUTER

inLOVE

thesupremacyoflove THE command to love is the rock on which everything else is built – a constant and ongoing requirement. It is the supreme expression of Christian faith. In the end, when our abilities, gifts and achievements of our life are put into eternal perspective as we stand before God, it is by love they will be measured. Only then will we understand the depth of love that flows from God to us. Only then will we understand fully the supremacy of love (see page 11 of the main book).

Work together with others in your group to create a large collage that represents the true nature of Christian love. To help with this, begin by reading 1 Corinthians chapter 13 and identify all the words that describe love as it should be. Now, create a large piece of artwork that reflects those words. This can be done by drawing and painting your own

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pictures, cutting out photos from magazines or newspapers, printing images from a computer, writing words, quoting Scripture or taking your own photos and printing them out. Be as creative as you can, using your imagination and artistic skills to give worship to God! You may like to share photos of your artwork to the One Army Youth website so that youth groups around the world can see your creative act of worship. You can upload them at: www. salvationarmy.org/onearmy/youth

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inlovenotes

homework

further bible study

Set yourself a task to be completed by the time your group meets again. Ask everyone in the group to join in so that you can all talk about it and find out how you got on. Decide on one of these two ideas: 1. Jesus says in Matthew 22:37-39: ‘“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbour as yourself.”’ Firstly, try to memorise these verses so that you can say them to your group from memory when you next meet.

Secondly, take time every day for five days to think about these verses. On Monday reflect on what it means to love God with ‘all your heart’. On Tuesday reflect on what it means to love God with ‘all your soul’. On Wednesday reflect on what it means to love God with ‘all your mind’. On Thursday reflect on what it means to ‘love your neighbour’.

On Friday reflect on what it means to ‘love your neighbour as yourself ’. Each day, make a note of your thoughts and write down anything that you’re not sure about. When your group meets again share some of your reflections and discuss any questions you had.

2. There have been many inspiring lives of Christians who have shared a life of love.

Ask leaders and adult members of your corps who they admire most and follow-up with research on some of them to see what you can learn. It could be someone who is a current or past member of your corps – you will need to ask people to find out more about them. Alternatively, there are some wonderful Salvation Army members throughout the years who you could research through books and websites. See what you can find out about General Eva Burrows, for example, or take a look at this video on the UK Territory YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXwzrgsHZ3s about Commissioner Harry Williams. You may like to look further back into Christian history and read about the life of St Francis of Assisi or St Teresa of Avila. As you research, ask yourself these questions: How did or do these people demonstrate a life of love?

How can I live this kind of life where I am today?

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song ‘As I have loved you’ is available to download from the IHQ website, www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/vision and also in Love - Right at the Heart, pages 111-113 notes

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have you looked at ... the ‘In Culture’ feature on pages 12-15 of the main book?

homework

further bible study

When Jesus talks about the greatest commandment in Matthew 22:37-39, he is linking together loving God and loving others. Why do you think it is important to keep these two kinds of love together? Take a look at the following Bible verses to see how they might help with this question: Micah 6:8; Matthew 5:31-46; John 14:15; 1 John 4:16-21.

Consider how The Salvation Army slogan ‘heart to God, hand to man’ reflects the meaning in these verses.

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When you have completed the activities in this book, remember there are another 12 books in the One Army series. They can be studied in any order and at any time. Decide which one would be suitable next. They are: The Introduction (One Life), In Calling, In Covenant, In Christ, In Truth, In Purpose, In Prayer, In Fellowship, In Service, In Faith, In Holiness, and In Hope.

recommended resources for The series books The Bible The Salvation Army Year Book, Salvation Books, IHQ What and Why We Believe, Harry Dean, Salvation Books, IHQ From Generation to Generation, Robert and Janet Street, Salvation Books, IHQ The Life and Ministry of William Booth, Roger Green, Abingdon Press Never the Same Again, Shaw Clifton, Crest Books The Common People’s Gospel, Gunpei Yamamuro, Salvation Books, IHQ Holiness Unwrapped, Salvation Books, IHQ, Australia Eastern Territory Born Again In The Spirit, Kapela Ntoya, Salvation Books, IHQ

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DVD Our People – The Remarkable Story of William and Catherine Booth and The Salvation Army, Australia Eastern Territory this unit Download ‘As I have loved you’ from the IHQ website, www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/vision.

The song, lyrics and music, plus a recording @TSAOneArmy is centred on the command to love.

Check with your own territorial or command headquarters for youth resources to add to this list.

What resources would you add?

Let us know by emailing OneArmy@salvationarmy.org or visit www.salvationarmy.org/ onearmy/resources Don’t forget that more ideas are in the Leader’s Manual.

Some books are available in different languages. Please ask.

homework

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additional resources

one rmy youth book