Formation in Enemy-Love (Matthew 5:38-48)

Formation in Enemy-Love (Matthew 5:38-48)
Sermon on the Mount: A Kingdom Upside Down
Sunday, August 6th with Guest Speaker James Rayment

Community Group Questions: James explained that to "turn the other cheek" (verse 39) means to not return an insult for an insult. What ways can we deescalate tensions and turn the the volume down on conflicts that we are involved in? On the opposite end, what responses might we have that turn the volume up? How can we be tempted to be personally vengeful?    What is the difference between loving your enemies and forgiving your enemies? How can we grow in trusting God to do what is right in situations where we have been deeply wronged? Formation is the process of becoming more like Jesus in our knee-jerk responses to situations in life. What challenges do we face in following these commands to love our enemies and how can we overcome these challenges? If Jesus didn't come to destroy the law but to fulfill it, what is the significance of Jesus' commands in Matthew 5:38-48 towards our enemies, especially as it relates to the law of God? How do these commands reflect the character of God? How does God love his enemies? What practical application will you take from the message this week? How do these commands challenge us to live differently? How can we help support one another in applying these things in our lives? How can we pray for one another this week? Are there any practical needs that we can help each other with this week? Resources for "Formation in Enemy-Love"
Audio - https://rainiervalleychurch.com/latest-sermons
Video - https://youtube.com/live/UuDD-uwRZh8?feature=share