13.1 The Law of Love
The Ten Commandments – An Expression of Lived Love

Read Exodus 20:1–17. How do these verses reveal the two principles of love for God and love for others?

The Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:1–17 wonderfully reveal the divine order founded on love—love for God and love for one’s neighbor. These two principles lie at the heart of God’s character and thus at the heart of His law.

Jesus Himself made it clear in Matthew 22:37–40 that all commandments rest on two foundational pillars:

1. Love for God – visible in the first four commandments:

   • No other gods

   • No idols

   • Do not misuse God’s name

   • Keep the Sabbath holy

These commandments show how we are to approach God with reverence, devotion, and trust.

2. Love for one’s neighbor – expressed in the last six commandments:

   • Honor your father and mother

   • You shall not kill

   • You shall not commit adultery

   • You shall not steal

   • You shall not lie

   • You shall not covet

These commandments help us live a life of respect, faithfulness, honesty, and justice—an expression of genuine love for others.

The idea that one no longer needs to keep the law as long as one “just loves” is contradictory, because the law first shows us what love looks like. Without the law, love would be an arbitrary concept, dependent on feelings and interpretation. But God has given us clear standards on how love is to be lived out—through His commandments.

True love leads to obedience, not out of a sense of duty, but from a heart filled by God. Whoever loves God wants to please Him—and does so by respecting and living by His Word. Therefore, love and law are not opposites but inseparable partners.

“For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:3)

In this sense, the law is not a contradiction to love but its practical unfolding.

How could we express our love for God or for others if we break one of the Ten Commandments?

This is a very important and profound question because it touches the core of what it truly means to love God and our neighbor.

If we break one of the Ten Commandments, we essentially deny the love we claim to have for God or for other people. Why?

1. Love is shown through actions

   Love is not just a feeling or a nice word—it shows itself very concretely in our behavior.

   If someone says, “I love you,” but constantly lies, hurts, or disrespects you, then those words are empty.

   It’s the same with our relationship to God. Jesus says in John 14:15:

   “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”

2. Breaking the law harms the relationship

   • If we love God, for example, we will not worship other gods or misuse His name.

   • If we love people, we will not steal from them, lie to them, or harm them—physically or emotionally.

Breaking a commandment is always a break with love—because we disregard the well-being of the other person or God’s honor.

3. God seeks a genuine heart-connection

   God sees the heart. When we stumble, He is merciful—but we must return to Him with a sincere heart. This means:

   • Recognize and confess our guilt

   • Ask for forgiveness

   • Realign ourselves—in love and obedience

True love is also revealed in our willingness to repent and in our desire to do God’s will.

Conclusion

A life that ignores God’s commandments cannot express true love—neither to God nor to people. Love becomes visible through obedience to what God has defined as good and right. Therefore, the attitude of our hearts is crucial: do we truly want to love the way God loves? Then it will be reflected in our lives—through faithfulness, honesty, respect, and devotion.

“Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Romans 13:10)

God’s law—an expression of His love—is not just a theological idea or a topic for church. It directly influences our daily lives. The Ten Commandments are meant not only to regulate our behavior but also to shape our hearts. They show us how faith can be lived out in everyday life.

Here are some concrete connections:

1. Faith is demonstrated in everyday life through lived love

   If we want to love God and our neighbor, it is not enough to talk about it in church—we have to make it tangible in our daily lives:

   • In the family through respect, patience, and forgiveness (e.g., “Honor your father and mother”).

   • In the workplace through honesty, reliability, and fairness (e.g., “You shall not steal”).

   • In traffic, in conversations, on social media—everywhere we interact with people, we show how deeply we have internalized God’s commandments.

2. The law as a mirror for our daily actions

   The commandments help us reflect on our own behavior:

   • Am I truthful in my speech and actions?

   • Do I respect other people’s boundaries?

   • Does my leisure time negatively impact my relationship with God (e.g., the Sabbath)?

   • Do I covet what belongs to others instead of being thankful for what God has given me?

In these questions, the law becomes alive and personal—it accompanies us throughout our day and helps us grow in love.

3. When we fail: grace and realignment

   We are not perfect. But if we break a commandment, God does not call us to condemnation but to repentance and to renewing our relationship with Him and others. In everyday life, this means:

   • Not remaining proud or stubborn but admitting mistakes

   • Asking for forgiveness—from God and, if necessary, from people

   • Beginning anew—strengthened by God’s grace

4. A testimony to others

   People observe our lives. When we live in love, truth, and integrity, our daily life becomes a living testimony for God. Obeying the commandments out of love is a powerful expression of our faith—not as compulsion, but as fruit of our relationship with Jesus.

In summary:
The law of love affects every area of our lives:

• Our speech

• Our thinking

• Our actions

• Our decisions

• Our relationships

It is not a rigid standard but a living guide on how we can live in God’s love—day by day. Thus, our everyday life becomes the place where faith becomes visible.

“Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it.” (Luke 11:28)

Would you like to go through some everyday examples of how each commandment can be practiced concretely?

True love is not shown merely in words, but in faithfully living according to God’s commandments.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-love-is-the-fulfillment-of-the-law-13-1-the-law-of-love-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

The Message of the Second Epistle of John

Overview:

The Second Epistle of John is a very short letter (only 13 verses) but rich in content. It was written by the Apostle John – presumably addressed to a church (symbolically referred to as “the chosen lady”) or to an exemplary Christian woman and her family. The letter focuses on two central themes: love and truth – while also warning against false teachers.

Central Message:

1.Truth and love are inseparably linked.
John emphasizes that a life in the truth of God (i.e., in accordance with the Gospel) becomes visible through lived-out love.
Truth without love becomes harsh – love without truth becomes arbitrary.

2.Obedience is expressed in love.
The love Christians are called to is not merely a feeling, but is made concrete by keeping God’s commandments – especially the command to love one another (vv. 5–6).

3.Warning against false teachers.
John clearly warns against those who deny the doctrine of Christ – particularly that Jesus came in the flesh (v. 7). These are described as “deceivers” and “antichrists.” Such individuals should not be supported or welcomed (vv. 10–11), in order to avoid sharing in their evil deeds.

Core Statement:

“Walk in the truth and love one another – but beware of those who have left the truth.”

Relevance for Today:

The Second Epistle of John is just as relevant today as it was back then. In an age where tolerance is often valued above truth, this letter reminds us that true Christian fellowship must be built on the solid foundation of truth and love – and that it is a spiritual responsibility to consciously distance ourselves from false teachings.

 

March 23, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Johannes Chapter 1

¹ The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth;

² For the truth’s sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever.

³ Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.

⁴ I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.

⁵ And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.

⁶ And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.

⁷ For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

⁸ Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.

⁹ Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.

¹⁰ If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:

¹¹ For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

¹² Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full.

¹³ The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

The Second Epistle of John is short but powerful. In just 13 verses, the Apostle John summarizes key elements of the Christian faith: truth, love, and vigilance. He addresses it to a “chosen lady and her children,” which can literally refer to a family or symbolically to a church. In a time of increasing false teachings and spiritual confusion, this letter calls us to stand firmly in the truth, live in genuine love, and remain spiritually alert.

Commentary

Greeting in Truth and Love (Verses 1–3)
John speaks as “the Elder” and emphasizes his love for the “chosen lady and her children” – in the truth. This truth is not merely a doctrine but a living reality that remains in us and unites us.

    Truth and love are the two foundational pillars of Christian fellowship.

Encouragement to Live in Love and Obedience (Verses 4–6)
John rejoices over children (perhaps spiritual descendants) who walk in the truth. The love for one another is not a new commandment – but the old, enduring one given from the beginning.

    True love is shown through obedience to God’s commandments – not just words.

Warning Against False Teachers (Verses 7–11)
A serious tone: many deceivers have gone out into the world who deny the incarnation of Christ. John links such people with the antichrist.
He warns:

• Be careful not to lose what we have built (v. 8)

• Only those who remain in Christ’s teaching have God (v. 9)

• Do not offer hospitality to such deceivers (vv. 10–11)

      Avoiding false teaching is not unloving – it protects the church and the truth.

Conclusion (Verses 12–13)
John longs for personal fellowship – not just written communication.

    True fellowship completes our joy – and that still holds true today.

Summary
The Second Epistle of John calls us to live in truth and love.
Truth without love is cold; love without truth is empty.
John gives a strong warning against false teachers who deny Christ and urges clear separation from them. At the same time, he highlights the value of sincere, personal fellowship among believers.

Message for Us Today

• Stay rooted in God’s truth, even when the world relativizes it.

• Live genuine love, shown through obedience to God’s Word.

• Be watchful of teachings that deny Jesus Christ – even if they appear modern, tolerant, or spiritual.

• Cultivate real fellowship that goes beyond digital interactions. Face-to-face connection strengthens our faith.

In a time when truth and love are often set against each other, this letter reminds us:
They belong together – in Christ.

 

 

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/23-03-2025-2-john-chapter-1-believe-his-prophets/

1.Why and in what way is it true that “every false religion … teaches its followers to be indifferent to human needs, suffering, and rights”? What concrete steps can we take to avoid such negligence in our local congregations and beyond?

False religions often concentrate on external rituals, dogmatic regulations, or selfish promises of salvation instead of on the profound meaning of love and justice that God requires of us. When a religion focuses solely on fulfilling personal duties or on strictly following rules, it can lead its adherents to become indifferent to the real needs and suffering of other people.

Why is this statement true?

