Watch Out for Deceivers
Lesson Text: 2 John
Thought to Remember: Love follows Truth, and Truth follows Love
Lessons learned:
If love and truth connect, our beliefs and behavior are also interconnected. These connections hold significance. Why?
Love is the driving force behind Jesus' actions that draw us toward God. His motivations alone enable us to see that the process of His death, burial, and resurrection was the only means necessary for humanity's redemption. Yet, truth is an absolute while serving as a guiding principle that directs our beliefs and behavior. It is with truth that we gain clarity about Jesus’ actions of love. This truth provides a solid foundation that we can build on during our lives while realizing that the premise of truth extends into the afterlife. Because truth shapes our belief in Jesus’ atonement for sin, resulting in benefits in the afterlife.
Therefore, the interconnectedness of love, truth, beliefs, and behavior is significant because it influences how we live our lives. When these principles are in harmony, they create a powerful synergy that leads to spiritual growth. This interconnectedness is not just theoretical; it has practical implications for interacting with others, making decisions, and navigating life's challenges. When we depart from Jesus’ teachings about love and truth, we jeopardize all spiritual rewards. To receive full rewards, we must finish our spiritual journey with the same love and truth we obtain from Jesus’ earthly ministry.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, open our eyes to false teachings that draw us away from You. Allow us to see and be active participants with Jesus in our hearts, minds, and bodies. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
