We read from Paul that knowledge puffs one up with pride, but love edifies, or builds others up, according to their needs. I see this time and time again. Those who think they know it all, or who come across that way even as Christians, do not promote the love of God in Christ Jesus. But those who love really begin to get it, even when off in some matters- and aren't we all.
I see time and time again, within the spirit of love found in Jesus, a fellowship that is living, growing and open to the grace and truth found in our Lord. Though it does seem more often than not, and in most circles, though not all, to be an uphill struggle.
It is interesting the contrast Paul brings up here. There is knowledge on the one hand, having all the answers, and knowing better than the rest. Then there's love: listening to others, knowing one does not have all the answers and even with the answers one has, that they are entirely dependent on God, in need of others, and don't get it as God does or fully. It's a humility that is glad to be taught of God from the most simple and humble servant of the Lord. Willing even to learn from the lips of a child.
It's about the love of God that is in Jesus and therefore among God's people. And as Paul is saying, it's a love that is ready to leave behind one's own freedom in regard to nonessential things, that the one thing needful might be promoted. Sitting together at the feet of the Lord, by the Spirit, and learning from each other. And therefore, in love, building each other up, as each one humbly does their part.
What might you like to add to this?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
14 comments:
I do not have anything to add excpet that it was very refreshing to read. That is what i like about your posts. they always seem to edify and encourage. peace ted.
Happy New Year Ted!
I really liked your posting. I have an uphill struggle and the one thing that really does not help in the searching and seeking, is the lack of humility of a certain type of Christian that knows the lot, is privvy to the mind of God and is constantly asking you 'if your are saved'.
I think it is about time we took over Martin's home again.
Love Lorenzo.
Ted,
Excellent post.
I personally have been humbled by God. When I have thought that I had all the knowledge or all the answers God humbled me. I have also seen that in others as well. I have come to the understand as a minister of the word to tell someone ,"I don't know." I rather say, "I don't know", than to say the wrong thing or give the wrong answer. I do know that the love of God always encourages even in our darkest hours and moments and I lead them to the God who loves and understands their problems. I tell them of a God who cares and loves them unconditionally. Paul knew this more than anyone else. I believe that is what allowed Paul and Silas to sing praises in prison. It is what allowed Paul to say I am content in any and every situation. He new the love that God had for him and his life. Even though we may not have all the knowledge as God says, "My ways are not your way or my thoughts your thoughts." We have a God who loves us in every situation in life. To me personally that give me hope and helps me to minister to others who have no hope at all. Ted, thank you for share with us today about Paul and the love knew about. A love that we deeper than knowledge.
this makes me think that anything that stands, and does not fall or fade away, has love at it's base. it seems that all we are or all we do has to have love or else it is worthless. love is...
Sometimes the best things I learn DO come through the lips of a child. Makes me wonder what I'll do when I don't have little ones in the house anymore!
Joe,
Thanks, brother. You're too kind.
Thanks Lorenzo. Same to you!
We just need the faith of a little child, and then we can come to know that love that we all so much need. I think that's what life is all about, and I'm sure you agree: relationships. Full and free and open, and for all. That is in Jesus what becomes open for us all.
And yes, let's take over Martin's house! and maybe some of you would like to join us over there, at Martin Stickland's blog (see my blog links).
Thanks Preacherman for those most helpful words. A great post right there! Thanks, brother.
Nancy,
Yes, and so well expressed. Thanks, much!
Wow! What comforting thoughts, really. It can be frightening, discouraging, to realize what we cannot do, do not know, do not understand. Your post reminds me that it is not about me, and my abilities, at all. Thank you.
L.L.,
Just write a book from their sayings with perhaps some of their illustrations. Would be good!
Thanks for reminding us of that. May we have ears to listen and really hear.
The Walk,
Thanks. Yes, we're so much in need of the Lord and each other in Jesus. And we're even needed ourselves! Yes, even I fit.
Thanks for your thoughts here. When we do struggle with fear, it is that perfect love in Jesus that drives out fear. I have struggled with that so much of my life. The Lord is so good to have helped me come a long ways on that.
Hi Ted, thanks for the comment about little children.
Re BEER! I'm not a great beer drinker actually although a do enjoy a pint of freshly pulled bitter although there are so many small breweries that make delicious 'real ale' that it's hard to choose. I also like draft Guiness.
There are some lovely named beers:
Black Sheep, Speckled Hen, Bishop's Finger, Old Peculiar and tons more. Ask Martin. I think he would probably be an expert. Now if you had asked about gin ...
Lorenzo.
Lorenzo,
haha. Thanks.
Yes, I'll have to run that question past Martin. If he picks up on it here, he could drop in his answer as well.
Post a Comment