A Sermon by Rev. Douglas Ahamefula and Elder Brenard Rowe, Elders at Victory Church in Providence, RI. Opening Tribute and Introduction Reference to Biblical principle: "The seed we sow is the seed we reap." Honoring Bernard for 32 years of service to the church, emphasizing long-term commitment and various roles in ministry (especially choir/music). Mention of Bernard’s wife, Fanny, who has passed away. Note of Bernard’s journey to the church and his active, faithful involvement. Bernard’s Acknowledgments Bernard expresses gratitude to Senior Pastor Richard and Pastor Lisa. Occasion: 36th church anniversary, international service. Bernard humbly accepts the opportunity to speak and share the good news of Jesus Christ. Theme: The Power and Nature of God’s Love Encouragement to reflect on the strongest force in the universe: love, specifically the love of God. God's love described as eternal, unchanging, and foundational. Focus on unconditional (agape) love, not romantic or materialistic love. Illustrated Stories and Examples Story of a village fire: neighbors show overwhelming love and support to a woman who lost everything. Love stronger than the devastation caused by the fire. International service: church as a community of 26 nations, demonstrating God’s love through unity and cultural celebration. Biblical Foundations of Love Biblical description of love (1 Corinthians 13:4-8, paraphrased): Love is patient, kind, not envious or boastful, not proud. Does not dishonor, is not self-seeking or easily angered. Keeps no record of wrongs, rejoices in truth, always protects, trusts, hopes, perseveres, never fails. Call to consistently demonstrate these biblical attributes of love. The Greatest Demonstration: Jesus Christ and the Cross Reference to John 3:16: God's gift of his only son as act of unconditional love. Example of Christ’s sacrifice—pleading for forgiveness, promise to the thief: “You will be with me in paradise.” Analogy: judge takes punishment upon himself—parallels Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity. Command to Love One Another Quote of John 13:34-35: “A new commandment I give you, love one another…” Must demonstrate love for others; cannot claim love for God while hating others. Forgiveness and Restoration Parable of the prodigal son: father’s unconditional love and forgiveness; call to emulate this. Romans 5:8: God’s love demonstrated while we were still sinners. Sacrificial Love in Practice Example: missionaries risking life for the gospel—sacrificial love. No one can outgive God; God’s gifts surpass all. God’s Love in Creation and Deliverance Genesis 1:31: God declares his creation “very good” as a sign of his love. God's deliverance in biblical history: freeing Israel from Egypt, crossing the Red Sea. Love like a shepherd rescuing a lost sheep. The Permanence of God’s Love Romans 8:38-39: nothing can separate us from God’s love. God’s love is likened to a lighthouse—guiding through storms. Call to Action and Conclusion God’s love is the greatest gift, endures forever, accessible to all. Challenge to receive and share this love unconditionally: “Love is like a candle, it doesn’t lose light by lighting another.” Call for unity and acts of love among church community. Closing prayer of thanksgiving, blessing, and request to show sacrificial love.