The transformative power of Christ's love
Today (January 21, 2024) , at our weekly Shepherding Class at Westside Church of Christ, we studied the common theme that echoes through both John 15:9-13 and 1 John 3:11-18 : LOVE.
More specifically, they both focus on the transformative power of Christ's love and its implications for how we live as His followers.
Here are the take aways from the discussion and sharing:
John 15:9-13
Abiding in Christ's love: This central image emphasizes a deep connection with Christ and his love, not just a fleeting feeling.
Keeping commandments as an expression of love: Obedience isn't merely following rules, but a way to demonstrate and maintain connection with Christ's love.
Loving one another as Jesus loved us: This is the greatest commandment, the defining mark of his followers.
1 John 3:11-18
Assurance of salvation through love: Love for other believers isn't just a good deed, but evidence of a transformed heart and true salvation.
Love vs. hatred: This stark contrast highlights the difference between those following Christ and those who don't. Hatred leads to spiritual death, while love is a hallmark of new life in Christ.
Practical definition of love: Laying down one's life for others isn't just a grand gesture, but a practical extension of Christ's love that should manifest in our daily lives.
The emphasis was that staying connected to Christ's love leads to an outward expression of love towards others.
They address the potential for persecution but urge Christians to respond with love, not hatred.
Both passages ultimately point towards the reality of new life in Christ and the joy that comes from living in his love and actively demonstrating it to others.
See you again next Sunday!