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Your Question:
What sparks hope in the darkness when love is put to the test?
Answer:
Love is put to the test in various ways, and it is in these moments that we may find hope in the darkness. One way love is put to the test is through its social expression, which is demonstrated in how we treat others. In 1 Corinthians 13, the apostle Paul writes that love "bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things" (v. 7). This means that love is not just a feeling, but a choice to act selflessly and graciously towards others, even in difficult circumstances. When we choose to love others, even when it's hard, we demonstrate our hope in the goodness of God and His power to transform us. The social test of love is not just about how we treat others, but also how we respond to their needs and struggles. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Paul writes that love "suffers long" and "is kind" (v. 4). This means that love is not just about feeling emotions, but about taking action to help others in practical ways. When we put love into practice, we demonstrate our hope in the goodness of God and His power to redeem and restore us. This is especially true when we are faced with difficult situations, such as when a loved one is struggling with addiction or when a community is experiencing poverty and injustice. In these moments, love can be a powerful source of hope and healing. The hope that love brings in the darkness is not just a feeling, but a reality that is grounded in the character of God. As we put love into practice, we are reminded of God's love for us and His power to transform us. In 1 Corinthians 13:13, Paul writes that "three things will last forever: faith, hope, and love" (v. 13). This means that love is not just a temporary feeling, but a enduring reality that will last forever. When we choose to love others, we are choosing to participate in the eternal and unchanging nature of God's love, which brings hope and light into the darkness.
Sources:
history eschatology
n t wright
letters of john
john stott
systematic theology
wayne grudem
new testament background and message
thomas lea
paul and the law
thielman
sacred marriage
gary thomas
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