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/

March 22, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Johannes Chapter 5

¹ Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.

² By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.

³ For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

⁴ For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

⁵ Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

⁶ This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.

⁷ For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

⁸ And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.

⁹ If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son.

¹⁰ He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.

¹¹ And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

¹² He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

¹³ These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

¹⁴ And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

¹⁵ And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

¹⁶ If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

¹⁷ All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.

¹⁸ We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.

¹⁹ And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.

²⁰ And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.

²¹ Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

The First Epistle of John culminates in chapter 5 with a powerful summary of the Christian life: faith, love, obedience, victory, testimony, prayer, and assurance. John writes with fatherly warmth to strengthen believers. It’s about the victory of faith in a world that lies in wickedness—and the gift of eternal life in Jesus Christ.

Commentary

1. Faith as the Source of Victory (Verses 1–5)
Faith in Jesus as the Messiah shows that one is born of God. True love for God is shown by keeping His commandments—which are not burdensome when love and grace are active in the heart. Our faith is not merely a confession, but a power that overcomes the world.

2.God’s Triple Testimony (Verses 6–12)
Water (baptism), blood (the cross), and the Spirit testify that Jesus is the Son of God. God’s testimony is greater than that of men. Whoever believes in the Son has life—not only in the future but already now.

3.Prayer with Assurance (Verses 13–17)
John writes so that believers may have assurance of eternal life. He shows that those who ask according to God’s will are heard. There is power in intercessory prayer—though there are limits when people consciously and persistently reject God.

4.Preservation and Knowledge (Verses 18–21)
Those born of God do not live in sin, but are protected. The world lies in wickedness—but we belong to God. Jesus Christ is not just the messenger, but the true God and eternal life. John closes with a solemn warning: “Keep yourselves from idols.”

Summary

Faith in Jesus as the Son of God is the source of life, love, and victory. God’s own testimony affirms Jesus as the Savior of the world. Whoever trusts in Him has eternal life. Prayer is powerful, especially when aligned with God’s will. God protects His children, and in Christ we recognize the truth itself. The letter ends with a call to faithfulness: away from idols, close to God.

Message for Us Today

“Whoever has the Son has life”—this assurance should fill our hearts.
In a world full of doubt, distraction, and uncertainty, John calls us to stay focused: Jesus Christ is our life. The world may be loud, chaotic, and confusing—but the faith that rests on Jesus carries and conquers.

Let us remain in God’s love, trust in His commandments, and approach Him in prayer—boldly and confidently. For God hears—and God protects.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 9—The Work and the Life
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 9 describes God’s selfless love as the source of all life, light, and blessing. This principle of selfless devotion is evident throughout creation, but most especially in the life of Jesus Christ. His existence was marked by sacrifice—he lived to save humanity and set an example of love and service. His followers should adopt the same attitude: a life that does not seek self-fulfillment but instead places the well-being of others at its center. This service is not only a calling but also the path to true happiness and spiritual growth.

Commentary

1.The Source of All Life and Blessing

God is the origin of life and blessing, and everything that exists receives light and joy from Him. Just as sunlight and flowing water nourish all living things, so too should humans receive and share God’s blessings. True fulfillment in life does not come from seeking personal gain but from sharing God’s love with others.

2.Christ as the Ultimate Example of Service

Jesus Christ lived a completely selfless life. His greatest concern was to save fallen humanity, even at the cost of suffering and sacrifice. Likewise, angels were not created for themselves but to serve others. The very essence of heaven is not selfishness but sacrifice and love. Those who reject this mindset separate themselves from God.

3.The Impact of God’s Love in a Person

When Christ’s love dwells in a person’s heart, it cannot remain hidden. It radiates outward and influences all who come into contact with them. A Christian’s life should be like a fresh spring in the desert—bringing refreshment and life to those in need.

