WHAT I WISH JESUS SAID: “Follow Me...and you'll love people better.” WHAT JESUS ACTUALLY SAID: “Hate your father and mother...or you can't follow Me.” THREE THINGS THAT MAKE THIS SO HARD It feels It seems It sounds John 13:35; Exodus 20:12 SO WHAT DO WE DO WITH THIS COMMAND? Recognize your instincts are Luke 14:25 Understand that Jesus is talking about Luke 14:26-27 Realize that when we love God first, we love others Mark 12:30-31 Questions for Further Reflection & Discussion Think of someone you deeply respect (mentor, parent, teacher, friend?). What’s one thing they’ve asked you to do that felt really hard at first? Read Luke 14:25-27 and review the sermon outline. What got you thinking and why? When you read about Jesus saying, “Hate your father and mother,” what was your first reaction? How about when He adds spouse, kids, and self? Review the three final points of the outline under SO WHAT DO WE DO WITH THIS COMMAND? Which is most helpful to you in understanding what Jesus really meant? Why? Jesus talks about priority in following Him. What are some “things” in your life that compete with following Him fully? Have you ever had to put God’s direction above family or friends? How did it feel and what did you learn? What is one area of your life where you need to reassess your priorities to follow Jesus more fully? Mark 12:30-31 reminds us that loving God first helps us love others better. Can you think of a practical example where that has been true in your life?