Biblical Love: An Expression of Goodness and Care (Matthew 5:43-48)

Biblical Love: An Expression of Goodness and Care (Matthew 5:43-48)

I. Introduction

  • Defined as “an expression of goodness and care.”
  • Three key aspects of Biblical love:
    1. Love is a Choice
    2. Love is not selfish
    3. Love can run cold

II. Love is a Choice

  • Love as a deliberate choice.
  • Genesis 3:6 – The choice of Adam and Eve.
  • Exodus 20:6 – God’s enduring love and mercy.
  • Choosing to love aligns us with God’s will.

III. Love is not Selfish

  • 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 – The “Love Chapter.”
  • Characteristics of true love:
    • Love is patient
    • Love is kind
    • Love does not envy
    • Love does not boast
    • Love is not proud
    • Love does not dishonour others
    • Love is not self-seeking
    • Love is not easily angered
    • Love keeps no record of wrongs
    • Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth
    • Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres
  • True love seeks the welfare of others.

IV. Love Can Run Cold

  • Revelation 2:4 – Forsaking first love.
  • Revelation 3:19 – The call to repentance.
  • The importance of nurturing and maintaining love.

Conclusion

  • Biblical love as a powerful and transformative force.
  • A daily choice, a selfless act, and a commitment.
  • Striving to embody divine love in our lives.