As we saw in our recent study of the book of Jude, we are encouraged to keep ourselves in the love of God while we wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring us to eternal life (verse 21).
This got me thinking. Millions have read the best selling book by Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life. While reflecting on a purpose driven life, a thought occurred to me. Jesus calls us to be love driven in our daily walk, or love directed.
In John 13-17, which includes the Upper Room discourse, I was surprised to find the word “love” mentioned 30 times. I thought it would be good to do a topical study of “love” based on these chapters. To do this, first, collect all the information you can on the topic. Then correlate it into an outline. Finally, crystallize what you have learned on the topic into some personal applications.
Let me encourage you to read these 5 chapters over a few times and take note of the many times “love” is referred to. List what you find in each place where the word is used. Then reflect on what you find.
You might be interested to know that all but three of the references to love use the word “agape,” which means a self giving, unconditional love. The three exceptions use the word “phileo,” which means “a natural affection for.”
As you collect this information start correlating it into an outline. When I did this I came up with five points: God the Father’s love, Jesus Christ’s love, Our love, the World’s love and the Quality of love. The Title I came up with was, “Love is like a Diamond.”
