Have you ever thought about what it really means when Paul says in Phil 1:8:
“For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus”
It’s more than a heartfelt sentiment or just words—it’s Paul expressing Christ, who lives in us.
Love Perfected in Us
In our previous post on 1 John 2:3–6, we saw that every believer has the innate ability to love, and it is the hall-mark of a believer. In fact, John says that “love has been perfected in us”. Why is that so? Because we have Christ in us. This is why John was so confident that anyone who doesn’t love is not from God, because God is love!
Christ who Lives in Me
Remember, when Paul says to the Galatians: “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” As we unpacked in our deep dive on Galatians 2:19–20, every ounce of our new life springs from Jesus. When Paul speaks of “the affection of Christ,” the literal greek is “from the bowels or inner-most parts of Jesus”. Wow! How amazing is that. We have been equipped to love through Jesus.
And that love is Agape love.
Remember David’s cry in Psalm 51:6—“You desire truth in the inward parts.” We are the fulfilment of that cry! We’re that new creation, filled with truth (Christ), divinity (Christ), and love (Christ) in our innermost being.
Agape from the Gut
This isn’t some polite “love your neighbor” courtesy card earned by prayer marathons or willpower. Agape love is intrinsic to who you are once you’re born again. Think of it as spiritual DNA: it bubbles up from deep within, not as a response to someone else’s kindness, but as a Christ‑pulse that beats in your chest.
Spotting True Affection
So how do you tell Christ’s affection from a purely human feeling? Here are a few markers:
- Unconditional Care: Christ’s love doesn’t keep score or demand reciprocity.
- Loving the Undeserving: You’ll find yourself showing compassion to people who haven’t “earned” it.
- Spirit‑Led Generosity: Your kindness isn’t transactional; it flows out naturally, often surprising you.
- Endurance: Christ’s love sticks around—even when emotions fade or situations get messy.
Putting It Into Practice
You already have this love—stop treating it like a treasure hunt and start using it! Pray, “Jesus, show me people today I can love with Your affection,” then watch how He prompts you to reach out, encourage, or simply listen.
Because if Christ lives in you, His heartfelt longing becomes your own. And that changes everything.
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