1.Read 1 Corinthians 13:4–8. In what way does 1 Corinthians 13 show what kind of people we should be?

1 Corinthians 13:4–8 is one of the best-known Bible passages about love – and at the same time a powerful mirror that shows us what kind of people we should be.
What does it say?

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” (according to Luther 2017)

What does this tell us about our humanity?
This passage is not just a poetic description but a concrete standard for our daily behavior. It shows:

1. Who we should be – in character:

   Patient instead of impatient

   • Kind instead of harsh or dismissive

   • Humble instead of proud or selfish

   • Willing to forgive instead of harboring grudges

   • Truth-loving instead of hypocritical

2. How we should treat others:

   In relationships, family, church, work – love means understanding, trust, hope, and endurance.

   • Not every conflict must be “won” but rather carried with love.

3. What God expects from us:

   Not perfection, but a heart that grows in love.

   • This love is not a human achievement, but the fruit of the Spirit (cf. Galatians 5:22).

Conclusion:
1 Corinthians 13 shows us the way to a life shaped by God’s love. It challenges us, not through pressure – but through the invitation to let our hearts be formed by God so that we can love as Christ loves us.
This is how we should be: people for whom love is not just a word but a lived reality.

2.What distinguishes the sheep from the goats in Matthew 25:31–46? How can we understand what Jesus says here in such a way that salvation does not come from works?

In Matthew 25:31–46, Jesus describes the final judgment with a strong image: the Son of Man separates people like a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
What distinguishes the sheep from the goats?
The sheep:
have fed the hungry,
• given drink to the thirsty,
• welcomed the stranger,
• clothed the naked,
• visited the sick,
• and remembered the imprisoned.
The goats, on the other hand, did none of these things.
The decisive difference lies not in religious declarations or external forms, but in the concrete actions of love towards the “least of these brothers.”

How can we understand this without it sounding like “salvation by works”?
Jesus is not saying that we are saved by good deeds – rather, that good deeds are proof of a genuine relationship with Him.
The deeds are not the foundation of salvation, but the fruit of it.
The Bible makes it clear:
• Salvation happens solely through grace, through faith in Jesus Christ (cf. Ephesians 2:8–9).
• The deeds follow as a natural consequence of a renewed heart – they are an expression of true discipleship.

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)
This shows: True love for Jesus is demonstrated in love for other people.

Conclusion:
The sheep act out of love because their hearts have been transformed.
The goats, on the other hand, show that they never received or understood this love.
It is not works that save us – but whoever is saved will not be without works.
They are the visible sign of an invisible faith.

3.What does the statement mean for you: “If this command is fulfilled by us, if we love the world as He has loved it, then His commission to us is fulfilled. We are ready for heaven, for we carry it in our hearts” (see Thursday section)? What does this say about both the nature of God and the nature of heaven? How can we, in this respect, live more like citizens of heaven, spreading God’s love in a way that brings light and justice to the oppressed?

This statement – “If this command is fulfilled by us, if we love the world as He has loved it, then His commission to us is fulfilled. We are ready for heaven, for we carry it in our hearts” – is profound and moves both heart and mind. It sums up the essence of the Christian faith and discipleship.

What does this mean for us personally?
It means: Heaven does not only begin after death – but in a heart that lives in the love of Christ.
If we truly love as Jesus loved – selflessly, mercifully, without partiality – then it is evident that we are part of His kingdom. Then we are not only “ready” for heaven, but we already carry it within us.

What does this say about the nature of God?
• God is love (1 John 4:8). This love is not abstract, but acts concretely: it turns to the weak, forgives sin, and heals wounds.
• God does not measure our lives by religious achievements, but by how much we receive and pass on this love.
• God’s command is not complicated: Love! Just as I have loved you. (John 13:34)

What does this say about the nature of heaven?
• Heaven is not just a place, but a state of the heart – a kingdom of love, peace, and justice.
• Whoever seeks heaven must learn to love – not just in words, but in deeds.
• Heaven is where people serve each other, uplift one another, and truly see one another – just as Jesus did.

How can we live as citizens of heaven and bring light?

