1. God Created Us for Relationship

Summary:

God made us to share His love, just as parents have children to share their love.

Detail:

Humanity is created in God’s image for relationship; God’s love is the initiating force behind creation and redemption.

Explanation:

We have knowledge of God's will and free will. God gave humanity authority and designed us for fellowship with Him.

Key Verses:
  • Genesis 1:26–27
  • Genesis 2:16–20
  • John 15:8
  • Matthew 5:16
  • Psalm 86:9
  • Genesis 5:22–24
  • Genesis 3:8
  • Acts 17:26–27
  • 1 John 4:7–10

2. Humanity Rebelled

Summary:

We rebel, and God cannot allow rebellion to continue unchecked.

Detail:

Sin breaks fellowship with God. God gave humanity free will, knowing rebellion would occur, but desiring love freely given.

Explanation:

Scripture affirms human choice, the fall, and that sin separates humanity from God’s presence and fellowship.

Key Verses:
  • Deuteronomy 30:19
  • Genesis 2:16–17 → Genesis 3:6
  • Romans 1:21 (1:18–32)
  • Genesis 3
  • 1 Peter 1:20
  • Isaiah 59:2
  • Romans 3:23

3. God Demonstrated His Love Through Redemption

Summary:

God took the punishment we deserve so we can repent, believe, and be restored.

Detail:

Christ bore the penalty for sin. Those who repent and place faith in Jesus as Lord receive forgiveness and renewed relationship.

Explanation:

These passages show God’s redemptive plan, Christ’s atoning work, and the conditions of repentance and faith.

Key Verses:
  • 1 Peter 2:24
  • Isaiah 53:5–6
  • Acts 2:38
  • Acts 20:21
  • Romans 10:9–10
  • Romans 5:1–2
  • John 15:1–6
  • Romans 6:23
  • John 3:16
  • Matthew 19:29
  • Titus 1:2

4. We Love and Obey God in Response

Summary:

We love God because He first loved us. We obey Him and grow in relationship.

Detail:

Believers grow in desire for God, practicing prayer, Scripture, fellowship, and obedience. God provides ongoing forgiveness.

Explanation:

Love expresses itself in obedience; growth is progressive; forgiveness continues for those walking in the light.

Key Verses:
  • John 14:15
  • 1 John 2:3–6
  • Philippians 1:9–11
  • Philippians 2:12–13
  • 2 Peter 1:5–8
  • Philippians 4:6
  • 2 Timothy 3:16–17
  • Hebrews 10:24–25
  • James 1:22
  • 1 John 1:7–9
  • Matthew 6:12
  • Hebrews 4:16
  • Hebrews 10:26–27
  • John 14:21
  • John 6:15