(Adapted from The Difficult Doctrine of the Love of God, by D. A. Carson, InterVarsity (2000))
 t Least Five Categorical (Different) Biblical Expressions for The Love of God
- Intra-Trinitarian Love - Love between the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit
John 3:35;
John 5:20;
John 14:31;
John 17
- God’s Providential, Common & Logistical Grace Love for the World He Made
Genesis 1;
Matthew 6
- God’s Salvation - Sacrificial & Transforming Love towards His Fallen World
John 3:16;
John 15:19;
1 John 2:2;
Ezekiel 33:11
- God’s Particular Selecting Love toward His Elect
Deut. 7:7-8;
4:37;
10:14-15;
Malachai 1:2-3;
Ephesians 5:25;
John 17
- God’s Conditional Love toward His own People
John 15:9;
Jude 21;
Exodus 20:6;
Psalm 103:9-11,13,17-18
ll of the Five love-expressions of God work simultaneously. >>See Chart<<
 o one love of God tramples or nullifies or compartmentalizes or diminishes the other loves.
ll the loves work together for good.
 o we should be able to see how each one works differently but also see how all work together for the good of God’s simultaneous purposes.
 hus, we can judge how accurate certain love-cliches really are:
“God’s love is unconditional”
“God loves everyone exactly the same way.”
 es, but no... as if... not even...
 od’s Love is more nuanced more complex than simple cultural car bumper slogans.
*** Discuss cultural reasons why the Loves of God are difficult to express & explain. ***
he Greatest Commandment & Love for our Neighbors
(
Lev. 19:18,34;
Deut. 10:19;
Mark 12:30-33;
Matthew 19:18-30;
22:34-40;
5:43-48
)
he Cross & Christ is our standard & Hero; If God gives Common Grace so can we.
he Gospel of Grace is the Transforming Policy of Love that Reverses the Fortunes in our own lives. Therefore, we should show the same to others. Neighborly Love reverses expectations and fortunes. We should surprise our neighbors with our love. Jesus set no limit on neighbor because God’s love is given to all men. Thus, He demanded that His followers, His people should love everyone. Jesus dismissed loving those who already love you.
*** Read & discuss Parable Matthew 18:21-35. ***
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