Marks of a True Christian
Summary
This condensed instruction on Christian character and practice can be summarized under 12 qualities, each a facet of agape love. Growing in these facets of love requires diligence joined with dependence.
- Sincerity (v. 9a) – “Let love be genuine.”
- Discernment (v. 9b) – “Abhor what is evil; hold fasts to what is good”
- Affection (v. 10a) – “Love one another with brotherly affection”
- Honor (v. 10b) – “Outdo one another in showing honor”
- Enthusiasm (v. 11) – “Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord”
- Patience (v. 12) – “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer”
- Generosity (v. 13a) – “ Contribute to the needs of the saints”
- Hospitality (v. 13b) – “…seek to show hospitality.”
- Sympathy (v. 15) – “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep“
- Harmony (v. 16a) – “Live in harmony with one another”
- Humility (v. 16b) – “Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight”
- Love of enemies (vv. 14, 17-21) – “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them”
Conclusion
How to “do” these 12 facets of love?