Sermon – Love Language For The Church – Words of Affirmation

This is the second week of our five-week series on how we can see the love languages in Scripture; and how we can express these love languages to help others and share our faith.
The five love languages are: Acts of Service (which we discussed last week); Words of Affirmation (which we will discuss today); Gift Giving (which will be next week); followed by Physical Touch; and Quality Time.
We can look at how we use our words; what we say; how we say it; and even what we should not say; and of course, what God has done, is doing, and will do with His Word and His words.
When you hear “The Word of God,” what do you think of?
- God’s written word – Scripture
- The Word – Jesus Christ
- God’s spoken word – the voice of God (or speaking through someone)
If we think of God’s Word as Jesus Christ, then we would not be wrong.
- John 1:1 (NLT) tells us that “In the beginning the Word already existed; and that the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
- Genesis 1:1 (NLT) … In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
- Colossians 1:16 (NLT) … for through Him (Jesus) God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see – such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through Him and for Him.
The Word is Jesus – one part of the Trinity – the only begotten Son of God; who left Heaven, took on flesh, lived amongst creation, was our perfect example of how to be human, was the perfect sacrifice which reconciled God and man … Through Jesus was have the ability to be saved … if we repent, make Jesus our Lord and Savior, and endure faithfully.
If we think of God’s Word as His actual voice – a spoken voice – then God speaks through a still, small voice; a booming voice from Heaven; out of a burning bush; in dreams; and also through other people who are sharing messages from Scripture.
And speaking of Scripture, it is the written word of God; and is the most important book ever compiled. On the pages of the Bible are found words of affirmation, love, mercy, and grace; and words of truth, direction, and correction. The Bible gives hope when we are hopeless, comfort when we suffer, and strength when we are weak.
The Bible reveals to us God’s precepts, principles, and promises. It offers recorded history for our example; and future prophecies for our hope. The Bible is our “roadmap” for life and our “life coach” for living. It records how God and man have been reconciled.
Who brought a Bible with them this morning?
Why did you bring one with you?
- To follow along? … To make sure I’m telling the truth? … It looks good? … Habit?
The Bible is the way we can read God’s written word, about the Word, and hear a word from God all in one.
So, what should we do with the written word, if we want to hear from God; and also share the truths contained within?
We need to remember where Scripture comes from and what it is good for.
- 2^nd Timothy 3:16-17 (NL)T … All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip His people to every good work.
We should study our Bibles; to know what it says, and be able to teach and explain it.
- 2^nd Timothy 2:15 (NLT) … Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive His approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
We should ponder the Word of God – Scripture – in our hearts.
- Proverbs 4:4 .. My father taught me, “Take my words heart. Follow my commands, and you will live.
We should all Scripture to guide and direct us.
- Psalm 119:105 (NLT) … Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
- Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) … “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Questions:
- How do we know if what a church or preachers says is correct?
- How do we know if an action is right or wrong?
- How do we know how to live a holy life?
- How do we know the way to salvation?
- How do we know how to treat other people?
- How do we know what to do if we are sad, upset, angry, etc.?
- How do we know how to anything associated with our faith?
Answer … We must know Scripture and apply it to our lives.
God’s word is His promise, He will not; and cannot lie. So, it is important that we rest upon those and claim the affirmations He has planted in His Word for us.
John 3:16 (NLT) … For this is how God loved the world: He gave His One and Only Son, so that every who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
John 14:1-3 (NLT) … Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.
To the churches In Revelation … endure / be victorious = admission to heaven / crowns
Matthew 11:28-29 (NLT) … Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
There are many more promises than that; but we don’t have this morning to go through everything …
How are we to use our voices – especially with Scripture – to show love? … many of the previously mentioned things can be used … if someone is struggling, sad, worried, anxious, scared, or anything else, then there are verses to help ease their minds and give focus.
In The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), we are to go and make disciples – and after baptizing them – we are to teach them … well, we can’t make disciples and teach them unless we use our words and use Scripture.
Romans 10:13-15a (NLT) … For “Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.” But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in Him? And how can they believe in Him if they have never heard about Him? And how can they hear about Him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent?
2^nd Timothy 4:2 (NLT) … Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
How can we – either as individuals – or as a congregation – use our voices – our words to encourage people; teach people; train people; and ultimately do our part to fulfill the Great Commission and lead people to the Lord?
I shared this last week, (and have before as well; and will most likely again later); but after all is said and done, there is an affirmation from Jesus that we should desire to hear. It is the same one the master gave to his faithful servants in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:21) … The master was full of praise. “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together.