Introduction

The exhortation to "pursue love and faith" is a central theme in Christian doctrine, emphasizing the importance of these virtues in the life of a believer. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles, love and faith are foundational to the Christian experience and are often intertwined in Scripture. This entry explores the biblical basis for pursuing love and faith, their significance, and their practical application in the life of a believer.

Biblical Basis

1. Love

Love is a fundamental commandment in the Bible, encapsulated in the Great Commandment as taught by Jesus. In Matthew 22:37-39 , Jesus states, "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’" The apostle Paul further emphasizes the preeminence of love in 1 Corinthians 13:13 , "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love."

2. Faith

Faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen, as described in Hebrews 11:1 . It is through faith that believers are justified and live in accordance with God's will. Ephesians 2:8-9 underscores the role of faith in salvation: "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast."

Significance

1. Love as the Fulfillment of the Law

Love is portrayed as the fulfillment of the law in Romans 13:10 , "Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." This underscores the idea that love is not merely an emotion but an active commitment to the well-being of others, reflecting God's love for humanity.

2. Faith as the Foundation of the Christian Life

Faith is foundational to the Christian life, as it is through faith that believers are united with Christ and receive the Holy Spirit. Galatians 2:20 illustrates this union: "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me."

Practical Application

1. Pursuing Love

Pursuing love involves actively seeking to love God and others. This can be manifested through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and service. In 1 John 4:19 , believers are reminded, "We love because He first loved us." This love is to be genuine and sacrificial, mirroring the love of Christ.

2. Pursuing Faith

Pursuing faith requires a commitment to trust in God's promises and His character. This involves regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and participation in the life of the church. Hebrews 12:2 encourages believers to fix their eyes on Jesus, "the author and perfecter of our faith."

Conclusion

The pursuit of love and faith is a lifelong journey for Christians, integral to their spiritual growth and witness to the world. By embodying these virtues, believers reflect the character of Christ and fulfill their calling to be His disciples.