When we look around at the world today, we see brokenness, division, and hurting people in desperate need of something real—something that brings healing, unity, and hope. That something is the love of Jesus Christ.
Love is not just an emotion; it is the most powerful force in the universe. It was love that led God to send His Son to redeem humanity (John 3:16). It was love that held Jesus to the cross when He could have called down angels to rescue Him. And it is love that still has the power to transform lives today.
The question is: How do we live out a love that changes the world?
1. The Love That Comes From God
Before we can love others in a way that changes lives, we must first experience the love of God for ourselves. 1 John 4:19 says, “We love because He first loved us.” Our ability to love others is rooted in God’s love for us.
God’s love is:
Unconditional – It doesn’t depend on our past, our mistakes, or what we can offer.
Sacrificial – Jesus laid down His life for us, showing that true love is selfless (John 15:13).
Transformational – When we receive His love, it changes us from the inside out, shaping how we see ourselves and others.
Before we can love like Christ, we must let His love fill our hearts and change us.
2. Love That Looks Like Jesus
When Jesus walked the earth, He showed us what real love looks like. He loved the outcast, healed the broken, forgave the sinner, and welcomed the lost. He wasn’t afraid to love in ways that were radical and countercultural.
To love like Jesus means:
Loving beyond comfort – Jesus loved people that society rejected. We are called to do the same.
Loving through action – True love is more than words; it requires action. Jesus didn’t just talk about love—He demonstrated it.
Loving even when it costs us – Real love isn’t always easy. It requires patience, grace, and sometimes sacrifice. But this is the love that changes lives.
Jesus told us in John 13:35, “By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Our love should be so undeniable that people recognize Christ in us before we ever speak a word.
3. Love That Reaches the World
The love of Christ isn’t meant to stay within the walls of the church—it is meant to go out and change the world. This means showing love in our homes, our communities, and even to those we struggle to love.
How can we love in a way that impacts the world?
Love in our families – True transformation begins at home. When we love our spouses, children, and relatives with the love of Christ, we create an atmosphere of peace and unity.
Love in our communities – People are drawn to the Gospel through the love we show. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, encouraging a coworker, or supporting those in need, small acts of love can lead to big changes.
Love even our enemies – Jesus commanded us to love not just our friends, but also our enemies (Matthew 5:44). This kind of love breaks down barriers and reveals the heart of God to the world.
4. Love That Never Fails
The world’s version of love is often conditional—it’s based on feelings, circumstances, or what someone can do for us. But God’s love is different. 1 Corinthians 13:8 reminds us, “Love never fails.”
When we love like Christ, we plant seeds that will last for eternity. Even when it seems like love is unnoticed or unappreciated, it is never wasted. Love has the power to heal wounds, restore relationships, and lead people to salvation.
Closing Thoughts
If we want to see our world changed, it starts with love—the kind of love that Jesus demonstrated, the kind that is patient, kind, forgiving, and unrelenting. This love isn’t just for a few—it’s for all of us to carry and share.
As we continue through our Love That Transforms series, let’s commit to being people who love radically, selflessly, and unconditionally. Let’s be a church that loves beyond words and transforms our families, our communities, and ultimately, the world.
Let’s be known by our love.
In His love,
Pastor Chris Tullis
Grace Christian Center
"Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, Growing in Christ"