THEME: I Am Fifth
Series: Branded!
TITLE: The Book of Love
Scripture: I John 3: 11-18
I. THE UNDENIABLE EVIDENCE OF LIFE
What was the difference between Abel’s sacrifice and Cain’s?
(Faith) is always the response to God’s Word of promise and command. God revealed His will to the brothers. Abel responded in faith and Cain did not.
Proverbs 21:3: “To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”
“For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it’ you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” Ps.51: 16-17
II. THE UNDENIABLE EVIDENCE OF LOVE
Verse 16 affirms and confirms for us that (genuine love) is the outstanding mark of the Christian life.
“Greater love has no man than this, than a man would lay down his life for his brother.’
This gives way to something we try to avoid but need to give serious thought to: the whole issue of (surrender).
“Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.” I Sam.15:22
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose.” Jim Elliott
NEXT WEEK: Series: Branded! (I John)
Sermon: The Act of Love- Isaiah 52:13-53:12