4.The Joy of Serving Others

The deepest expression of love for Christ is the desire to help others. This was the principle by which Jesus lived. His life was not one of comfort and ease but of tireless service. Those who follow Him will not focus on their own desires but on the well-being of others.

5.The Importance of Sacrifice

A true disciple of Jesus is willing to make sacrifices so that others may experience the blessing of salvation. This sacrifice can take the form of time, resources, or personal dedication. Those who have received God’s grace cannot keep it to themselves—they will feel compelled to share it with others.

6.Communion with Christ Through Service

Serving others not only brings blessings to the recipients but also to the one who serves. God could have entrusted His work of salvation to angels, but He chose to involve people so that their faith could be strengthened. Anyone who dedicates themselves to God’s service will grow deeper in their experience of His love and truth.

7.The Necessity of Spiritual Growth Through Service

Christian growth does not happen through passive receiving but through active giving. Those who do not live out their faith will lose it. But those who carry out God’s mission and serve others will grow spiritually. This is a divine principle: spiritual strength comes through active engagement.

8.Every Christian is Called to Serve

The Church of Christ is called to bring the Good News to the world. This task is not only for missionaries or preachers but for every believer. Each person can be a witness for Christ through their work, behavior, and relationships. Even those who cannot travel to distant lands can still contribute through prayer, support, and serving in their immediate surroundings.

9.Imitating Christ in Everyday Life

Jesus spent most of His earthly life engaged in everyday work as a carpenter. He demonstrated that every job and every activity can be an opportunity to serve God. Even a simple worker can bear witness to Christ through faithfulness and integrity. Everyone can be a light to those around them and lead others to faith.

10.The Blessing of Selfless Service

Many people believe they are not qualified to work for God’s kingdom, but God does not only call the most talented—He calls every believer. Even the simplest tasks, when done with love, are valuable in God’s kingdom. Those who are faithful in small things will also be entrusted with greater things.

11.No Excuses – Everyone Can Serve

Many wait for a “special opportunity” to serve God, but this is a mistake. The best opportunity is the present moment—by living faithfully, showing love in daily life, and being open to the needs of others. Those who make themselves available to Christ will experience how He uses them and how their lives bear fruit.

12.The Hidden Influence of Service

Some people do not see the visible results of their efforts and feel useless. But God sees everything and will bring hidden deeds to light. Often, the effects of our actions will only be revealed in eternity. Those who remain faithful will ultimately see that no selfless act of service was in vain.

Summary

Chapter 9 teaches that true joy and fulfillment are found in selfless service. God is the source of all blessings, and He desires for us to pass these blessings on to others. Jesus is the highest example of a life of dedication and service. Those who follow Him will not live for themselves but for the good of others.

God has given us the privilege of participating in His work of salvation. This is not only a duty but also a blessing for us. Serving others strengthens our faith, brings us closer to Christ, and fills us with deep joy. Every Christian is called to be a light to others through their work, testimony, and love.

The greatest growth in faith does not come from passivity but from active participation in God’s work. Those who share God’s blessings with others will be blessed themselves. But those who remain spiritually inactive will lose their faith. Therefore, this chapter calls us not to wait but to act immediately and wholeheartedly for Christ—whether in our own homes, churches, or the world.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/22-03-2025-1-john-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/

12.6 Summary
Love and Justice – The Heart of God’s Commandments

This lesson shows that true discipleship of Jesus is expressed through lived love and justice. God’s will is that we love Him with all our hearts and express this love through mercy and justice toward our neighbor.

12.1 The Two Greatest Commandments – Love as the Foundation

Jesus summarizes the entire Law in two commandments (Matthew 22:34–40):
Love for God – with all our heart, soul, and mind.
Love for our neighbor – as we love ourselves.
These two commandments are inseparable: true love for God is reflected in our love for others.

12.2 The Two Greatest Sins – Idolatry and Lovelessness

If love is the greatest commandment, then its opposites are the worst sins:
Idolatry – When something other than God fills our hearts (e.g., wealth, power, or selfishness).
Lovelessness – When we are indifferent to justice and the well-being of others.
These sins separate us from God and lead to the destruction of human relationships.

