Supernatural love, as revealed in Scripture, transcends human understanding and embodies the divine nature of God. This extraordinary love is exemplified in 1 John 4:8, which states, 'Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.' This profound truth invites believers to reflect on the essence of love as not merely an emotion but as an active choice that mirrors God’s unconditional affection for humanity. Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:44, 'But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,' illustrating that supernatural love extends even to those who oppose us, challenging the natural inclinations of the human heart. Furthermore, Romans 5:8 powerfully declares, 'But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us,' highlighting the sacrificial nature of divine love which calls us to emulate this same selflessness in our relationships. The testimony of Thomas Ellwood concerning Isaac Penington serves as a historical reflection of this love in action, showcasing how believers throughout history have embodied this supernatural love in their lives. Ultimately, the call to supernatural love is a call to reflect God’s character, as seen in Colossians 3:14, where we are urged to 'put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.'
Greek Word Studies delves into the meaning of 'provoked' in the context of sharp irritation or anger, emphasizing the importance of not yielding to provocation and maintaining a spirit of selfless, supernatural love. The sermon highlights the exhortation in Romans 12 to bless those who persecute and