1. Separation of Faith and Daily Life:

   – False religions tend to reduce faith to spiritual practices while neglecting social responsibility.

   – A person may appear pious yet remain indifferent to poverty, injustice, and oppression.

2. Self-Centered Piety:

   – Many religious systems teach a works-based righteousness that focuses on earning personal rewards rather than on selfless service to others.

   – Instead of practicing mercy, followers focus on “merits” that benefit only themselves.

3. Hierarchical and Exclusive Thinking:

   – Some religions or religious groups teach that only their members are “saved” or “worthy,” while outsiders are not considered “neighbors.”

   – This fosters indifference or even contempt toward other groups of people.

4. Ignorance of Social Justice:

   – In false religious systems, suffering is often seen as “divine punishment,” thereby avoiding the responsibility to help.

   – This can lead to a resigned attitude toward societal issues such as poverty, racism, and exclusion.

What can we do to avoid such indifference?

1. Understand and Live the Biblical Teaching Correctly:

   – Jesus demonstrated that true piety does not consist of religious rituals but of lived love (Matthew 22:37–40).

   – Churches should regularly emphasize that neighborly love is a central component of faith.

2. Shape the Community as an Active Helping Fellowship:

   – Promote programs that support the needy, refugees, or the socially disadvantaged.

   – Place practical projects such as food banks, pastoral care, and diaconal work at the center.

3. Raise Awareness for Social Injustice:

   – Take biblical prophecy seriously: The prophets of the Old Testament consistently demanded social justice (Isaiah 1:17; Micah 6:8).

   – Speak out against current injustices and actively engage as a community against them.

4. Connect Faith with Concrete Actions:

   – “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:17).

   – Churches should not only preach but also give testimony through tangible acts of love.

5. Self-Examination:

   – Every Christian should regularly ask:

   Am I more occupied with religious duties than with genuine neighborly love?

   Do I see the need in my surroundings – or do I consciously overlook it?

   Am I acting as Jesus would?

Conclusion
A religion that does not lead to love and active commitment to the weak is a dead religion. Jesus himself criticized the Pharisees for placing external piety above mercy and justice (Matthew 23:23). Our challenge is to live our faith in such a way that it affects not only our souls but also transforms the world around us with God’s love.

2.Who is My Neighbor? Who is Your Neighbor? In What Practical Way Should Following Christ Make Us More Like the Samaritan, Who Transcended the Boundaries of His Time to Practice Love?

Who is my neighbor? Who is your neighbor?
Jesus answered this question with the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37). His radical example shows that our neighbor is not only the one who is close to us, but every person in need—regardless of origin, religion, or social status.

In Jewish society at the time of Jesus, Samaritans were regarded as enemies. Nevertheless, it was the Samaritan who showed mercy while the religious elites—the priests and Levites—passed by indifferently. This makes it clear:
Neighborly love knows no boundaries.
Our neighbor is not only our friend but also the stranger, the needy, and even the enemy.

Today this means:
Our neighbor is the homeless person we ignore daily.
Our neighbor is the refugee seeking shelter in our country.
Our neighbor is the child from a troubled background who needs love and support.
Our neighbor is the co-worker who feels lonely, or the elderly lady in the neighborhood who rarely receives visitors.

The question is not: “Who is my neighbor?” but: “Am I a neighbor to others?”

How should following Christ make us more like the Samaritan?
Following Christ means adopting His attitude—a stance that transcends boundaries in order to love.
What did the Samaritan do concretely?
He stopped and took notice—he saw the need and did not ignore it.
He acted—he bandaged the wounds of the man.
He invested in others—he paid for the care of the injured.
He expected nothing in return—his help was selfless.

In practical steps, this means for us today:
Seeing: Do we notice people in need, or are we too busy with our own lives?
Helping: Are we content with just words, or do we engage in real acts of love?
Investing: Are we willing to give our time, money, and energy for others?
Without conditions: Do we help out of pure love or only when it benefits us?

Transcending Boundaries—Living Neighborly Love Today
Social and Cultural Boundaries:
Samaritans and Jews were enemies, yet the Samaritan overcame enmity through love. We, too, are called to break down prejudices. This could mean:
Engaging openly with people from other cultures rather than excluding them.
Building bridges between social strata—helping not only those who are like us.

Emotional Boundaries:
Sometimes pride or fear prevents us from reaching out to others. Jesus challenges us to love even those who are difficult, to forgive, and to work toward reconciliation.

Leaving Our Comfort Zones:
Neighborly love often means making oneself uncomfortable for the sake of others—sacrificing time, giving money, and standing up for justice.

Conclusion: Living a Life in the Love of Jesus
A Christian who truly follows Jesus will not ask about boundaries but will seek opportunities to show love.
Be the one who stops to help.
Be the one who does not merely “pass by.”
Be the one who acts, rather than merely feeling pity.
For true discipleship means not only speaking about love but living it—every day, for every person.