1. By walking through life with open eyes:

   Where are people being overlooked, hurt, or excluded? How can I concretely help today?

2. By standing up for justice:

   God’s love is not passive – it also confronts injustice, brings healing and hope, especially for the oppressed.

3. By learning to forgive:

   Love that cannot forgive remains stuck in the past. Heaven begins where we let go and start anew – just as God does with us.

4. By living the Gospel – not just preaching it:

   Sometimes a helping hand or an open ear is more of the Gospel than a thousand words.

Conclusion:
This statement reminds us:
Heaven is where love reigns – and where love reigns, God becomes visible.
If we learn to see the world through Jesus’ eyes, to love it with His heart, and to live His commission in our daily lives, then we are truly on our way home – taking others along with us.

4.What practical steps should be taken in your local church community to reflect God’s concern for love and justice in your municipality? What are you doing well in your environment? What must you improve and bring more into focus? What concrete steps can you personally and collectively take to put into practice what we have learned about God’s love and justice?

These questions go deep – they challenge us not only to listen and believe but to act. They invite us, as a community, to live out in a very concrete way what we have learned about God’s love and justice.

What are we (perhaps) already doing well?
Many churches are already engaged in important areas:
• Food distributions, clothing pantries, or support for food banks for those in need
• Visits to the elderly, lonely, or sick
• Children’s and youth work that gives love, structure, and support
• Mission projects or fundraising for people in need around the world
• Prayer groups, pastoral care – spiritual strengthening for others
All of these are important expressions of God’s love in everyday life!

What could we improve or emphasize more?
• Consciously noticing the silent need on-site:
Often we see the need in distant countries but overlook the lonely, refugees, single parents, homeless people right in our city.
• Listening more and judging less:
Sometimes people need not a sermon first, but a heart that listens.
• Inclusion instead of exclusivity:
Are all truly welcome in our churches – including “the others”? (social outcasts, dissenters, people with broken lives?)
• Sustainable aid rather than one-off actions:
Instead of helping only sporadically, structural partnerships could be formed – for example, regular tutoring, mentoring, household assistance, accompanying people on official errands.

What concrete steps can we take personally and together?
Personally:
• Ask daily: “Lord, to whom may I show Your love today?”
• Accompany a person intentionally – for example, a child with a difficult background, a refugee, or a lonely neighbor
• Actively participate in diaconal projects or even bring in your own ideas
• Stand up for justice – for example, by writing a letter to politics, engaging in local initiatives
As a church:
• Start a “Love Challenge”: every week, the church intentionally does good
• Offer social counseling days with lawyers, pastoral counselors, social workers
• Cooperate with other churches, NGOs, and initiatives in the city
• Create open spaces: not just for worship, but for encounter, listening, and help

Conclusion:
God’s love is not just an idea – it is a commission.
A church that loves changes its surroundings.
It brings hope where there is resignation.
It brings light where darkness prevails.
And it shows: Heaven begins right here – through people who act.

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18)

True love is not shown in grand words but in small deeds of the heart.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-love-is-the-fulfillment-of-the-law-13-7-questions-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

March 29, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Offenbarung Chapter 4

¹ After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

² And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.

³ And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

⁴ And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.

⁵ And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

⁶ And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

⁷ And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.

⁸ And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

⁹ And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,

¹⁰ The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

¹¹ Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Revelation 4 marks the transition from the letters to the churches (chapters 2–3) to the heavenly perspective that is shown to John in visions. This chapter symbolically opens the view into heaven, to God’s very throne. It not only displays a majestic scene but also reveals central truths about God’s nature, His reign, and the worship He receives in heaven.

Commentary

1.The Open Door and the Invitation (v. 1)
John sees an open door in heaven—a symbol of revelation and an invitation into the divine realm. The voice (like a trumpet—cf. chapter 1,10) calls him to “ascend”: a transition from the earthly to the heavenly.

2.The Vision of the Throne (v. 2–3)
In the spirit, John sees God’s throne—the center of heaven. The description of God (“like jasper and carnelian”) points to glory and holiness. The rainbow symbolizes mercy and faithfulness (cf. God’s covenant with Noah).

