1 John 4:11
Memory Verse
Brethren, since thusly the God loved us, we are obligated to love one another, 1 John 4:11.
God expressed His love towards the world by giving His Son (John 3:16). The Son was set as a propitiation (satisfaction) concerning our sins, displaying that God is righteous in the deferral of punishment for sins and thus just to justify those who are out from faith in Christ (Romans 3:26).
Simply put, when God displayed His love towards the world, He did what was best for us. Following this same pattern, we are to seek what is best for other saints. On the night in which Christ was betrayed, He gave the disciples a new commandment. Love one another as I have loved you (John 13:34). Christ commits His life to the well being of those whom He loves (Hebrews 7:25). This love is not to be directed at the world, nor the things of the world (1 John 2:15). It is a love that is manifest among believers, by which those outside of the Church will know that the one showing this type of love is a disciple of Christ (John 13:35). In the same manner, we are to seek what is best for other Christians.
Laying down your life for another saint is not about death; it is about living for them. We continue in fellowship with the saints for the benefit that it brings all of us. When we are together, we can manifest our Spiritual gift for the edification of the body of the Christ. Therefore, a life that is dedicated to the saints is not looking at the things the world has to offer, but seeks to reside within God’s desirous will among the saints.