Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 1
The speaker defines kindness as “showing love towards our fellow humans that comes from our love of God,” while admitting non-Christians can do kind acts; what do you think he means by “genuine kindness,” and what does that claim suggest about God as the true source and standard of love?
Another way to ask: He says real kindness comes from loving God, even though non-Christians can do kind things. What do you think he means by “genuine kindness,” and what does that say about God as the main source and measure of love?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Based on the speaker’s teaching, “genuine kindness” is kindness that flows out of a real love for God and therefore takes love to God’s level and standard, not just polite or occasional good behavior. His claim suggests God is the deepest source of true love and that Christian kindness is measured by God’s commands—especially loving as Christ loved.
- He defines kindness as “showing love towards our fellow humans that comes from our love of God.”
- He admits “people can show kindness without being a Christian,” but adds that “showing genuine kindness comes from us loving God.”
- He roots kindness in Jesus’ two greatest commandments: love God fully and “love your neighbor as yourself,” saying, “this is where kindness begins.”
- He argues Jesus raises the bar: “love one another as I have loved you,” calling it “the next level.”
- He implies God enables even unbelievers to do some good because “God put something in everyone’s heart.”