The Narrow Way

In a world where definitions of love are numerous and varied, 2 John 1:6 brings us back to the foundational truth of what it means to love according to the teachings of Christ.

This scripture emphasizes that true love is demonstrated through obedience to God’s commands, specifically the command to love one another.

It encourages us to express our love not just in words or feelings but through our actions and way of life, aligning our steps with the teachings of Jesus.

Context:

2 John is a brief letter that focuses on truth, love, and obedience, warning against deceivers and encouraging the faithful to live according to the teachings of Christ. Within this context, 2 John 1:6 serves as a pivotal reminder that our love for God and for others is intrinsically linked to our obedience to His commandments, particularly the command to love.

2 John 1:6:

“And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.”

This verse succinctly defines love as living in obedience to God’s commands, underscoring the action-oriented nature of love that is rooted in biblical teachings.

Application to Our Daily Lives:

1. Understanding Love as Obedience: We strive to understand and embrace love as obedience to God’s commands, recognizing that true love is reflected in our willingness to follow God’s directives for how we relate to Him and to one another.

2. Walking in Love Daily: We commit to walking in love daily, making conscious choices to act in love in all our interactions. This involves patience, kindness, forgiveness, and seeking the good of others, just as Christ taught.

3. Reflecting on the Command to Love: We reflect on the command to love one another, understanding that this is both a hallmark of our faith and a reflection of our love for God. We seek ways to embody this command in our homes, workplaces, and communities.

4. Encouraging Loving Obedience in Community: In our faith communities, we encourage one another to live out this love through obedience to God’s commands. We support each other in our efforts to walk in love, offering encouragement and accountability.

5. Demonstrating Love Through Actions: We demonstrate our love through our actions, understanding that love is more than just an emotion. Our deeds of love and service become tangible expressions of our obedience to God.

6. Prioritizing Love in Decision-Making: We prioritize love in our decision-making processes, asking ourselves how we can best demonstrate love in any given situation. This priority guides us to make choices that honor God and serve others.

7. Seeking Growth in Love: We seek continuous growth in our ability to love as God commands, recognizing that walking in love is a lifelong journey. We remain open to learning, growing, and being transformed by the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion:

2 John 1:6 calls us to a profound understanding of love — one that is actively lived out in obedience to God’s commands.

As we endeavor to walk in love, let this verse inspire us to align our actions with the teachings of Christ, demonstrating our love for God and for one another through our daily lives.

May our commitment to this command lead us into deeper fellowship with God and with each other, as we embody the love of Christ in a world in desperate need of it.