AGAPE LOVE

Bible References: John 13:35, Romans 13:10, John 15: 9–10, Luke 5:32

Love is the greatest gift of God to man. He loves us that He made us in His own likeness. He created us to fit into His image and gave us dominion over all other creatures both living and non–living. Sin however separated us from Him but with His divine love, He redeemed us from the fall with the sacrifice of His only begotten son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16).  He was made to suffer and died for the sins He did not commit. He is the same God, ever loving father.

Beloved, we need to replicate the love of Christ for us. Agape love is the natural and the greatest love of God towards man. Agape love is unconditional. It is accompanied by motivation and voluntary action to make others have freedom with no intention to gain. Ephesians 5: 1 -2 says “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us and hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour”.

Brethren, we need to demonstrate Agape love in our Christian race especially to our creator (Matthew 22:37), to our neighbours (Matthew 22: 39), to unbelievers and those that are losing faith (Matthew 5: 43 – 46). We need to help those that are backsliding, not to judge or criticize them but with wisdom, win them back to the fold. Jesus sacrificed for all, regardless of our sinful nature. Different social groups will ensure they keep their group members and if only one should leave, they follow up with all possible means to return him or her to the group. As Christians, we should demonstrate Christ-like love towards all and follow up lost sheep. In the parable of the lost sheep, the Lord told us of how the shepherd looked out for the only one lost, not minding the ninety and nine (99) sheep that were remaining (Matthew 18:10 -14, Luke 15: 1–7).

We must demonstrate love in our homes, so that we can be an example to our neighbours. Christians must obey God and His will even if it is not our wishes and not easy. The Bible emphasized it in Matthew 24:12 that at the end of time, the love of many will wax cold but as believers, we should watch and also ensure that we extend much of agape love to our brethren. We should show love in our words and actions, directly and indirectly. May God help us to fulfill the great commission (Matthew 28:16–20) as He instructed us in Jesus name. Amen.