Many believers approach love as though it were primarily a matter of effort. We see impatience, irritation or unforgiveness in our hearts and conclude that we simply need to try harder. Yet the New Testament points us to a deeper source.
John does not say, “Love one another because you have sufficient strength.” He says:
“Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:11
The command to love is rooted in the experience of being loved.
When Peter became aware of Christ’s patience with him, his heart was changed. When Paul grasped the mercy shown to the chief of sinners, his life became one of sacrificial love. The love they showed was not self-generated. It was a response to grace.
This is why contemplation of Christ is not a distraction from practical Christianity. It is the source of practical Christianity.
Consider Him:
- Patient with slow learners.
- Gentle with the broken.
- Merciful to the fallen.
- Faithful to the weak.
- Sacrificial towards His enemies.
As we behold Him, we begin to resemble Him.
Paul expresses this beautifully:
“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory…” 2 Corinthians 3:18
Notice the order. We behold, then we are changed.
This has significant implications for church life. When love grows cold, the ultimate solution is not merely more teaching on relationships, conflict resolution or community. The deeper need is a fresh vision of Christ. A congregation captivated by Christ will increasingly reflect His character.
The question therefore is not simply, “Am I loving others enough?”
The deeper question is, “Am I dwelling upon Christ enough?”
For the love of Christ is not merely our example. It is our supply. The branch does not strain to produce fruit. It abides in the vine, and the fruit follows. In the same way, Christian love is not merely imitation of Christ. It is the overflow of communion with Christ.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk