How can we demonstrate this love in our church and community activities? Rooted in the Command “ ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” (Mark 12:31) Love’s Non-Negotiables • Our neighbor is anyone God places within reach (Luke 10:29-37). • Love is action, not theory: “Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” (1 John 3:18) • The pattern is Christ’s own sacrificial care: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) Inside the Church Family • Relational warmth – Greet every believer intentionally (Romans 16:16). – Practice listening more than speaking (James 1:19). • Tangible care – Share meals and goods: “All the believers were together and had everything in common.” (Acts 2:44) – Create benevolence funds for members in crisis (Galatians 6:2). • Ongoing encouragement – Send notes, texts, or calls each week (Hebrews 3:13). – Celebrate answered prayer and milestones (Romans 12:15). • Inclusive ministry – Invite every age and background into service teams (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). – Offer rides, translation, or special-needs support so all can gather (Luke 14:13-14). Outward to the Community • Mercy ministries – Stock a food pantry; deliver boxes personally (Isaiah 58:7). – Host free clothing or school-supply drives (Matthew 25:36). • Presence ministries – Visit nursing homes, hospitals, and prisons regularly (Hebrews 13:3). – Coach youth sports or tutor after school as church teams (Titus 3:14). • Hospitality evangelism – Open homes for neighborhood dinners (1 Peter 4:9). – Offer English or citizenship classes with Bible reading (Acts 17:17). • Public good works – Partner in community clean-ups or disaster relief (Matthew 5:16). – Advocate for the unborn, the orphaned, and the trafficked (Proverbs 31:8-9; James 1:27). Guarding the Heart Behind the Deeds • Motive: love for Christ first (Mark 12:30). • Attitude: gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). • Goal: that “all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35) Continual Renewal • Stay devoted to Scripture and prayer so love stays warm (Psalm 119:32). • Confess sin quickly; unforgiveness chills ministry (Ephesians 4:32). • Keep Christ’s return in view—“the night is nearly over” (Romans 13:11-12). Loving our neighbor is not optional or occasional. It is the daily evidence that the gospel we proclaim is the gospel we believe and obey. |
    |