His Deep Love

“The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.”

1 Peter 4:7-8 NLT

After Emperor Constantine embraced Christianity in the fourth century AD, persecutions diminished and the faith gradually gained credibility in the Roman Empire. But as the church increased in power, so rivalries and conflicts intensified.

About these patterns, historian Paul Johnson commented, “The mind boggles at the lists of offenses with which distinguished ecclesiastics accused each other.” Church leaders imprisoned and even tortured other leaders. One was accused of “breaking and cutting off the arm of one of his opponents, burning his house, tying him to a column and whipping him, and putting him in a cell illegally.”

These conflicts often degenerated into disputes about personal preferences and power. Church unity was eroded, and its influence among non-Believers was weakened.

We can understand how conflicts emerge. Yet we also are reminded of Jesus’ prayer, that His followers would “be one,” and that their unity would help convince the world that “you sent me” (John 17:21). But that unity can be hard to maintain.

It can be easy to focus on personal opinions, to be judgmental and critical. While it is important to have an accurate, Spirit-inspired understanding of the Word, it also is important to have the right attitude. We need to stay on guard and keep from surrendering to the impulse to encourage rivalries and disputes. As Peter wrote, we are to “show deep love for each other.” And we are to pray for others, even those with different opinions.

Today, ask God to fill you with His Spirit that His love might flow through you. In every situation, ask Him to help you demonstrate that love. And remember that all of us make mistakes, but “love covers a multitude of sins.”

Prayer: Father, forgive me for times for having a critical spirit. Fill me anew with Your Spirit that I might overflow with love. Use me to impact others with the Gospel. In Jesus’ name. Amen.