SUMMARY: Evidence
OVERVIEW: God demonstrated real love by sending Jesus to die for our sins. He set the ultimate example, and followers of Jesus must respond by loving other believers.
BIG IDEA: Those who love God must also love other believers.
KEY VERSE: 1 John 4:11-12 (John reminding us of our responsibility to love)
Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
There are plenty of false prophets out there. Many will attempt to woo you by their words but look at their lives. Look for evidence that they practice what they preach. The best test is how they treat other believers. It’s easy to love when you want to love and to disregard those you see every day. Don’t live like that. If you love me, you will also love my other children, whether they believe in me or not. Worship me and honor me by treating others with kindness. Go out of your way to display my love.
When you find it difficult—and you will—stop and meditate on the life of Christ. Think deeply about what he did for you. Don’t just reflect on it; get lost in thought. Allow yourself to see, hear, and feel Jesus’ sacrifice. Think about it, sing about it, pray about it, and then live a loving life. You may not be able to do it, but Jesus is with you and wants to live through you. Let him love others through you.
NEXT STEP
Identify a different person (5-7) you can show a tangible expression of love to (card or text, word of encouragement, an act of service) each day over the next week.
LYRIC VIDEO