Paul starts this passage saying love must be sincere. What love is most sincere? The love of God who sent his son Jesus is most sincere. The love of Jesus, who died on the cross for our sin, is most sincere. We now must practice the love of Jesus for others. We should love others. Some of the practical application mentioned are to practice hospitality and bless those who persecute you. Sometimes our Bible students do not respond to our calls, even after studying with us and being served for many years. We should still love them with the love of Jesus. In this world, the barrier of race, ethnicity, culture, wealth, and social status all divide people. It is hard to love one another. But Jesus loved us and died on the cross for our sins while we were still sinners.

Paul also says hate what is evil. Hating the devil's work and what is evil is important and crucial. We need to actively cut off and hate evil. Otherwise, the devil can easily make room in our heart. Before we know it, we may be already following the plan and scheme of evil. Only when we hate what is evil can we cut off the devil's influence from our lives.


Application: Lord, please help us to practice the love of Jesus he had shown on the cross. Help us to actively fight against evil and hate evil so we may not fall into temptation.
One Word: Love must be sincere, hate what is evil.