The Law of Love

1 Corinthians 9:19-21
Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law. When I am with the Gentiles who do not follow the Jewish law, I too live apart from that law so I can bring them to Christ. But I do not ignore the law of God; I obey the law of Christ. (NLT)

Galatians 6:2 tells us to "Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ."

The Law of Christ is also referred to as the Law of Love.

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." (John 13:34-35)

And then in John 3:16 we hear "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life."

And a few days ago we celebrated the birth of Jesus with lights and trees and food and gifts. Before that we sent reminders to many of the love we have for them because of what Jesus did for us. We sent out Christmas cards in cyberspace and by the postal service.

When we are with others, believers and unbelievers alike, we are to blend in. Paul speaks here of obeying the Jewish laws when with the Jews and of not being concerned about them when he was with non-Jews. What we never do is disobey the law of God.

It is not about our sharing our religion. It is not about telling people how to live their lives. It should be all about sharing the presence of Jesus every day, everywhere we go.

Giving

1 Corinthians 9:14
In the same way, the Lord ordered that those who preach the Good News should be supported by those who benefit from it. (NLT)

Paul did not charge for his preaching as did others. This is true today as well. Many minister and expect payment for their time. Others give without expecting a reward. Does this scripture mean that all should charge a fee?

I believe Paul had it right. He preached the Good News everywhere he went. When he needed money, he made and sold tents. He did not depend on his teaching to pay his way. He depended on God to supply his every need.

Ministry today has turned for some into a vocation. Many churches are corporations with large financial needs. They have great programs to teach the congregations, to fill them with the knowledge the leadership believes them to need. To support the programs, the members have to give regularly. Much of the money is spent right within the church walls.

Then there are the smaller churches where the Word is preached and the preacher works to support his family. The offerings received go to support the work of the church in the local area and to spread God words to the lost.

Are all big churches like the one described? Are all small churches involved outside their little church body? No, I do not think so and only those in those churches really know what goes on.

This scripture tells us that those who benefit from the teaching should help support the teacher. We should be giving where we are being fed. I believe in tithing or giving a tenth of what I make back to the Lord for the work He has for us to do. Whether it is a tithe or an offering, it is important to support those who are helping to spread the Good News.