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No Real Love Without God

Sermon by John O. Reid

God's love, as defined in this discussion, is a willful direction toward mankind, involving doing what is best for them, not merely what they desire. This love is reflected in benevolence, kindness, sympathy, and generosity, as God deals with us individually while pursuing a grand, philanthropic plan to elevate humanity into His Kingdom. True love originates from God, and as we exhibit it, we take on the nature of our Father, demonstrating that we are born of Him. Those who fail to reflect this love do not truly know God, regardless of their knowledge. The world often misunderstands love, seeing it as deep devotion, sexual passion, or mere enjoyment of activities, while God's love surpasses these limited definitions. His love is proven by the world He has provided, the patience He shows, and most profoundly, by sending His Son as a sacrifice for our reconciliation with Him. Even when we were ignorant and opposed to His way, He loved us and desired the best for us. We are called to love one another as God loves us, laying down our lives for the brethren, just as He laid down His life for us. By actively using this love in our relationships, it is perfected in us, and we grow in His nature, becoming bold in His presence as we mirror His character. Perfect love casts out fear, and though we may struggle with apprehensions in this world, we must work to perfect our love, faith, and trust in God, knowing He will help us. Jesus Christ taught that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, submitting all our faculties to His will and devoting ourselves to glorifying Him. This love is shown directly through obedience to the first four commandments, which involve having no other gods, rejecting idols, honoring His name in all aspects of life, and keeping the Sabbath as holy time for spiritual refreshment and service. The second great commandment is to love our neighbor as ourselves, extending this love to all—family, friends, countrymen, and even enemies. We show this love by not harming our neighbor in body, property, or reputation, by seeking their good, and by being tender and kind, even when their actions do not warrant it, without condoning sin. Attaining God's nature requires keeping His commandments with active faith, trust, and obedience, drawing close to Him through prayer, fasting, and study. Love of God produces a desire to live His way, and His commandments are not burdensome but essential boundaries that train us to become like Him. True love in the heart is reflected in our way of living, showing that we belong to Him. Above all, we must put on godly love, forgiving others as He has forgiven us, uniting all aspects of His calling and opening our minds to emulate Him.

The Fruit of the Spirit: Love

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

Love is the first fruit of the Spirit, the one trait of God that exemplifies His character. The Bible defines love as both what it is and what it does.

Love's Basic Definition

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Love is not a feeling, but an action—defined as keeping God's commandments, the only means by which we can possibly know Him, leading to eternal life.

The Defense Against Offense

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

The Bible states that offenses will come. Here are ways to handle offenses and keep minor irritations from growing into bitterness.

Patriotism, the Summer Soldier, and Our Times (Part Two)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

In terms of patriotism to God's Kingdom, Jesus set the standard higher than anyone else, sacrificing His life for everyone, even before the Father called them.

Civility and Courtesy

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Societal incivility, discourtesy, and in-your-face attitudes (works of the flesh) have manifested themselves in the church of God, but contradict agape.

The Parable of the Leaven, Expanded

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Bitterness divides one member of Christ's Body from another. Individuals often look for a 'doctrinal' reason to justify leaving a congregation.

Childrearing (Part Four)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Children do not initiate love but reflect it. If a child does not receive a convincing demonstration of this love, he will not become a conductor of love.

Flee From Idolatry (Part One): Self-Discipline

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Though Paul's spiritual credentials outstripped all of his coworkers, Paul used none of his rights as an apostle, but gave his life as a sacrifice.

What's in the Bucket? (Part Four)

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned Parenthood, considered the black race inferior, and sought a way to reduce it. The black population is beginning to die out.

Giving a Gift Strengthens and Bonds

Sermonette by Martin G. Collins

Giving a gift strengthens the bond between individuals, bringing about a warm feeling in the giver toward the one receiving the gift.

The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Man With Dropsy

Bible Study by Martin G. Collins

Jesus deliberately heals a man with dropsy on the Sabbath. He was teaching the people an unmistakable lesson about the purpose of the Sabbath day.