THE KINGDOM CULTURE OF LOVE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: John 13:34-35, 1 John 4:7-8
"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." – John 13:34-35
"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." – 1 John 4:7-8
Supporting Texts: Matthew 22:37-39, 1 Corinthians 13:1-7, Colossians 3:12-14, Romans 12:9-10, Galatians 5:22
INTRODUCTION
Love is the defining characteristic of God's Kingdom. It is not just an emotion but a way of life that reflects the very nature of God. Jesus commanded His disciples to love one another as a sign of true Kingdom citizenship (John 13:34-35). Love is the foundation of all Kingdom relationships, shaping our attitudes, actions, and interactions.
In this study, we will explore the Kingdom culture of love, its attributes, and how believers can manifest it in their daily lives.
1. LOVE IS THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT
Love is central to the teachings of Jesus and the foundation of Kingdom living.
a) Love for God is the First Commandment
Jesus taught that loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind is the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-38).
b) Loving Others is the Second Commandment
We are called to love our neighbours as ourselves (Matthew 22:39).
c) Love Fulfils the Law
Every commandment is rooted in love, making it the essence of true obedience (Romans 13:8-10).
d) Without Love, All Else is Meaningless
Spiritual gifts and religious activities are empty without love (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).
e) Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan
Jesus illustrated true love in the parable of the Good Samaritan, showing that love goes beyond social and racial boundaries (Luke 10:25-37).
2. KINGDOM LOVE IS SACRIFICIAL AND SELFLESS
True Kingdom love is not selfish but seeks the good of others.
a) Love Gives and Sacrifices
Jesus demonstrated love by laying down His life for us (John 15:13).
b) Love is Not Self-Seeking
True love considers others above self (Philippians 2:3-4).
c) Love Forgives and Does Not Hold Grudges
Believers must forgive as Christ forgave them (Colossians 3:13).
d) Love Bears the Burdens of Others
We are called to help and support one another in love (Galatians 6:2).
e) Biblical Example: Jesus Washing the Disciples’ Feet
Jesus, the King of Glory, humbled Himself to wash His disciples’ feet, teaching love through service (John 13:3-5).
3. LOVE UNITES AND BUILDS STRONG RELATIONSHIPS
Kingdom love fosters unity and harmony among believers.
a) Love Binds Everything Together in Perfect Unity
Love strengthens relationships and promotes peace (Colossians 3:14).
b) Love Covers a Multitude of Sins
Rather than exposing faults, love seeks to restore and protect (1 Peter 4:8).
c) Love Promotes Humility and Service
Love leads to a heart of humility and servanthood (Mark 10:45).
d) Love Encourages and Strengthens Others
Love speaks words of edification and encouragement (Ephesians 4:29).
e) Biblical Example: The Early Church’s Love and Unity
The early believers shared all things in love, demonstrating Kingdom unity (Acts 2:44-47).
4. LOVE IS THE EVIDENCE OF TRUE KINGDOM CITIZENSHIP
A true child of God must walk in love.
a) Love is the Mark of a True Disciple
Jesus said love is the identifying sign of His followers (John 13:35).
b) Love is the First Fruit of the Spirit
The presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer produces love (Galatians 5:22).
c) Loving Others Reflects God's Love in Us
When we love, we show that we know God (1 John 4:7-8).
d) Love is a Command, Not an Option
We are commanded to love, regardless of feelings (John 15:12).
e) Biblical Example: Stephen’s Love for His Persecutors
Even as he was being stoned, Stephen prayed for his enemies, demonstrating Kingdom love (Acts 7:59-60).
5. PRACTICAL WAYS TO LIVE OUT THE KINGDOM CULTURE OF LOVE
Believers must actively demonstrate love in daily life.
a) Speak Kindly and Genuinely Care for Others
Words and actions should reflect love and compassion (Proverbs 16:24).
b) Serve Others with a Humble Heart
Love is shown through acts of kindness and service (Matthew 23:11).
c) Forgive Quickly and Avoid Strife
Holding grudges is contrary to Kingdom love (Ephesians 4:32).
d) Give Generously to Those in Need
Love expresses itself in generosity and selflessness (2 Corinthians 9:7).
e) Biblical Example: Barnabas Encouraging Paul and John Mark
Barnabas demonstrated love by mentoring Paul and later restoring John Mark (Acts 9:26-27, Acts 15:36-39).
CONCLUSION
The Kingdom culture of love is a lifestyle that every believer must embrace. Love is the foundation of our relationship with God and others. It is sacrificial, unifying, and the true evidence of Kingdom citizenship. By loving as Christ loved, we reflect God’s nature and bring His Kingdom to earth.
Let us commit to walking in love, forgiving, serving, and demonstrating God’s love in every aspect of our lives.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, fill my heart with Your love so I can love others unconditionally.
2. Lord, help me to love as You have commanded.
3. Holy Spirit, teach me to demonstrate love in my actions and words.
4. Father, remove every bitterness and unforgiveness from my heart.
5. Lord, let my life be a reflection of Kingdom love.
6. Father, strengthen my relationships through the power of love.
7. Holy Spirit, help me to love even those who hurt me.
8. Lord, make me a vessel of love and reconciliation.
9. Father, let love be the foundation of my ministry and service.
10. Lord, let my love draw others to Your Kingdom.
