God’s Love - Inside and Outside

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.

John 13:35

Today marks the close of our Love Connection Sermon and Bible Study Series and what a series it has been! I am a series preacher and I plan several series in advance, so when the Holy Spirit gave me this theme a few months ago, I must admit, I had no idea how it would take shape. This series was a far cry from the roses and chocolate associated with romantic notions of love. From the start, this examination and exploration of love challenged us, individually and collectively, to be more Christ-like, particularly as it relates to how we connect and relate to one another within the body of Christ.

Love is the foremost distinguishing characteristic and quality of Christ’s disciples. Jesus said we would be known for the way in which love is exhibited and evidenced in our lives. Who we are as disciples is not about outward signifiers of Christianity, but the love of God on the inside, working on the outside as we love one another.

In that way, love is also the primary method for witnessing to others. When we demonstrate love for one another, we model God’s love. When we demonstrate love for one another, we lift up Jesus. When we demonstrate love for one another, we witness to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. When we demonstrate love for one another, God uses our love to draw others into loving relationship with Him.

In Christ’s Love,

Pastor Donna Olivia Owusu-Ansah