Currently, Pastor Pauley has been teaching us seven ways God’s love is manifested to believers: sovereignly, demonstrably, eternally, historically, uniquely, prophetically and faithfully. During one of Pastor Pauley’s recent sermons, I could not help contemplating about the vast spectrum of God’s love. However, one word did come repeatedly to my mind as he preached—the word is “unconditional. “
The word “unconditional” is defined by the American Heritage Dictionary, as: without conditions or limitations; absolute. If we apply this definition to describe God’s love; it describes a limitless and perfect love! It’s a condition inconceivable and mindboggling to Christians. For example ”…How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out” (Romans 11:33b). Or, “to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge…” (Ephesians 3:19a). These verses convey to a finite creation (mankind) the unfathomable and inscrutable ways of an infinite God. Therefore, it would be preposterous and pointless to try to comprehend His ways!
We live in a society in which every aspect of our lives is based on conditions. For example, when we purchase a product that carries a “lifetime” guarantee/warranty on it, the warranty, is NOT for the duration of YOUR physical lifetime; certainly not! But rather, it is for the average lifetime of that particular product. Therefore, the product has a “conditional” warranty.
Bills are another typical condition that plays a vital part in all our lives. If a bill or installment is not paid by a scheduled date, it might go to a collection agency. Or worse yet, your utilities might be turned off, your car repossessed, or your home might go into foreclosure. Some companies may give you a short “grace period” to pay their bill, but you are definitely not given an “unlimited grace period”. Additionally, banks or loan institutions will most likely scoff at your attempt to plead for mercy. Imagine if God operated this way!
Furthermore, limitations are not just set by corporations. Individuals also set conditions. In fact, personal affiliations or alliances are set with certain parameters; even vows of love are limited! We positively affirm to uphold our wedding vows; “In sickness and in health…til death do us part.” But, do we really abide by these vows? And if one spouse violates such vows, the marriage can deteriorate in separation, splitting up, or even divorce. How quickly we forget, “God hates divorce” (Malachi 2:16), and desires for us to love one another sacrificially and completely (1 Corinthians 13).
Sadly, these same conditions are incorporated in all our earthly relationships. When set conditions are breached, we might sin by taking a brother to court, seek revenge; shun family, friendships, etc. Compassion is replaced with contempt, mercy with maligning, patience with peevishness, and love with loathing; our love is definitely finite! But, by the power of the Holy Spirit operating through the Word of God, we can learn to manifest a proper loving attitude. True love must never be conditional or limited (1 Corinthians 13:8).
We are truly blessed because God’s love is truly unconditional!
One of the ways God’s unconditional love is bestowed upon us is through His forgiveness. When Peter proudly asked Jesus if forgiving a brother up to seven times was adequate (Matthew 18:21), Jesus responded ”…I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven (Matthew 18:22). Jesus challenges us to always forgive unconditionally and without limitations. There are many times we sin against God, sometimes even miserably, yet He always forgives us (Psalm 103:3), and even forgets our offenses against Him (Isaiah 42:25; Jeremiah 31:34). Why? Because His love for us is unconditional! Even when He chastens us, it is to make us more into the image of His Son. Chastening is a definite indicator of His love for us, and THAT is truly a BLESSING (Proverbs 3:12, Hebrews 12:6)! Though difficult, our Creator is sovereignly leading us to be more holy!
In closing, God’s love is not only unconditional, but it cannot be eradicated and NOTHING can separate us from it. We ought to be extremely thankful and joyful that we are the recipients of His unconditional love.
From Romans 8:35: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?
NOTHING! Amen!
Posted on December 1st, 2009 by Robert
Filed under: From the Pew