Lecture on Jesus' Commandment to Love and Practical Applications in Life

Key Points

Introduction

• Emphasis on praising and worshiping God through song lyrics.
• Establishing a connection between worship and daily life.

The Commandment of Love

1. Jesus' New Commandment (John 13:34-35)
   • Jesus gives a new commandment: to love one another as He loves us.
   • Difference from old commandment: Love others as you love yourself.
   • Jesus sets Himself as the standard of love, rather than self-love.

Demonstrating Jesus' Love

1. Kindness

   • Jesus shows kindness without condemnation (Luke 15:1-2).
   • Sinners are drawn to Jesus because of his kindness.
   • Reflection: Are we like magnets for people, showing Christ-like kindness?

2. Never Giving Up on Sinners

   • Parable of the lost sheep and the lost coin (Luke 15:4-10).
   • Jesus searches for the lost and rejoices when they are found.
   • Reflection: Never give up on anyone; there are no hopeless cases.
   • Personal Story: Encounter with an inmate who seemed beyond hope but sought Jesus.

3. Patience and Forgiveness

   • Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32).
   • The father's patient waiting and unconditional forgiveness for the returning son.
   • Reflection: Be patient with those who wrong us and practice forgiveness.

4. Generosity

   • The father in the parable demonstrates unexpected generosity by giving the son a ring, robe, and shoes.
   • Reflection: Be generous even to those who seem undeserving.

Practical Application

1. Kindness and Unconditional Love

   • Romans 2:4 – God's kindness leads to repentance.
   • Reflection: Show unexpected kindness, such as the backpack distribution for 1,000 kids.

2. Inclusivity and Non-Judgmental Attitudes

   • Create a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their past.
   • Be a church and individuals who do not judge but welcome sinners kindly.

3. Forgive and Heal

   • Forgive even when wronged severely; keep no record of wrongs (Proverbs 10:12).
   • Love covers all sins; embody 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 qualities.

Encouragement and Final Thoughts

1. Rely on Jesus as the Source of Love

   • Jesus is not just the standard but also the source of our love (1 John 4:16-19).
   • Love others with the love received from Jesus; He loved us first, enabling us to love others.

2. Actionable Steps

   • Start by sharing meals or sponsoring a backpack as practical expressions of love.
   • Engage in community activities like distribution events to practice love in action.

3. Blessings for the Second Half of the Year

   • Focus on being a blessing to others rather than seeking blessings from God.
   • Surrender talents, abilities, and all aspects of life to God.
   • Pray for protection, prosperity, and stewardship as we commit to God's commandments.

Conclusion

• Recap of Jesus' teachings on love and how to implement them in daily life.
• Encouragement to continue praising God and practicing love as taught by Jesus.

Reflective Questions

• How can I show Christ-like kindness in my daily interactions?
• Who have I given up on and how can I reignite hope for them through Jesus' love?
• In what ways can I practice patience, forgiveness, and generosity in my life?