What does Paul's "great sorrow" teach about love for the lost? A Heart That Hurts “ I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart ” (Romans 9:2). What Paul’s Great Sorrow Reveals About Love for the Lost • Love feels the weight of eternal realities. Paul’s grief is intensive because he believes the lost truly face separation from God. • Love is personal, not theoretical. His anguish is “in my heart,” showing authentic, felt compassion—not cold duty (see Romans 10:1). • Love desires salvation more than personal comfort. In Romans 9:3 Paul is willing to be “accursed” if it could mean Israel’s rescue. • Love prays. His sorrow moves him to intercession, not despair (Romans 10:1). • Love acts. The same man who sorrows also preaches, plants churches, and suffers (1 Corinthians 9:19–23). Echoes Across Scripture • Moses models similar self-sacrifice: “But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out” (Exodus 32:32). • Jesus weeps over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41); divine love grieves. • Philippians 3:18—Paul again speaks “with tears” about those who are “enemies of the cross.” • Jude 22—“And indeed, have mercy on those who doubt.” Compassion is commanded. Motivations Grounded in Truth • The gospel’s exclusivity makes evangelistic love urgent (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). • The certainty of judgment heightens sorrow (Hebrews 9:27). • God Himself “is patient…not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9), and Paul mirrors that heart. Practical Takeaways for Believers • Cultivate a tender conscience: regularly meditate on Romans 9:1-3 until hearts are stirred. • Let grief fuel prayer lists for family, friends, and nations. • Translate compassion into conversation: share Christ clearly, patiently, consistently. • Embrace cost: time, reputation, and comfort are willingly laid down for souls. • Celebrate every conversion; joy and sorrow coexist until all who will believe have believed. In Summary Paul’s “great sorrow” is not weakness but love in its purest form—love that feels, prays, speaks, and sacrifices so the lost might be found. |
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