Understand and emulate the profound, sacrificial love of Jesus, as it is through this love that we can truly reflect God's light in the world.
Good morning, church family. Today we're going to delve into the beautiful and profound topic of the Love of Jesus, the call to imitate Him, and the undeniable Power of Love. We're going to draw from Ephesians 5:1-2, John 3:16, John 13:35, and John 15:13.
Ephesians 5:1-2 says, "Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
John 3:16 tells us, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
John 13:35 reads, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
And finally, John 15:13 states, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."
These passages remind us of the depth of love Jesus has for us, and the example He sets for us to follow.
C.S. Lewis once wrote, "'Putting on Christ'...is not one among many jobs a Christian has to do; and it is not a sort of special exercise for the top class. It is the whole of Christianity. Christianity offers nothing else at all." This is the kind of love we're called to emulate, a love that is sacrificial, selfless, and transformative.
Let's open today's sermon with a prayer:
Heavenly Father, as we explore your Word today, open our hearts and minds to fully grasp the depth of Your love for us. Help us to understand what it means to walk in the way of love, just as Jesus did. Empower us to display that love to those around us, reflecting Your light in this world. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Let's dive in, shall we?
The Love of Jesus is the cornerstone of our belief, the foundation upon which our faith is built, and the driving force behind our actions and attitudes. The Love of Jesus is not merely an abstract concept or a theological doctrine; it is a living, breathing reality that has the power to transform lives and change the world.
A love that is sacrificial in nature: As Ephesians 5:1-2 reminds us, Christ loved us so much that He gave Himself up for us. This is the ultimate expression of love, a love that is willing to lay down one's life for the sake of others. This sacrificial love is not based on our worthiness or our good deeds, but solely on the grace and mercy of God. It is a love that sees us in our brokenness, in our sinfulness, and yet chooses to love us unconditionally.
A love that is eternal: John 3:16 tells us that because of God's love, we have the promise of eternal life. This love not only saves us from eternal separation from God, but it also transforms us from the inside out. It changes our hearts, our minds, and our lives. It gives us a new identity, a new purpose, and a new hope. This love is not a one-time event, but a lifelong process that continually shapes us into the image of Christ.
A love that is inclusive: As John 13:35 illustrates, Jesus' love is not limited to a select few, but extends to all people. His love breaks down barriers, transcends cultural and social boundaries, and embraces all humanity. This inclusive love challenges us to love others not based on their status, their race, or their background, but simply because they are God's beloved children.
A love that is tangible: It is not a love that is merely spoken of, but a love that is demonstrated in action. John 15:13 reminds us that Jesus' love was not just words, but actions. He laid down His life for us, showing us the full extent of His love. This tangible love calls us to not just talk about love, but to live it out in our daily lives, in our interactions with others, and in our service to the world.
A reality to be experienced: It's a love that is meant to be felt deeply, to be embraced fully, and to be shared generously. It's a love that changes us, that shapes us, and that compels us to love others in the same way.
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