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There is something wonderful that happens when we are filled with the Holy Spirit. Paul records this amazing event in the book of Romans.
"…the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us (Romans 5:5). Now, every born again Christian has God's love just as every Christian has the indwelling Holy Spirit. But when an individual is baptized with the Holy Ghost as the disciples experienced on the day of Pentecost, a greater measure of the Holy Spirit is given and a greater love is imparted to the believer. Love is key. We are loved by God and we rejoice in this, but the question God asks of us is do we love Him?" Or, to what degree do we love Him? Jesus asked Peter," Do you love me" This exchange between Peter and Jesus is recorded in John's Gospel.
So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, feed my lambs. 16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jones, lovest thou me?
He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, feed my sheep. 17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, feed by sheep. (John 21:15-17)
There are two different Greek words used for love in this passage of scripture. I have noted them above. Charity, showing love by action and is unconditional Friendship, love which is conditional. Peter responds to Jesus' question with phileo. Earlier, eleven though Peter challenged Jesus when told that all the disciples would scatter and be offended. Peter vehemently said that he alone would not be offended. Of course we know that Peter's actions betrayed Him and exposed all that was in His heart. So when Jesus directed the question, "Do you love me?" Peter understood, because it was still fresh in his mind what he had done, "Yes, Lord I love thee" (conditionally with limitations). How could he say differently? His actions told the entire story. It was only later after Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit that he displayed a love of which he formerly was not capable. In the book of Acts we see a totally new Peter. We see Him boldly declaring the Gospel with no fear. We see Him stand for Jesus against religious leaders and obey God even when threatened with prison and death. Now, Peter is filled with a passionate love for Good that is beyond the ordinary. He is fearless. He is courageous. He stands boldly in the face of fiery trials. What has changed? He is filled with the Holy Ghost and the love of God is shed abroad in his heart.
The love that Peter depicts in you. This is a love that can be seen. It is evident. It is love that is unconditional and forthright no matter what the circumstances. I encourage you to put your love in God on display. Let the world know you are passionately in love with Jesus. Not only by your words, but by your deeds and by your actions.
Receive a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit. You are loved! You are appreciated! You are prayed for! See you in church!
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Gary Bailey is pastor at Light Ministries Church in Lewistown. Worship services are 10 a.m. on Sundays. Sunday school is at 11:15 a.m.