“LOVING OTHERS”

Sunday, August 1, 2010

TEXT: Matthew 22:36-40

INTRO: In this message, we’re going to focus on the second part of our mission statement – Loving others.

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF LOVE.

A. It’s the 2^nd greatest commandment (Matt. 22:36-40).

B. It’s greater than supernatural gifts (1Cor. 13:1-3).

     1. Tongues without love is just making noise (v. 1).

     2. Moving in revelation gifts and faith without love

          means nothing (v. 2).

     3. Giving generously to the poor and suffering

          persecution without love  does little good (v. 3).

C. It’s greater than faith and hope (1Cor. 13:13).

D. It’s the primary evidence of being a disciple of Jesus (Jn.

     13:34-35). What is your love telling others?

E. It should be our motive for ministry (1Cor. 13:1-3; Matt.

     14:14).

F. It will lead to more miracles (Gal. 5:6b).

II. THE HINDRANCES TO LOVE.

●Assume you’re not as loving as you think you are!

Most people think they’re more loving then they are.

A. A deficient experience of God’s love (1Jn. 4:7-12, 16, 20-21).

B. Our own dysfunction.

C. Ignorance (Hos. 4:6a).

D. A selfish lifestyle (Phil. 2:3-4; Jn. 15:12-13).

     1. An unwillingness to make the time.

     2. An unwillingness to take the risks.

     3. An unwillingness to be that transparent &  vulnerable.

E. Blind spots.

     1. We unknowingly say and do things that don’t

          communicate love to others.

     2. We’re not aware of our lack of skills to love and

          communicate love.

CONCLUSION: How are you doing at loving others? How relationally connected are you at Jubilee? Will you make the time, take the risks and be transparent and vulnerable?