Love is Dangerous

There are lots of discussions on how love is to be expressed. The expectations may be different among friends, spouses, relatives, coworkers, or neighbors. You’ll also find differences in each culture all across the globe.
The Bible puts Jesus in the mix and says “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers” (1 John 3:16).
The example of Jesus is very clear. He literally laid down his life for us. What we are to do is also very clear, but quite disturbing. “We ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.”
What’s difficult is that the verse refers to our “brothers.” We expect more from those in the faith. We’re less tolerant when offended by our brothers and sisters in the faith. For outsiders, we have a different set of expectations.
So, the next time someone close to you offends you, lay down your life. When someone speaks against you, lay down your life. When your brother or sister does harm to you, lay down your life.
In this way, we become more like Jesus.

Your Turn

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Alexi George is a pastor, teacher, and writer. He is devoted to helping people live their potential.
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