In this concluding message we discover that love traffics in the truth, tells the truth (even if it is unpopular), and lives the truth. We also learn that love is tenacious. How so?
‘Love doesn’t keep score’ is how The Message translates the final phrase in verse five. What are some ways we tend to ‘keep score’ in our relationships? Why do we tend to ‘keep score?’ What are some ways we can avoid ‘keeping score?’
Tina Turner sang about love being “a second hand emotion” and “a sweet old fashioned notion.” Biblically, nothing could be further from the Truth. Love is practical and concrete. Love does not envy (which chokes the life energy out of relationships). How can we protect ourselves from envy?
The term “love” in our English speaking culture is clearly a fuzzy, hazy word. After all, we can say we “love” our spouse and family; and also say we “love” chocolate cake, “love” being organized, or “love” a particular movie. The Greek language ( the language of the New Testament ) in contrast had several terms for love. Why different words? Well…
1 Corinthian chapter 13 has been widely quoted and recited. It has often been a core element of wedding ceremonies. Why do these verses “suddenly” appear in chapter 13 of this letter? What is the backdrop? What can we learn about love?
For a Jesus follower, one of our greatest needs is to be re-amazed by the Gospel. Indeed, the Gospel is divinely designed to catalyze a daily attitude of worship; to energize our drive to serve God; to stimulate our desire to share the Gospel with others. Let’s celebrate by looking at one of the five most popular Psalms-Psalm 103.
What response must a person have to the Gospel? There’s plenty of confusing “Christianese” floating around out there. Let’s allow Jesus and the Scripture speak. Also, how is the Gospel designed to catalyze a daily attitude of worship; to energize our drive to serve God; to stimulate our desire to share the Gospel with others?
Whether we are aware or not, every one of us is in desperate need of a Rescuer. The reason why is that we face two significant complications that have eternal ramifications. Jesus came to planet Earth to be our Rescuer! Plus, the Gospel is designed to be a regular motivator in our life.
One motivation for this series is to clarify the most important truth in the universe. Some have never heard of the Gospel. Others have heard the term but are unsure what it is. Others still are unclear not only on what it means, but also why it is necessary and how one can embrace it.
Often when we find ourselves looking adverse circumstances in the face, we tend to become self focused and spiritually near-sighted. Also, the decisions we make, make us. There are lessons for us here!