Summary of my sermon, based on 1 John 3:11-18. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on February 26, 2023.
Japan, known for its reputation of friendliness, often confuses politeness with genuine friendliness. However, behind the facade, Japan can be an unfriendly place, evidenced by the rising rates of loneliness and unattended deaths. In a society where indifference can prevail, the call to love and serve one another becomes crucial.
The “ethic of reciprocity” is a principle found in various religions and cultures. While most versions express the negative form of “do not do to others what you don’t want done to yourself,” Jesus presents it positively: “do to others what you would have them do to you.” However, it is important to consider the full context of this teaching, as it sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Love One Another
Jesus emphasizes the command to love one another as a significant test of discipleship. The phrase “love your neighbor as yourself” complements the Golden Rule, extending beyond passive avoidance of harm to active love and service. The ethic of reciprocity sets a low bar, whereas Jesus calls us to a higher standard.
The message heard from the beginning, which encompasses the Gospel, emphasizes the call to love one another. Love becomes the outpouring of the Gospel, a mark of discipleship, and a reflection of God’s love for the world. It is not just an intellectual belief but a heartfelt action rooted in the message of salvation.
John links love for others with the assurance of eternal life. By demonstrating love for our brothers and sisters, we bear witness to our transformed lives. John contrasts this with the negative example of Cain, emphasizing that hatred and murder are incompatible with the eternal life found in Christ.
Serve One Another
Following Jesus’ example of sacrificial love, we are called to lay down our lives for one another. Love is demonstrated through service, going beyond mere words to tangible deeds. This sacrificial love is illustrated by Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for humanity while we were still sinners.
Jesus emphasizes that love involves sacrificial service. The command to love one another is coupled with the highest form of love—a willingness to lay down one’s life for friends. Christ’s death for sinners exemplifies the depth of God’s love, serving as a model for our love towards others.
Love is not confined to words alone; it requires practical action. We are called to bear one another’s burdens and generously share what we have. Such acts of service and generosity align with the law of Christ and please God.
While the “ethic of reciprocity” provides a baseline for human interaction, Jesus sets a higher standard through the command to love one another. Love becomes the outpouring of the Gospel, assurance of eternal life, and a call to sacrificial service. In a world marked by loneliness and indifference, let us embrace the transformative power of love, fulfilling the commandments of Christ and reflecting God’s love to others.
Excel Still More 