Fully Known, Fully Loved
Key Scripture: 1 John 3:1-3
In Pastor Jp’s sermon titled “Fully Known, Fully Loved,” we are invited to delve into the profound truth of God’s love as described in 1 John 3:1-3. This passage serves as the foundation for understanding our identity in Christ and the transformative power of being fully known and fully loved by God.
The Lavish Love of God
- 1 John 3:1 emphasizes the extravagant nature of God’s love, describing it as “lavished” upon us. This love is not measured or limited; it is abundant and overwhelming, akin to a never-ending waterfall.
- God’s love is not contingent upon our performance or actions. It is based on His heart and character, offering us a secure identity as His children.
Overcoming Fear and Insecurity
- Many people struggle with the fear that being truly known means risking rejection. However, the sermon reassures us that God’s love is unconditional.
- In a world that often demands performance for acceptance, God’s love liberates us from the need to earn approval. We are not striving for acceptance; we are living from it.
Our Identity in Christ
- As described in 1 John 3:2, our identity as children of God anchors us in His love, not in our achievements or failures.
- The sermon highlights that our past is forgotten, and we are made new in Christ, allowing us to live a life filled with joy and purpose.
Living in Freedom
- 1 John 3:3 calls us to purify ourselves as a response to God’s love, not as a means to earn it. This purification is about reflecting God’s love through our lives.
- Sanctification, or the process of becoming more like Christ, is motivated by gratitude rather than guilt. It involves saying “no” to sin and “yes” to the life-giving way of Jesus.
Practical Steps to Embrace God’s Love
- Daily Surrender: Begin each day by affirming your identity as a child of God, seeking to reflect His love in all you do.
- Mindful Choices: Before committing to actions or decisions, consider whether they reflect Christ’s love and purity.
- Quick Repentance: When you stumble, turn to God quickly, embracing His mercy and continuing forward in His love.
Conclusion
The sermon concludes with a call to action, encouraging individuals to embrace the truth that they are fully known and fully loved by God. This identity frees us from fear and empowers us to live out the Gospel in a world that desperately needs it.
For those seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus, the altar is open as a place of prayer and commitment, where one can find the assurance of being fully known and fully loved by God.