Genesis 3:11-19; 2 Corinthians 1:3-7; Romans 12:10, Galatians 6:10

Sermon Notes:

1) Our past and present separate us from God and others, Gen 3:11-19

2) Our Savior has comforted us so that we might comfort and connect to others, 2 Cor 1

3) Our Savior has left us examples of comfort and connection, Acts 4:34- 37; I Cor. 10:6

4) Our Savior has left us commands of comfort and connection, Rom 12:10

5) Our Savior has not left us without comfort, 2 Corinthians

Reflection Questions:

1. How does our sin nature keep us from connecting with God and others? Do we ever forget how much remaining sin we still have even after God saves us? See Romans 7:7-25.

2. Can you think of a time when the God of all comfort comforted you in a way that allowed you to comfort others? See 2 Cor. 1:3-7.

3. Barnabas (Acts 4:36) was a nickname that meant “son of encouragement.” Can you think of someone you know who is a Barnabas? How might you become more of a Barnabas? Also, Titus was apparently a Barnabas, too. See 2 Cor. 7:5-13.

4. Have you prayed that God would give you more opportunities to do good (Gal. 6:10), or that you could recognize the opportunities that you already have? Have you prayed that God would help you to outdo (Rom 12:10) your neighbors in showing honor to others?

5. Do you ever worry that God will let you overdo it in caring for others? Consider this prayer from St. Augustine: “Lord, command what you will, but then grant what you command.”