In what ways can we expand our affections to reflect Christ's love? Key Verse “You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections.” (2 Corinthians 6:12) Understanding Restricted Affections • Paul’s tenderness toward the Corinthians met a cool, guarded response; their hearts had shrunk, not his. • “Affections” (Greek splágchna) speaks of deep inner compassion—the seat of love and mercy. • The problem, then and now, is not lack of opportunity but lack of willingness to love expansively. Christ’s Model for Wide-Open Affections • Commanding love: “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so also you must love one another.” (John 13:34-35) • Demonstrating love: “But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) • Serving love: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45) • Weeping love: Jesus wept over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41), revealing a heart that feels others’ sorrows. Practical Steps to Expand Our Affections • Receive the gospel afresh—only forgiven hearts overflow (Ephesians 3:17-19). • Remove relational barriers—confess, forgive, reconcile (Colossians 3:12-14). • Practice daily intercession—prayer enlarges empathy (Philippians 1:7-8). • Extend tangible hospitality—open homes reflect open hearts (Romans 12:13). • Cross cultural and social lines—reject partiality (James 2:1-4). • Serve sacrificially—love is proven in deeds (1 John 3:16-18). • Speak edifying words—let no corrupt talk shrink another’s spirit (Ephesians 4:29). • Pursue corporate worship—shared awe unites affections (Acts 2:46-47). • Cultivate generosity—where treasure goes, heart follows (Matthew 6:21). • Mentor and be mentored—discipleship multiplies love (2 Timothy 2:2). Guarding Against Narrowed Hearts • Unforgiveness: “See to it… that no bitter root grows up.” (Hebrews 12:15) • Prejudice: partiality disfigures love (James 2:1-4). • Self-absorption: “Serve one another in love.” (Galatians 5:13) • Fear: “Perfect love drives out fear.” (1 John 4:18) • False teaching: “Lovers of self… having a form of godliness but denying its power.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Fruit of Enlarged Affections • Unity that makes Christ visible (John 17:23). • Vibrant fellowship and witness (Acts 2:44-47). • Refreshment for weary saints: “Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.” (Philemon 7) • Enduring joy even in trials (2 Corinthians 7:4). • A compelling aroma of Christ to the world (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). Daily Practice: A Week of Widened Love Day 1: List those you rarely pray for; intercede by name. Day 2: Send a note of encouragement to someone overlooked. Day 3: Invite a new believer or stranger to share a meal. Day 4: Give time or resources anonymously to a need in the church. Day 5: Seek reconciliation with one person you have avoided. Day 6: Volunteer in a ministry outside your comfort zone. Day 7: Celebrate God’s faithfulness with fellow believers, thanking Him for every evidence of growing love. |
    |