1 Peter: Life in the Church: to Love and to Serve (4:7-11)
Our life within the church should stand in contrast to what we face in the world around us. We need to be willing to love and to serve, glorifying God.
Love
This covers posts that relate to the general topic of love. God’s love is a distinct topic.
The Widow’s Offering: When Less Is More – Mark 12:43-44
How much we give, whether of our money, our time, or our talents, is not important. What matters is the generosity with which we give. The one who gives sacrificially of the little he has, has given more than the one who gives abundantly, but at little real cost to himself.
God Loves the Whole World, with No Exception
And John makes it clear that God loves the world. Not just some people who are in the world. But he has a love for everyone. And Jesus came to be the savior of everyone. And all who will believe in him will experience that salvation he offers. Those who refuse to believe will remain in this world and be condemned.
1 Peter: Love One Another Deeply, From the Heart (1:22-2:3)
Love as mutual affection is good. But even better is to love one another with a selfless love that seeks the best for others, and the harmony of the body.
The Challenge to Love – 1 John 4:20-21
John here challenges us with the need to love fellow believers. And not just the lovely. But also to those who act unlovingly toward you.
Laying Down Our Lives – 1 John 3:16-18
Not many of us would likely think of themselves as martyrs. But as believers we are called to lay down our lives for other believers.
If We Keep His Commands – 1 John 2:3-6
If we do indeed know Christ, then we will keep his command to love each other. This love is a product of a saving relationship with Christ.
Ephesians: All In the Family (5:21-6:9)
Paul’s instructions to first century families contains useful information for families today. It also contains advice for workplace relationships.
Ephesians: Rooted and Established In Love (3:14-21)
Paul prays that the Ephesians would be rooted and established in love, a suitable dwelling place for the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit of Power, Love and Self-discipline – 2 Timothy 1:7
This verse is meaningful to those of us who are timid. God has given us his Spirit, the Spirit of power, love and self-discipline.
