Sunday, February 21, 2021
Pastor Mike Bailey
Introduction
Love is estimated to be the subject of over 100 million songs. Since the early 1960s, over 60% of songs written were about love and relationships. Authors have written more than 130 million books on the subject of love. Love is both a verb and a noun. It is both something to obtain and something to demonstrate through actions. Some people would categorize it as the most important thing to seek out in life. Love can bring ultimate joy and the greatest pain to a person. The most popular scripture in the world, John 3:16, is built upon the subject of love. Since the beginning of time mankind has intellectually, spiritually, physically and emotionally wrestled with the subject and meaning of love. Through Scripture, God gives us the final verdict on love. He tells us what love is, why it is so important and how we should act upon it.
- Love is . (v. 4a)
- It is .
Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. – Ephesians 4:2
But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently. –Romans 8:25
Notes:
b. It is .
Definition: The quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.
Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. – Ephesians 4:32
Notes:
2. Love is . (v. 4b)
a. It is not .
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. – Philippians 2:3
Notes:
b. It is not .
Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back. – Proverbs 29:11
Notes:
3. Love is . (v. 5)
BONUS: THE ESSENCE OF ALL SIN IS SELFISHNESS.
a. It is .
To speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. – Titus 3:2 (ESV)
Notes:
b. It is .
Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. – Colossians 3:13
Notes:
4. Love is . (v. 6)
a. It opposes .
If you love me, obey my commandments. – John 14:15
We know we love God’s children if we love God and obey his commandments. – 1 John 5:2
Notes:
b. It rejoices in .
And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. – John 8:32
Notes:
5. Love is .
Love is the purest definition of the newfound life we receive in a relationship with Jesus Christ. “It NEVER gives up, NEVER loses faith, ALWAYS finds hope, and ENDURES every circumstance.”
Closing: Will you find victory in your life today in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ?