Proclaiming the Full Purpose Of God - Bangalore Conference 2012
Summary
The sermon emphasizes that the core of Christian life is abiding in God's love, mirroring the unconditional love Christ showed, even to Judas. True discipleship requires a commitment to love others consistently, like Ruth loving Naomi until the end, and maintaining this love despite personal difficulty or disagreement. Ultimately, believers are called to live by God's grace and hope, recognizing that our ability to love perfectly comes from the Holy Spirit, not our own strength.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
As He is, so are we in this worldWhen we read scriptures about being like Jesus, it connects directly to walking and abiding in the love that God first showed us.
Loving without expecting anything in returnGod did not wait for us to love Him or clean up our lives first; He loved sinners and loved them until the end.
The determination of Ruth compared to OrpahWhen given a choice, Ruth showed fierce determination to stay with Naomi and follow God, whereas Orpah turned back to her old life.
Abraham and Lot's diverging pathsWhile Abraham trusted God and remained in fellowship, Lot chose the broad way toward Sodom, yet Abraham still interceded for Lot in his trouble.
The privilege and responsibility of intercessionHaving godly people intercede for us is a great privilege that carries the responsibility to live up to God's expectations.
Jesus ever lives to make intercessionBecause Jesus always lives to make intercession for those who draw near to God, we can find help when we struggle to love others.
The love of God poured into our heartsIn tribulation, the love of God is poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, keeping our hope from being put to shame.
Why disciples turn backJust as some disciples left Jesus when hard teachings came and they judged Him through mere human knowledge, people today may fall away from fellowship.
Are we part of the building or just scaffolding?Many people act like scaffolding in the church during construction, but they face disappointment if they are not truly built into the house of God.
Walking at the Lord's paceJesus graciously slows down to walk with us at our current level of growth, just as He walked with the disciples on the road to Emmaus.
Bearing the fruit of acceptance and loveGod looks for the fruit of patience, kindness, and genuine acceptance in our homes and fellowships, rather than harsh rejection.
Seeing our brothers instead of walking in darknessFailing to love our brother means we are walking in thick spiritual darkness, unable to truly see and meet their needs.
A determined heart to love firstWith a determined heart, we can choose to love first without demanding that others love us first, letting God's love be perfected in us.
