Love in the Church
Love in the Church7
Loving Others: God's Primary Plan Is the Local Church
By Mike Bickle3144:38MAT 5:46JHN 13:35JHN 15:9JHN 15:12EPH 3:18EPH 4:16HEB 10:25Mike Bickle emphasizes that loving others is central to God's plan for the local church, as illustrated in John 15. He highlights that Jesus loves us with the same intensity as the Father loves Him, and this love compels us to extend it to others, especially those who may not enhance our lives in any way. Bickle encourages believers to see their pastoral calling as a responsibility to love and include those who are often neglected within the church community. He asserts that true fellowship goes beyond comfort zones and requires intentional outreach to the weaker members of the body of Christ. Ultimately, the church is called to be a family that reflects the Father's love, demonstrating it to the world.
The Pearl Psalm -- Psalm 133
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 13:45A.B. Simpson emphasizes the beauty and necessity of Christian unity in his sermon on Psalm 133, referring to it as the 'Pearl Psalm.' He explains that unity is not only good but also pleasant, as it reflects God's nature and purpose for the Church, which is the Body of Christ. Simpson highlights that true unity comes from being connected to Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to love one another genuinely. He encourages the congregation to pursue unity actively, reminding them that love is the key to overcoming divisions and fostering spiritual growth. Ultimately, he asserts that the blessings of unity include God's presence, answered prayers, and the attraction of the Church to the world.
1 Thes 3
By Phil Beach Jr.2918:521TH 3:12Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the challenges faced by the early church in Thessalonica, drawing parallels to today's society that often defies God's moral standards. He highlights the importance of love within the church community, urging believers to support one another and avoid gossip and division. Beach warns against the manipulative behaviors that can arise in relationships, stressing that true fellowship is rooted in holiness and the teachings of Jesus. He encourages the congregation to embrace their identity as living stones in the body of Christ, fostering genuine connections and accountability. Ultimately, he calls for a return to biblical principles and a commitment to love and serve one another as Christ intended.
Psalms Chapter 15 the Pearl Psalm -- Psalm 133
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 13:45A.B. Simpson emphasizes the beauty of Christian unity as depicted in Psalm 133, referring to it as the 'Pearl Psalm.' He explains that the Church, as the Body of Christ, reflects God's purpose for unity, which is essential for spiritual growth and the fulfillment of Christ's command to love one another. Simpson highlights that true unity is not only good but also pleasant, bringing blessings such as answered prayers and the presence of the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to pursue unity actively, reminding them that love is the key to overcoming divisions and fostering a community that attracts others to Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a reliance on the Holy Spirit to cultivate this love and unity among believers.
Of the Duties of Church-Members to Each Other.
By John Gill0MAT 20:26JHN 13:34ROM 13:81CO 12:26GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 2:11TH 5:14HEB 10:251JN 3:17John Gill emphasizes the essential duties of church members towards one another, highlighting love as the foremost obligation, as it fosters unity and reflects Christ's command. He outlines the importance of maintaining peace, mutual support, and sympathy in all circumstances, urging members to communicate both materially and spiritually. Gill also stresses the need for accountability, encouraging members to watch over one another and bear each other's burdens, while also advocating for prayer and the importance of assembling together. He concludes by reminding members to uphold the faith and be examples of holiness, ensuring that their conduct glorifies God and strengthens the church community.
Letter: 14e 35 Unknown, -, 1840
By John Nelson Darby0ROM 12:101CO 12:12GAL 5:13EPH 5:25PHP 1:3COL 4:21TH 5:16HEB 10:24JAS 5:161PE 4:10John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of love and service within the church, illustrating that true love for the Lord compels believers to serve one another. He highlights the unwavering love of Christ for the church and the necessity of individual commitment to prayer and support for fellow believers, as exemplified by Epaphras. Darby encourages the congregation to recognize that even small acts of service, rooted in prayer and thanksgiving, contribute significantly to the body of Christ. He reminds them that joy is intrinsically linked to prayer and gratitude, fostering a deeper connection among believers.
1 John 2:13
By John Gill01JN 2:13John Gill emphasizes the importance of love in the Christian community as he addresses different groups within the church: fathers, young men, and little children. He explains that fathers possess deep spiritual knowledge and understanding of God, urging them to remember and share the ancient truths of faith. Young men, characterized by their zeal and strength, are reminded of their victory over evil through Christ, encouraging them to love and support one another. Little children, as new believers, are called to recognize their relationship with God as their Father, fostering love for Him and their fellow believers. Gill's message highlights the interconnectedness of love, knowledge, and spiritual growth across all stages of faith.