This sermon is an intro to the context and purpose of 1 Corinthians 13: how love is God’s way to build unity in the Church.

Just as Christ is the embodiment of the Father’s love, so are we to embody His love toward one another. Every facet of who we are and how we live should orient around His defining love.

Steps to Embody a Concept (study the life of John the apostle!)

1. Mind: Romans 12:2
   • Understand the Concept: Begin by clearly defining the abstract idea or principle you want to embody.
   • Conscious Application: Don't just acknowledge the concept; consciously decide how to implement it in life.
2. Heart: Psalm 139:23-24 ,
   • Self-Reflection: Ask yourself questions to bridge the gap between understanding and living the concept:
     1. How will it change my thinking?
     2. How will it change my behavior?
     3. How will it change my understanding of the world?
3. Body - 1 Corinthians 12:25-27
   • Express Through Action: Use your words, body language, and behaviors to consistently express the concept.
   • Develop Bodily Awareness: Pay attention to how the concept feels in your body and how your body responds to living by it.
4. Soul - 1 John 3:18
   • Integrate into Habits: Allow the concept to become ingrained in your identity, leading to changed habits and patterns.
5. Be a Living Example: Ultimately, embody the concept means to be a symbol or expression of that idea or quality in your daily life

As we dive into the values of CORE, we discover truths that are universal for the people of God, including our calling to reflect God’s purpose for us. There is a difference between function and purpose, our design reveals His intent for us to BE His people rather than DO anything for Him.

Obedience to God’s Word sets us free as we act in love, believe with trust, and confess the Truth to the world.

This is the first in our new series on the values of CORE church:

1. Centering God’s Grace
2. Obeying God’s Truth
3. Reflecting God’s Purpose
4. Embodying God’s Love

Today we discuss how God’s grace is the anchor of the Christian faith. His grace enables us to live the righteous life He desires so that the world may know Him.

God has given us so much in this world to expand His kingdom. Are we using what was given to us or just keeping it a secret. Remember that we will be held accountable.

The people of Kingdom of God must show mercy as our Heavenly Father shows us mercy.

Don’t forget your oil.