It is clear from Peter’s admonition that God will not make us better people against our own will, or without our interest and effort. “Make every effort” said the apostle (2 Pet. 1:5). Are we really trying to better ourselves? Not just for self-satisfaction, but for God’s cause and his favor? For our eternal benefit?
“Now about brotherly love we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. And in fact, you do love all the brothers throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers, to do so more and more” (1 Thess. 4:9-10). Once again Paul uses agape and philadelphia almost interchangeably. What a beautiful word, philadelphia. What a beautiful concept. During Paul’s brief evangelistic campaign in Thessalonica, he stressed both agape love and brotherly love as essential elements of the Christian life (Acts 17). From Paul’s comments it is obvious they were truly practicing love in their congregation and throughout the entire province. What if all Christians in all congregations would do the same? Imagine what true love would do for our country, and for the world!
Cameron Road is a loving church. Yet, there is always room for improvement. We love one another now but we must increase that love. Let us determine now to heed the admonitions of both Peter and Paul and love one another sincerely and deeply. We must not let petty things or politics divide us. Do not let yourself be caught up in the world’s ways. Stay tuned…
To be a child of God is the greatest privilege we have, but we also have responsibility. May God bless us all as we work with his Spirit to develop the character the Father expects of his children. TC
