Daily Devotion with Pastor Tong Liu: Today's Passage

2 Corinthians 5:14-15

For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

Paul was raised under strict Jewish traditions and taught to obey the Jewish law since he was little. He was taught by a well-known Rabbi, Gamaliel, and did everything according to the Jewish law. We can imagine Paul teaching in their synagogues others and debating with the Sanhedrin. However, it is hard for us to imagine Paul, as he says in verse 13, being out of his mind for God. Paul was rational and intellectual, a hero and idol to the Christian theologians. How could he be considered out of his mind?

The truth is because Paul was touched by the love of Jesus Christ. As such, he lived as though he was crazy for the Lord. In Verse 15, Paul particularly mentioned that Jesus Christ died on the cross for us to pay the penalty of sin on our behalf, hence those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him. This truth should not only be a mere doctrine, but it should inspire you and I to live for God. Jesus was born for the world and died on the cross for all mankind. The purpose was not only to defeat the enemy, but to demonstrate his love for the church and for you and I on the cross. Once we understand this love, we can be compelled to live for God.

Paul was once touched by this love. As such, he gave up his position in the Sanhedrin. This was something that his peers did not understand. Paul was able to endure all kinds of suffering in his ministry not because of the perfect doctrine, but because of the love that was burning inside him. Do you have the same passion in your heart? The fundamental question is, "Have you ever been touched by God's love?" Paul said He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for him who died for them and was raised again. Brothers and sisters, the most important thing in our lives is not doctrines or rituals, but your love for the Lord. The Lord said, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." If you love the Lord, this love will be the motivating power for your ministry in life.

Pray with Pastor Tong

Lord, I thank you because you first loved us. May your love compel us once again to not focus on mere doctrines or rituals, but let us be filled with joy and strength each day as one who is being loved, to live for you. I thank you and pray in the victorious name of Jesus, Amen!