Moment With The Master
“Power of God’s Love”
Categories: Moment With The Master"For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; (2 Corinthians 5:14)
The life of the apostle Paul was wholly given to the important ministry of reconciliation. (II Corinthians 5:18) Man’s eternal destiny was foremost in his mind. The wonderful possibilities offered by Jesus prompted Paul to zealous work. Paul’s example should inspire us to that same ministry.
Paul was motivated by the terrifying prospect of judgment (II Corinthians 5:10) and by the love of Christ. (II Corinthians 5:14) It was the later, the love Christ has, that constrained Paul. “Constrained” means to be totally controlled. We must also be brought under the power of Christ’s love.
Perhaps it was the objects of Christ’s love that so motivated Paul. Jesus’ love is so comprehensive that it reaches his friends (John 15:13), his enemies (Romans 5:8-10), and even to all mankind (John 3:16). Jesus even loved a scoundrel like Paul who had wanted to destroy the influence of Christ! Remarkably, he loves me too!
The love of Christ must wholly influence our lives. The very next verse says, “He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15) Knowing that I am the object of his sacrificial love must inspire me to refrain from self-indulgence. His love must sway me to honor Him with a blameless life, by imitating His character, by submitting to His will, and by seeking to extend the borders of His kingdom.
The power of Jesus’ love will be seen in the life of every faithful disciple of Jesus. It was seen in Paul, Peter, Stephen, and other early saints who encountered the persecution and bravely persevered. It was manifested by holy lives of those who were touched.
There is no more noble purpose for man than to live for the One who died for him, and rose again. No greater prize given than the eternal home He promises.
George Slover
