1. Initiated by the Father (note: v. 1)
* The standards, the way of life, it all starts first with God. We did not first choose to love God, he first loved us.
* Imitation is a sign of secure attachment, when children feel emotionally connected to their parents, they naturally want to mirror their behavior, speech and even attitudes, it’s a way of saying ‘I belong to you’.
2. Illustrated by the Son (note: v. 2)
* Definition of Love: Love is an act of the will accompanied by emotion that leads to action on behalf of its object.
* We’re dearly beloved children who are called to be imitators, we walk in love because this is what our example Jesus did. (note: John 13:31-35)
3. Ignited by the Spirit (note: Acts 1:8)
* The Holy Spirit dwells in you richly. This is why the Scripture constantly exhorts to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
* You don’t have to worry about somehow making yourself into this loving self-sacrificing person, the Spirit does that. You have to worry about surrendering and giving yourself to the Spirit.
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4. Putting it into Practice
* In order to be known for our mission, it first has to be who we are. It’s why it’s important that we get practical about what it means to walk in love, and to be the church, and how our relationships with one another proceed.
So now what?
* Take one step: invite someone to church, join a Grow Group, or serve in a ministry. That’s how we show the world we’re His disciples, and it’s how we bring a smile to God’s face.
