Every disagreement presents a chance to practice patience, forgiveness, and grace. It beckons us to listen actively, to seek understanding, and to prioritize reconciliation over winning an argument. The heart of 1 John 4:20-21 challenges us not only to evaluate our words but also our actions. Are we truly reflecting God’s love in the heat of conflict? Are we quick to anger, or are we slow to respond, remembering that the love of Christ compels us to act with kindness, compassion, and humility?
As Pastor Jojo Espulgar articulated in this sermon, conflict is an inevitable part of our human experience. But how we choose to respond to conflict can define the quality of our relationships and our walk with God. This brings us to the powerful message found in 1 John 4:20-21, which states: “If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ yet hates his brother or sister, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.”
In these verses, we are faced with a profound truth: our love for God is intrinsically linked to our love for others. It’s easy to proclaim our love for God in moments of peace, but when conflict arises—be it within our families, friendships, or our church community—the authenticity of that love is put to the test.
When we encounter conflict, let us choose love. Let us remember that our love for God finds its truest expression when it overflows into our love for one another. May we be a church that shines brightly in a world so often shadowed by worldly desire—a community that reflects the heart of God in all our interactions. Let us strive to love others genuinely and hold each other accountable as we journey together in faith.
