Reference

1st John 4:9–12

What does genuine love look like in action? Pastor J draws us into this profound question through a powerful exploration of 1 John 4:9-12, revealing how true love operates as a divine cycle rather than merely a human emotion. Through the compelling metaphor of adoption, he illustrates how God's love always moves first - initiating, pursuing, and transforming lives before we ever take a step toward Him. With pastoral wisdom, Pastor J unpacks how this divine love, demonstrated supremely at the cross, creates an "obligation of grace" in believers' lives. When we truly grasp that we've been loved at such great cost, we can't help but respond by loving others, even when it's difficult. The sermon reaches its crescendo with the beautiful truth that as we live out this costly love in real relationships, God's invisible presence becomes visible - like the sun's effects being seen before it rises above the horizon. Pastor J challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we merely admiring God's love from a distance, or are we actively receiving and extending it to others? The time for response is now - will you allow God's transformative love to work through you today?