3.The Elders (v. 4)
The 24 elders likely symbolize the united community of the redeemed (12 tribes of Israel + 12 apostles). Their white garments and crowns represent righteousness and the victory through Christ.

4.Power and Holiness (v. 5–6)
Thunder and lightning indicate God’s power and judgment (cf. Sinai). The seven golden lamps are a representation of the Holy Spirit. The glassy sea stands for purity, clarity, and exaltation.

5.The Four Living Creatures (v. 6b–8)
These symbolic beings represent the entire creation in its diversity and vitality (lion = wild animals, calf = domestic animals, man = humanity, eagle = birds). Their many eyes suggest knowledge and vigilance. Their constant worship emphasizes God’s holiness.

6.Eternal Worship (v. 9–11)
The elders fall down and lay their crowns aside—a demonstration of complete submission to God’s rule. They praise God as the Creator, through whose will everything came into being. Worship of God is at the center of heaven.

Summary

Revelation 4 opens the view to God’s throne and heavenly worship. John is taken into heaven and sees a throne surrounded by radiant glory, elders, and symbolic beings. They ceaselessly worship God and acknowledge His holiness, omnipotence, and creative authority. Everything in heaven is oriented toward God’s throne—the center of power, honor, and worship.

Message for Us Today

1.God sits on the throne—He has everything under control.
In a world full of uncertainties, this vision reminds us that God reigns sovereignly. Our lives, our future, and history are in His hands.

2.Worship is not secondary.
Heaven is filled with worship—not as an obligation, but as a response to God’s nature. Our lives should also be an act of daily worship through words, actions, and trust.

3.God’s holiness is awe-inspiring.
The ceaseless worship of “Holy, holy, holy” calls us to reverence before God—an antidote to our often superficial relationship with Him.

4.We are invited to partake.
Like John, we too may look through the “open door.” The Bible invites us to access the heavenly throne through Christ (Hebrews 4:16).

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 10—A Knowledge of God
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 10 is a profound call to recognize God’s nature, actions, and love in creation, in His Word, and in our own lives. Creation, the Word of God, and the influence of the Holy Spirit are three central ways in which God connects with us. This reflection invites us to contemplate God’s glory and to know Him more deeply.

Commentary

1.God Reveals Himself in Nature
Nature constantly speaks of its Creator. Whoever has an open heart and a listening ear can hear the voice of God in creation. Jesus’ parables drawn from nature show how closely heaven and earth are connected. Nature is not only meant to be admired but also to be a teacher and a mediator between God and humanity.

2.God’s Care Is All-Encompassing
From the universe to the sparrow, from the palace to the simplest meal – God’s gaze rests on everyone. This all-embracing love is meant to free us from fear and lead us into deep peace.

3.The Glory to Come
The beauty we now see is only a faint reflection of what God has prepared for those who love Him. The hope of a world without sin and death brings comfort and perspective.

4.The Bible as a Source of Knowledge
God speaks to us through His Word. In it, Christ is revealed. The Holy Spirit helps us to understand these truths. Scripture is clear, accessible, and intended for everyone. But it is not surface reading, rather deep study that brings true understanding.

5.The Effect of the Word on Our Lives
Just as natural food strengthens the body, the Word of God strengthens our spiritual life. Meditation, prayer, and the Holy Spirit work together to transform our character and make us more like Christ.

Summary

God reveals Himself in many ways – through nature, through His Word, and through the Holy Spirit. Those who are willing to listen will recognize His voice. The Bible is the clearest expression of His will. Only through deep study, prayer, and humility can we truly grasp God’s nature. His love is evident in His care for both the smallest and the greatest. Reflecting on these truths leads to the transformation of our hearts.

Message for Us Today

• Be attentive to God’s voice in nature and in everyday life.

• Take time for God’s Word and study it with dedication.

• Ask the Holy Spirit for understanding and guidance.

• Let God’s care comfort and guide you.

• Live with your eyes fixed on the glory to come.

