Sep. 01
Sermon Outline
THE LABOR OF LOVE
1 John 3:11-18
Introduction:On Labor Day weekend we honor and celebrate the work and achievements of workers in American history.God created us to work, produce and be stewards of the earth.There is another labor that is “greatest” of all work.
“We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thessalonians 13:13
“But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13
I.THE EXHORATION TO LOVE (v. 11)
A.God Commands Us to Love
1.From the beginning
2.Love is a choice
B.Cain:a Negative Example (v. 12)
C.Jesus Gives a “New Command” to Love
1.Love is evidence of genuine faith
2.Hate is a characteristic of those without Christ
II.THE EXAMPLE OF LOVE (v. 16)
A.Jesus Is Our Supreme Example of Love (v. 16)
B.Love is Sacrificial
III.THE EVIDENCE OF LOVE
A.Love Those in Need With Action and in Truth
B.Love is Practical
Conclusion:Love is a labor that produces spiritual fruit and invests in eternity.Where are places in our lives, in the world and in the church where the “labor of love” can be applied?Love testifies to the world we really belong to Jesus.
