Open Up Your Hearts! The Gift Of Authentic Christian Love

Open Up Your Hearts! The Gift of Authentic Christian Love

2 Corinthians 6:11-13

Introduction:

Brothers and sisters in Christ, I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to speak with you today. We gather here, not just as individuals, but as a family bound by the love of Jesus Christ. In a world where division and discord seem to be ever-increasing, the call to open our hearts and embrace authentic Christian love is more urgent than ever. Today, we will delve into 2 Corinthians 6:11-13, where Paul appeals to the Corinthians to open their hearts. This passage will serve as our foundation as we explore the immense power and transformative nature of genuine Christian love.

Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 6:11-13 (NIV)

"We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections. In return (I speak as to children) widen your hearts also."

1. Expanding Our Hearts: Embracing Unity in the Church Family (Ephesians 4:1-6)

In Ephesians 4:1-6, Paul urges us to "live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Here, Paul highlights the virtues necessary to foster unity within the church: humility, gentleness, patience, and love.

Imagine a church where every member practices these virtues. Such a church would be a beacon of hope and a refuge for the weary. The early church, described in Acts 2:42-47, exemplifies this unity. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, breaking bread and praying together. Their unity and love for one another were so powerful that it attracted many to the faith.

We are called to expand our hearts, to embrace each other as members of one body. When we do this, we reflect the unity of the Spirit and demonstrate to the world that we are disciples of Christ, as Jesus himself said in John 13:35, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

2. Love at Home: Building Strong Relationships Within the Family (Colossians 3:13-14)

Colossians 3:13-14 instructs us to "bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." The family unit is the first place where we learn about love, forgiveness, and unity.

Consider the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32. Despite the son's recklessness and disrespect, the father's love remained steadfast. When the son returned, the father ran to him, embraced him, and celebrated his return. This parable teaches us about the unconditional love of our Heavenly Father and sets a standard for how we should love our family members.

Forgiveness and love at home create a foundation of strength and resilience. When we bear with one another and forgive, we model Christ's love, making our homes places of peace and sanctuary.

3. Drawing Near to God: Cultivating an Authentic Connection (Romans 8:38-39)

In Romans 8:38-39, Paul reassures us that nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. This unshakeable love is the cornerstone of our faith. Knowing that we are loved unconditionally by God empowers us to love others authentically.

To cultivate a deeper connection with God, we must spend time in prayer, immerse ourselves in His Word, and live out His commandments. James 4:8 encourages us, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." When we draw near to God, we experience His love more profoundly, which in turn enables us to love others more fully.

Consider the life of Jesus. He often withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16). His relationship with the Father was intimate and constant, providing Him with the strength to love sacrificially and serve selflessly. As we seek to draw near to God, let us follow Jesus' example, knowing that His love will fill our hearts and overflow to those around us.

4. One Body, Many Parts: How Love Unites Us in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27)

1 Corinthians 12:12-27 describes the church as the body of Christ, with many parts working together in unity. "For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ." Each member has a unique role, and all are essential for the body to function properly.

Paul emphasizes that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other (1 Corinthians 12:25). When one part suffers, every part suffers with it; when one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.