The call to love is the central theme of the Christian faith. Lesson 13, “Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law” (Adult Bible Study Guide titled God’s Love and Justice, 2025) especially in the Thursday section, reminds us that our faith is not merely about avoiding wrongdoing but about actively engaging in acts of love and justice. James 2:1–9 strongly rebukes partiality and injustice, emphasizing that genuine love manifests in our treatment of the vulnerable. This message resonates deeply with me personally, as I work for ADRA, the global humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Love as the Foundation of the Law
The apostle Paul’s words in Romans 13:8-10 reinforce the notion that love is not merely an abstract concept but a principle deeply intertwined with God’s law. Every commandment, from refraining from stealing to honoring parents, expresses love—either for God or for humanity. When Jesus declared, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34, NIV),[i] He emphasized that love is the defining characteristic of His followers. Love is not passive; it is an active force that seeks the good of others.
This call to love is not just theoretical. It finds tangible expression in the work that such organizations as ADRA do worldwide. ADRA exists to demonstrate Christ’s love through practical acts of service. Whether providing clean water, ensuring access to education, or delivering emergency aid, each effort embodies the principle that to love one another means to meet the needs of others.
One of the most compelling aspects of ADRA’s mission is its commitment to justice. Love is not only about acts of kindness but about correcting injustices that marginalize the vulnerable. James 2 warns against favoritism, reminding us that faith without deeds is dead. True love demands that we advocate for the oppressed, just as Jesus did.
May we remember that love is not just an ideal—it is our calling.
Beyond Charity: Love and Justice as a Lifestyle
Many people view charity as an occasional good deed, but biblical love is a lifestyle. First Peter 4:8 instructs us: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (NIV). This indicates that love is a powerful force that transforms not only individuals but entire communities. When we love as Christ loved, we promote healing and reconciliation.
This concept is beautifully expressed by Ellen G. White, who wrote: “Love to man is the earthward manifestation of the love of God. . . . When we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished.”[ii] If our faith is to be genuine, it must be expressed in tangible ways that uplift others.
The church is called to be a beacon of love and justice. Too often, however, religious institutions fall into the trap of focusing solely on theological correctness while neglecting the more significant matters of love, mercy, and justice (Matt. 23:23). The challenge presented in James 2 is particularly relevant today: Are we truly fulfilling the law of love, or are we allowing favoritism, complacency, and indifference to hinder our witness?
Churches should actively find ways to demonstrate love in their communities. This might involve advocating for refugees, supporting single parents, or offering shelter for the homeless. The question we need to ask ourselves is: Does our faith move us to take action?
Ultimately, fulfilling the law of love requires us to look beyond ourselves. It entails embracing discomfort, serving where the need is greatest, and prioritizing justice. Love is not solely about feeling compassionate; it is about taking action with that compassion.
As we reflect on this lesson, let us consider how we can better embody Christ’s love. Whether through humanitarian efforts, local church initiatives, or personal acts of kindness, may we remember that love is not just an ideal—it is our calling.
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35, NIV).
[i] Texts credited to NIV are from the Holy Bible, New international Version. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
[ii] Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages (Mountain View, Calif.: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1898, 1940), p. 641.