3.If God Loves Justice and Mercy, How Should We Act in Accordance with What Is Most Important to God? How Can We Focus More on What Jesus Calls “The Greatest Commandment in the Law”?

God loves justice and mercy—so how do we act in accordance with Him?
The Bible makes it clear that justice and mercy are not optional but central values of God. In Micah 6:8 it is stated:
“He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

Jesus himself emphasized in Matthew 23:23 that the most important part of the Law is not merely about religious duties but involves:
Justice – advocating for truth and fairness.
Mercy – putting compassion into action.
Faith – leading a genuine, trustful life with God.

How do we act in accordance with God’s heart for justice?

1. Living Justice – Not Just Expecting It
God expects us to actively pursue justice—in our families, in our congregations, and in society.
In the family: Treat your neighbors fairly, respectfully, and lovingly.
In the church: Create an atmosphere of acceptance and support, without excluding anyone.
In society: Stand up against injustice—support the poor, the disadvantaged, and the oppressed.
“Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; uphold the rights of the afflicted and oppressed.” (Psalm 82:3)

2. Showing Mercy – Not Just Preaching It
Jesus was not only just, but also full of compassion. He encountered tax collectors, sinners, the sick, and outcasts with love. We can imitate this by:
Avoiding judgment of others and instead offering help.
Forgiving, even when it is difficult.
Consciously living out kindness and compassion in daily life.
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:36)

3. Expressing Faith Through Action
Faith is not merely a theoretical concept but an attitude of the heart that is manifested in actions.
Putting God first instead of simply following rules.
Connecting faith with works—living out neighborly love in practical ways.
Not only being devout in church, but reflecting God’s love every day.
“Faith without works is dead.” (James 2:26)

How can we focus more on what Jesus calls “the greatest commandment in the Law”?

1. Set Priorities Correctly:
Focus not only on external religious duties but also on the disposition of the heart.
2. Act Consciously Every Day:
Look for opportunities to live justly, mercifully, and faithfully—whether at work, at home, or with strangers.
3. Take Jesus as Your Example:
He reached out to the poor, the oppressed, and the lost. Let us do the same.

Conclusion: A Life According to God’s Standard
If God loves justice and mercy, then we are called to live them out—not just in grand social movements, but in our daily lives, our decisions, and our interactions with others.
Act justly.
Be merciful.
Follow God humbly.
This shows that we truly understand what is most important to God.

4.When We Reflect on and Discuss Judgment, How Often Do We Emphasize That Jesus Considers Judgment Primarily in Terms of Whether and to What Extent We Actively Love Others, Especially the Oppressed and Enslaved? Consider This in the Context of Matthew 25:31–46.

In Matthew 25:31–46, Jesus describes the final judgment. He makes one thing clear: the criterion for judgment is not solely what we have believed, but how we have treated others—especially the needy, the weak, and the oppressed.

“Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” (Matthew 25:40)

Jesus contrasts two groups:

1. The Righteous (the Sheep): They fed the hungry, gave drink to the thirsty, welcomed strangers, clothed the naked, visited the sick, and cared for prisoners.

2. The Unrighteous (the Goats): They did not do these things.

What does this mean for our understanding of judgment?
Often, when we think of “judgment,” we focus on God’s punishment for sin or on whether we have kept all the commandments. However, Jesus presents another perspective:
Judgment reveals how our love for God is reflected in our love for people.
It is not just about personal piety but about living out neighborly love.
Our attitude toward the needy is a reflection of our relationship with Jesus.

Why does Jesus view judgment from this perspective?

1. God Identifies with the Afflicted:

   – Whoever helps the poor is serving God Himself.

   – Whoever ignores the suffering of the weak, ignores God.

2. True Justice is Active Love:

   – Faith without works is dead (James 2:26).

   – A life lived according to God’s will is evident through concrete actions.

3. Our Responsibility Does Not End with Words or Prayer:

   – The “sheep” help without expecting anything in return.

   – The “goats” only care for themselves and ignore the suffering around them.

“For I was hungry, and you did not feed me; I was thirsty, and you did not give me something to drink…” (Matthew 25:42)

How can we prepare ourselves?

Do not remain passive: Actively reach out to people in need.
Act consciously: Practice justice and mercy in both small and large matters.
See with Jesus’ eyes: Recognize the image of God in every person, especially the weak.

Conclusion
Judgment will not be a theological test of knowledge but a revelation of how truly we have lived the Gospel.
Have we fed the hungry?
Have we visited the lonely?
Have we loved our neighbors as Jesus did?
If we act deliberately in this way today, we need not fear judgment. Then we will one day hear from Jesus:
“Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world!” (Matthew 25:34) 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-love-and-justice-the-two-greatest-commandments-12-7-questions-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/