How can we demonstrate God's love if "no one has ever seen God"? The Unseen God and the Visible Witness “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God remains in us, and His love is perfected in us.” (1 John 4:12) Love Rooted in God’s Nature • God is love (1 John 4:8). • His very character moves Him toward self-giving action (John 3:16). • When His Spirit indwells believers, that same love becomes our new nature (Romans 5:5). Where Love Comes From: The Indwelling Spirit • At salvation, the Holy Spirit takes up residence (1 Corinthians 6:19). • The Spirit produces the fruit of love (Galatians 5:22). • Abiding in Christ keeps the flow of love fresh (John 15:4-5, 9). Practical Ways to Make the Invisible God Visible • Sacrificial Service — meeting needs even when inconvenient (Luke 10:33-35). • Radical Forgiveness — canceling debts because Christ canceled ours (Ephesians 4:32). • Generous Giving — sharing resources without spotlight (Matthew 6:3-4). • Truth in Love — speaking honestly yet gently (Ephesians 4:15). • Hospitality — opening homes and schedules (Romans 12:13). • Compassion for the Vulnerable — defending widows, orphans, and the poor (James 1:27). • Unity Across Differences — embracing ethnic, social, and generational diversity (Colossians 3:11-14). • Enduring Kindness Under Pressure — blessing persecutors, not cursing (Romans 12:14). Scriptural Snapshots of Visible Love • John 13:34-35 “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so also you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” • Matthew 5:16 “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • 1 John 3:18 “Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” • 1 Peter 4:8 “Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” • Colossians 3:14 “And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity.” Guardrails for Authentic Love • Anchored in Truth — never compromise doctrine for sentiment (2 John 1:6-9). • Sourced in God’s Glory — seek His approval, not applause (Matthew 6:1). • Fueled by the Gospel — remember we love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). • Tested by Consistency — love both friends and enemies (Luke 6:35). Finish Strong—Living Proof Every Day Each act of Spirit-empowered love turns an unseen God into a seen reality for our neighbors. As we abide, obey, and overflow, His love is perfected in us, and the world catches a glimpse of the Father they cannot yet see. |
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