What challenges might we face in obeying the command to love one another? The Foundational Command “For this is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.” (1 John 3:11) Why This Call Is Central • Love is the family resemblance of God’s children (John 13:34–35). • It proves a genuine new birth (1 John 4:7). • It fulfills all relational aspects of God’s law (Romans 13:10). Common Obstacles We Meet • Self–centered instincts – “The flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit” (Galatians 5:17). • Personality clashes and differing backgrounds – “Accept one another… just as Christ accepted you” (Romans 15:7). • Unresolved hurt or offense – “See to it that no bitter root grows up” (Hebrews 12:15). • Cultural polarization and prejudice – “There is neither Jew nor Greek… you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). • Fear of vulnerability – “Perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). • Busyness and distraction – “Martha, Martha… only one thing is necessary” (Luke 10:41–42). • Spiritual opposition – “Our struggle is… against the spiritual forces of evil” (Ephesians 6:12). God’s Provision to Overcome • A new heart that actually wants to love (Ezekiel 36:26). • The Holy Spirit who pours God’s love into us (Romans 5:5). • Christ’s own example and empowering presence (John 15:12; Philippians 4:13). • Biblical community for mutual sharpening (Hebrews 10:24–25). Practical Ways to Push Through Each Challenge • Daily surrender self–interest through prayer and Scripture meditation (Luke 9:23). • Listen carefully before speaking to bridge personality gaps (James 1:19). • Pursue quick reconciliation—“do not let the sun go down on your anger” (Ephesians 4:26). • Seek out believers unlike you; share a meal, hear their story (Acts 10:28–35). • Confess fears to God, ask Him to enlarge your heart (Psalm 119:32). • Schedule margin for relationships; love requires time (Ephesians 5:15–16). • Suit up with the armor of God, especially “the shield of faith” (Ephesians 6:13–16). Scriptures That Strengthen Resolve • 1 John 3:16–18 — Love shows itself in deeds, not words alone. • Ephesians 4:32 — “Be kind and tenderhearted, forgiving one another.” • 1 Peter 4:8 — “Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” • Colossians 3:14 — “Above all these things, put on love, which is the bond of perfection.” • Romans 12:18 — “If it is possible… live at peace with everyone.” Encouragement for the Journey Loving one another is neither easy nor optional. Yet every apparent obstacle is an invitation to depend on the Spirit, display Christ’s character, and demonstrate that the gospel truly transforms hearts. Let us walk in the message we’ve heard “from the beginning,” expecting God’s grace to meet us at every step. |
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