And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you. 1 Thessalonians 3:12
Our English language text does not show it, but the word ‘love’ in this verse is not the Philadelphia or brotherly love that Christians ought to show toward each other. Here it is the unconditional and unlimited agape love that originates with God and can come only from God. By its nature, agape is perfect. So how can Paul be praying that agape increase and abound, if it is already perfect?
Nothing can be any more perfect than the love of God. But Paul is writing to Christians who are not perfect. Being indwelt by the Holy Spirit, we are enabled to love as God loves. But we are still living in sinful and unredeemed bodies that war against the Spirit. Our old nature has no interest in displaying God’s love. So we need to be reminded to allow that love to be on display, as our Saviour and Lord displayed it during His sojourn among humanity.
Paul prayed for the Thessalonians – and us – to demonstrate love among the Christians. Where better to display the love of God than among the people of God! Unconditional and unlimited love is our hallmark as followers of Christ; ‘By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another’ – John 13:35. Paul does not stop with the Christians, though, as he directs them to have that love toward everyone. Our love toward them will be the best way to draw sinners to our Saviour. But even if they don’t come, we are to love them anyway.
Abounding agape love is what filled the heart of the Lord Jesus; may it also increase and abound in ours. -Jim MacIntosh
Here is the link to the video of this message: https://youtu.be/3XAgz9gIfSk