HOW CAN WE LOVE THE LOST IF WE CAN’T LOVE THE FOUND?
DR AVITUS LEONARD
Abstract
This paper explores the critical relationship between loving the found and reaching the lost, arguing that a divided and unloving Church is fundamentally incapable of effectively engaging with those outside its community. As Jesus instructed in John 13:34-35, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." This scripture highlights that internal love among believers serves as a testimony to the world. The paper also examines 1 John 4:20, which states, "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar," emphasizing that claims of divine love are undermined by a lack of love toward fellow believers. Further, Galatians 6:2 instructs, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfil the law of Christ," demonstrating the importance of mutual support within the Church. Matthew 28:19 calls Christians to "go and make disciples of all nations," reinforcing that effective outreach is supported by a loving and unified community. Additionally, 1 John 3:17 challenges believers: "If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?" By fostering a thriving, loving internal environment, the Church enhances its capacity to fulfil its mission and demonstrate the gospel's transformative power to those outside its walls. In conclusion, while the mission to save the lost remains a vital priority, it must not overshadow the imperative to nurture and love those within the Church.
Keywords
References
- John 13:34-35 (NIV)
- 1 John 4:20 (NIV)
- Galatians 6:2 (ESV)
- Matthew 28:19 (NIV)
- 1 John 3:17 (NIV)
- 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 (NIV)
- John 17:21 (NIV)
- 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV)
- Galatians 6:10 (ESV)
- Matthew 23:23 (NIV)
- Mark 12:31 (NIV)
- Matthew 7:3-5 (NIV)
- James 4:1 (NIV)
- Galatians 6:1 (NIV)
- 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
- Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)
- Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
Additional Reading
- Boice, James M. The Gospel According to John. Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 2005.
- Carson, D.A. The Gospel According to John. Leicester: InterVarsity Press, 1991.
- Moo, Douglas J. Galatians. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2013.
- Stott, John. The Cross of Christ. Downers Grove: IVP Books, 2006.
- Wright, N.T. Simply Jesus: A New Vision of Who He Was, What He Did, and Why He Matters. New York: HarperOne, 2011.
- Piper, John. Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist. Sisters: Multnomah Books, 2011.
- Keller, Timothy. The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith. New York: Dutton, 2008.
- Nouwen, Henri J.M. The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming. New York: Doubleday, 1992.
Submitted date:
08/10/2024
Reviewed date:
08/11/2024
Accepted date:
08/11/2024
Publication date:
08/11/2024