Commanded to Love Against the World's Hatred
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 14 2024 | John 15:17-19
KEY VERSE:
This is my command: Love each other. If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. John 15:17-18 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
How easy is it to love someone who has demonstrated that they clearly hate you? Jesus issues a clear command to His followers: "Love each other." This command is not just an option but the defining characteristic of a Christian's life. However, Jesus quickly contrasts this call to love with a warning about the world's hatred. As His disciples, we are called to live in a way that reflects His love, even in a world that often opposes the values of Christ. The love we are commanded to show is a radical, selfless love that mirrors the love of Jesus—a love that stands out, especially in a world filled with hostility and division.
Jesus warns us that the world will hate us because we do not belong to it. Our allegiance is to Christ, not to the values or systems of this world. This distinction naturally creates tension and sometimes even animosity because the world resists the light and truth that Jesus brings. The world loved its own, but because we are chosen out of the world by Christ, we are no longer of it. This separation from worldly values makes us targets of the same hatred that Jesus Himself experienced. Yet, despite this, we are still commanded to love, even those who may oppose or persecute us.
The command to love in the face of the world’s hatred is a powerful testimony of our faith. It demonstrates that our love is not conditional on how we are treated, but is rooted in the unconditional love of Christ. By loving others, especially in the face of hatred or opposition, we reflect the transformative power of the Gospel and bear witness to the truth of who Jesus is. This love is a profound countercultural statement that not only fulfills Christ’s command but also has the power to soften hearts and open doors to the Gospel. As we navigate a world that may not always embrace our faith, let us commit to living out this command to love, trusting that our witness will shine brightly even in the darkest circumstances. But truly, it is not an easy command to love in the face of such heated hatred from the world.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Let us commit to living out the command to love no matter what hatred we face. Let us depend on the Holy Spirit to inflame our passionate spirit with the love of Christ and will to give ourselves away in loving others.
PRAYER:
Strengthen us, Dear Lord, in the face of such fierce hatred in the world today. That we may love as you love and give ourselves away in living the world into their salvation. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: HATES The Greek word for "hate" used here is "μισέω" (miseo), which conveys a strong sense of detestation and enmity. It implies an intense, active aversion or hostility towards someone or something. In the context of the use of the word μισέω" (miseo), Jesus teaches his disciples that they should expect and be prepared for persecution and hatred from the world, as this is a natural outcome of living in contrast to the world's values and aligning with Jesus. The disciples' experience of this hatred is tied to their identification with Jesus, reflecting the world's rejection of Him and His teachings. Despite this hostility, Jesus commands His disciples to endure in love, making it the defining characteristic that sets them apart from the world's animosity. Reflections: How can you continue to show Christ’s love in your actions and attitudes, especially when faced with opposition or hatred from the world? How does your commitment to love as Jesus commanded strengthen your witness and faith?
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