True Measure of Life

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.  (1 John 3:14)

Don’t measure existence of the life of Christ in any fellowship by the amount of spiritual activity. It is not how much faith that bears witness of the disciple but how much love toward each other (John 13:35). Even faith requires action. We love one another not because we agree in a matter or share common interests. We love because we are brethren. To love the brethren is to over look each other faults and shortcomings, ‘love covereth all sins’ not some sins (Prov 10:12). This is the cross we ought to bear. This is the walk we ought to walk after the footsteps of the Master (1 John 2:6).

We want God to love us. Selfishness is when we don’t share the love of God with others, especially of the household of God. We know the love of God because Jesus laid down His life for us, similarly the outworking of the love of God toward the brethren (1 John 3:16).

Christian love is practical not just talk (1 John 3:18). Don’t just say that we love one another, show it. We know that the love of God dwells in us by ensuring our brethren have what we have.  Sin is shutting up compassion and selfishly hoarding for ourselves. The true measure of Christ life in us is when we love unconditionally, not wanting anything in return. God gave, so do we in like manner.