The More Excellent Way - Ian Robson
Watch the live stream of the Sunday service from CFC Bangalore. For more information, please visit www.cfcindia.com.
Summary
The message emphasizes that the ultimate goal for believers is to pursue love, which is described as the 'more excellent way' according to 1 Corinthians 13. This pursuit of love is necessary for true spiritual growth, allowing believers to become more like God the Father by continually seeing and knowing Jesus Christ. The speaker encourages the congregation to live in a way that reflects the glory and character of God.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The still more excellent wayPaul points past the spiritual gifts to a still more excellent way, which is the pursuit of love described in 1 Corinthians 13.
Jesus reveals the FatherEverything Jesus did on earth was designed to manifest his Father's character and love so that we might become like our Father in heaven.John 2:18
Manifesting His glory through life's eventsFrom turning water to wine to raising Lazarus, Jesus manifested the glory of God to strengthen the disciples' faith and reveal the Father's heart.John 2:11
Pouring out our costliest possessionMary breaking the alabaster box of costly perfume teaches us to hold nothing back and value the love of Jesus above all else, filling our homes with His fragrance.
Washing the disciples' feetJesus laid aside His garments, took a towel, and washed His disciples' feet, giving an example that we should serve one another out of supreme love.John 13:4
Having the mind of ChristJust as Christ emptied Himself and took the form of a bondservant, we must relinquish our rights and reputation to walk in true obedience.Philippians 2:6
Four essential lessons to learnJesus explicitly commands us to learn compassion over sacrifice, gentleness, humility, and self-emptying servanthood.Matthew 9:12
Spiritual gifts without love amount to zeroEven impressive gifts like tongues, prophecy, mountain-moving faith, and martyrdom are meaningless if practiced without divine love.
Remaining in steadfast loveUnlike worldly notions of falling in and out of love, biblical love is a steadfast anchor that remains faithful until death.
The compassion of the Good SamaritanThe Good Samaritan demonstrated true love and compassion across racial divides, proving that love acts practically to bind up the wounded.
Character over outward works at judgmentJesus warns that many who perform dramatic works will be rejected, while those filled with compassion and love will inherit the kingdom.
Father, glorify Your nameJesus's lifelong and ultimate prayer through every trial and suffering was that the Father would glorify His name.John 12:28
If you would believe, you will see God's gloryIn the grief of Martha and Mary over Lazarus, Jesus reminds them that believing through difficult circumstances brings forth the glory of God.
Purpose behind our trialsGod allows trials for a divine purpose, working behind the scenes so that many might come to believe and His name be glorified.