God’s knowledge is not secret wisdom but an invitation to relationship.
Whoever seeks will find. Whoever listens will understand. And whoever believes will be transformed.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/29-03-2025-revelation-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/

13.6 Summary
Divine Love as the Heart of the Law

Lesson 13 leads us to the heart of the Christian faith: God’s Law is an expression of His love, and true love is the fulfillment of this Law. It’s not about external duty, but about a heart renewed by God, obeying out of love.

13.1 The Law of Love

The Ten Commandments reflect God’s love:

• Love for God (Commandments 1–4)

• Love for one’s neighbor (Commandments 5–10)

Jesus sums them up by saying: “Love the Lord… and your neighbor as yourself” (Matt. 22:37–40).
The Law shows what lived-out love looks like—concrete, genuine, and binding.

13.2 The Law Is Holy, Righteous, and Good

Paul emphasizes that the Law remains valid even after the cross (Rom. 7:12).
It is not the enemy of grace but reveals God’s character and our need for salvation.
The Law uncovers sin—Christ is the answer to our guilt.

13.3 Law and Grace

In Jeremiah 31, God promises a new covenant: The Law will no longer be merely on stone tablets but written on hearts.
Jesus calls this “rebirth”—a new heart, renewed by the Spirit (John 3).
Law and grace belong together:

• Grace saves us

• The Law shows us the way

We do not keep the Law to be saved, but because we are saved.

13.4 Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law

Love goes beyond “not doing” wrong—it acts positively.
Jesus highlights “justice, mercy, and faithfulness” as the most important aspects of the Law (Matt. 23:23).
In particular, the Sabbath reminds us not only of Creation but also of liberation and social justice (Deut. 5; Isa. 58).
True fulfillment of the Law means: refraining from evil and doing good.

13.5 Above All, Love One Another

Love is the mark of true discipleship.
James warns against outward piety without mercy.
Jesus says, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35).
Ellen White writes: Whoever loves the world as Christ does already carries heaven in their heart.

Conclusion

God’s Law shows us what love looks like.
Grace gives us the power to live this life.
In Christ, both are fulfilled: the Law is lived out because love dwells within us.

True discipleship means:

• Growing in love

• Living in grace

• And joyfully keeping the Law through the Spirit of God

“For love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Romans 13:10)
That is the goal—and the fruit—of a life with God.

The central message of this lesson—love is the fulfillment of the Law—applies not only to our theological understanding but also very concretely to our everyday life:

1. Lived-Out Love in Daily Life

God’s commandments are not a theoretical moral code but a guide for how we interact with others:

• In the family: patience, forgiveness, respect (Honor your father and mother)

• In the workplace: honesty, integrity, fairness (You shall not steal, you shall not lie)

• In society: justice, neighborly love, compassion (Love your neighbor)

Love is shown not in words alone, but in action—empathy, sharing, helping.

2. Grace Softens Our Hearts

God’s grace changes us from within. Those who experience God’s love want to keep His commandments—not out of compulsion but out of gratitude.
This changes our motivation:

• No longer obedience out of duty, but a heartfelt relationship

• Not “I must live rightly,” but “I want to live as Christ loves me.”

3. The Law Provides Orientation

In a time of moral confusion, the Law is like a compass:

• It helps us make good decisions

• It protects our relationships

• It prevents self-deception

But the compass alone is not enough—we also need the “wind of the Spirit” to move us: law and grace together lead to a life in Christ.

4. Love as Preparation for Eternal Life

Heaven is a place of love. Anyone who wants to live there must learn to love here and now.
Every act of love—every reconciliation, every sacrifice, every service—is a preparation for eternity.
“If we love the world as Christ does, then we already carry heaven within us.” – E. G. White

Conclusion for Daily Life

• Act out of love, not just out of duty

• Trust in grace, not in achievement

• Live the Law not as a burden, but as an expression of your renewed heart

• See in each person an opportunity to make Jesus visible

For where love is lived out, God’s Law is fulfilled—and God Himself becomes visible.

True love is not shown by words alone, but in everyday life—where God’s Law becomes evident.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-love-is-the-fulfillment-of-the-law-13-6-summary-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/