12.3 God Loves Justice – His Call to Us

Psalm 33:5 & Isaiah 61:8 show that God loves justice and cares for the weak.
He calls us to do the same:
• Help the poor and oppressed.
• Stand up for truth and righteousness.
• Not just act religiously, but live with mercy.
Justice is not a secondary theme in the Bible – it is central to our life with God.

12.4 Called to Work for Justice

The prophets already proclaimed this in Old Testament times:
“Learn to do right! Seek justice!” (Isaiah 1:17)
“Woe to him who treats his neighbor unjustly!” (Jeremiah 22:13)
Jesus continues this message and warns against outward religiosity without justice and mercy (Matthew 23:23).
God’s call to us: Do not just talk about faith—take action by helping concretely in our families, churches, and society.

12.5 Who Is My Neighbor? – The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37)

A teacher of the law asks: “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus answers with the parable of the Good Samaritan, which carries a clear message:
Neighborly love has no limits – it applies to anyone in need.
True mercy acts – it does not ask about convenience or duty.
Jesus lived justice and love – and calls us to do the same.
Our task: To consciously be a “neighbor” to others today – in daily life, in our surroundings, and everywhere.

Conclusion: Love and Justice as a Lifestyle

Loving God means doing His will – and His will is justice.
Love for our neighbor is shown not in words, but in concrete actions.
Faith without lived love is empty.
Jesus lived God’s love perfectly – and He calls us to do the same.

This lesson shows that faith is not just theory but is demonstrated in everyday life – in how we love God and interact with others. Love and justice are the foundation of Christian life, and Jesus calls us to actively live them.

1. Living Out Love for God and Our Neighbor in Daily Life

Matthew 22:37–39 teaches us that God must come first. But true love for God is not only shown in prayers or church services – it is reflected in our actions toward others.

In the family:
• Do we forgive each other, or do we hold onto past hurts?
• Do we treat our children with love and patience?

At work or school:
• Are we honest, even when it’s difficult?
• Do we treat colleagues or classmates with respect?

In society:
• Are we willing to help those in need, even at personal cost?
• Do we turn a blind eye to injustice?

Loving God means reflecting His nature – through lived love and mercy.

2. The Danger of Idolatry and Lovelessness – Where Are Our Priorities?

Idolatry is not just worshiping statues – it means loving anything more than God.

Am I too focused on my career or reputation?
Do I prioritize my own desires over the needs of others?

Lovelessness often manifests in everyday life:
Do I judge others instead of showing them mercy?
Do I ignore those in need because I think it’s not my problem?

Jesus calls us to examine our hearts: What is keeping me from truly living in love and justice?

3. Living Justice – Not Just Talking About It

God loves justice (Psalm 33:5), and He commands us to practice it:

In the family: Do not ignore conflicts, but seek reconciliation.
In the church: Do not exclude or judge anyone, but accept them in love.
In society: Advocate for social justice, not just personal gain.

Micah 6:8 sums it up:
“He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Justice is not a side issue – it is at the core of our faith.

4. Who Is My Neighbor? – A Question That Shapes Our Daily Lives

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) teaches us:

Neighborly love has no boundaries. It applies not only to family but also to strangers and even enemies.
Neighborly love means action. Faith without works is dead (James 2:17).

Who is my neighbor today? Perhaps a discouraged coworker. A lonely neighbor. A friend in need.

Conclusion: Lived Love Is the Key to True Faith

Faith without love and justice is empty.
True worship is shown not only in words but in actions.
Every day gives us the opportunity to love God – by loving others.

Our challenge: Choose today to actively live love and justice. Not someday – but now.

True neighborly love is not just spoken—it is demonstrated through action. Today is the best opportunity to live it.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-love-and-justice-the-two-greatest-commandments-12-6-summary-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/