Description
What does it mean to love one another and what is the ultimate example and reason of love? In 1 John 4:9-10, John shows us that love is not defined by the world, our feelings, or even our sacrifices, but by God’s sending of His Son. This message helped us see that God’s love is shown, proactive, sacrificial, and God-centered—and calls the church to love one another in a way that reflects the glory of God.
Message Highlights:God’s love is shown. God’s love is not abstract or hidden, but was made visible in Jesus Christ. The incarnation shows us that love is tangible, personal, and revealed among us.
God’s love is proactive. God moved toward us while we were still sinners and enemies. He did not wait for us to clean ourselves up or move toward Him first.
God’s love is sacrificial. The Father sent His one and only Son into the world for sinners. True love is willing to give what is costly for the good of another.
God’s love is God-centered. Jesus was sent as the propitiation for our sins, satisfying the wrath of God and displaying the glory of God. Christian love must be centered on God, not merely comfort, approval, or human happiness.
Main Point: Show God’s love by proactively and sacrificially pursuing others for God’s sake.
Practical Application:
Move toward others first. Don’t wait for others to love, apologize, suffer, or ask for help before you act. God’s love teaches us to take initiative in pursuing others.
Love sacrificially. True love will cost us comfort, convenience, time, and sometimes even reputation. We should not avoid loving others simply because it may hurt.
Keep God at the center of your love. Loving others well does not mean pleasing them above God or affirming whatever they want. The most loving thing we can do is love people for God’s sake and according to God’s truth.
Let God’s love reshape your relationships. When we see how God has loved us in Christ, it changes how we love spouses, children, friends, coworkers, and the church. A greater devotion to God should produce a greater demonstration of love for others.
Resources Currently Available at the Veritas Church Bookstore:
1 John - The Gospel-Centered Life in the Bible
1-3 John - Knowing The Bible 12 Week Study
1,2, & 3 John For You - God’s Word For You
Don’t Follow You Heart
1-3 John ESV Scripture Journal
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