As we endeavor to get into our theme for the year: “Learning To Love Like Jesus” there are many things that we must consider as we examine the things that make up what being a “Disciple of Jesus Christ” really means. So, let us examine the Word of God in order to more exactly understand and execute the teachings of the Holy Scriptures, which shall reveal to each of us just what areas we need to pray about in order to allow the Holy Spirit to lead us into this deeper and more profound love for one another, which Jesus said will be our most effective tool of evangelism! (John 13:35) By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
Old Testament Scripture Reading: Psalms 19:7 – 14 (KJV)
Psa 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. Psa 19:8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. Psa 19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. Psa 19:10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Psa 19:11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. Psa 19:12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults. Psa 19:13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Psa 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
New Testament Scripture Reading: Ephesians 3:14 – 21 (KJV) Eph 3:14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Eph 3:15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, Eph 3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; Eph 3:17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, Eph 3:18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; Eph 3:19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Eph 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Eph 3:21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
Transforming Power Statements:
1) The word of God is the “only” means by which “Disciples” (i.e. learners from Jesus) can acquire the knowledge of God which has been given to produce in the believer the convictions to become righteous in reality as a direct result of having received “Perfect Righteousness” as a free gift by faith in the finished work of Christ Jesus, Who alone has satisfied God for all who trust in Him.
2) The Psalmist King David, gives facts about the transforming power of God’s eternal Word that contains all the power required for each believer to be transformed from defeat to victory in every area of this life, which has only ever been perfectly performed by God’s Son, Jesus the Messiah, Who now calls each “disciple” to come under His perfect covering and be taught to “Love Just Like He Does”!
3) The Apostle Paul who is one of the greatest examples of one who made the transition from “hating the Church” to “Loving the Church” (like Jesus does); realized that this love can only be attained through much sincere prayer and understanding guided by the Holy Spirit of God Who indwells each and every disciple who has believed in Jesus for providing COMPLETE salvation, and His HOLY SPIRIT to execute God’s work of transformation in all by the renewing of our minds. (Romans 12:1 – 2) Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.