Faith working through love is central to the Christian life. The verse in Galatians 5:6 states, “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.” This verse teaches an important truth – that it is ultimately faith expressing itself through love that matters most. But why is this kind of faith so significant and powerful? Let’s explore several key reasons.
1. It reflects the character and nature of God
The God of the Bible is often described as loving (1 John 4:8), merciful (Ephesians 2:4), and full of grace (John 1:14). His very essence is love. When our faith is paired with love, we are reflecting the very character of God. We are walking in step with His Spirit (Galatians 5:25). Just as Jesus demonstrated profound compassion and sacrificial love during His life on earth, so our faith must be matched by sincere love if we want to emulate our Savior.
2. It was modeled by Jesus
Jesus taught that the two greatest commandments are to love God and love your neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39). He demonstrated what this kind of selfless, sacrificial love looks like through His life, death on the cross, and interactions with people. Jesus loved, served, taught, healed, and sacrificed Himself out of love for us. When our faith in Christ leads us to follow His example and love others, we are living out true biblical faith. As 1 John 3:16 (ESV) says, “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.”
3. It fulfills the intent of God’s law
The Old Testament law was given to provide guidelines for how to live a righteous life. But at its core, the essence of the law was love (Matthew 22:37-40). When we have faith that works through love, we are fulfilling the spirit and intent of the law, rather than just legalistic obedience to rules. Romans 13:8 (ESV) tells us, “Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.”
4. It reflects spiritual maturity
A faith that works through love is the mark of spiritual growth and depth. It is evidence that we are moving beyond superficial religion and into true relationship with God and others. 1 John 4:7-8 (ESV) states, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.” Our love is evidence that God’s love has saturated our hearts and is being lived out.
5. It is the foundation for true Christian community
The early church in Acts 2 dedicated themselves to loving fellowship with one another. They shared meals, possessions, and lived life together in community. This was made possible by their faith working through love. When Christians today allow their faith to stir love for others, it builds unity, harmony, and care within the church. 1 Peter 4:8 (ESV) urges, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”
6. It advances the Great Commission
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commissioned his followers to go and make disciples of all nations. But it is love that fuels evangelism and ministry. When our faith expresses itself through compassion, mercy, and love for others, it draws people to inquire about the hope within us (1 Peter 3:15). They are able to see our faith lived out in action. Our hearts for others open doors for the gospel.
7. It is evidence of true salvation
Many verses suggest that love for others is a litmus test for genuine conversion. 1 John 3:14 (ESV) states, “We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers.” And James 2:14-17 asks what good is faith without love and action. Our love demonstrates the sincerity and validity of our faith in Jesus.
8. It is empowered by the Holy Spirit
We cannot manufacture biblical love and compassion in our own strength. It is the work of the Holy Spirit within us, flowing through us. As we yield to the Spirit’s leading, He produces the fruit of love in our lives (Galatians 5:22). The very love of God is poured into our hearts by His Spirit (Romans 5:5). So we rely on the Spirit to empower love through our faith.
9. It is the most enduring spiritual gift
In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul elevates love above all other spiritual gifts. He essentially says that without love, the gifts are of no value. Love outlasts all other gifts. At the end of the age, faith and hope fade away, but love remains (1 Corinthians 13:13). So above prophecy, teaching, giving, and everything else, the enduring power of faith working through love stands supreme.
10. It fulfills the will of God
1 Thessalonians 4:3 (ESV) makes it clear that God’s will is for our sanctification, which includes loving others well. And Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV) exhorts us to walk in love, just as Christ loved us. When our faith activates love, we are fulfilling God’s very purpose for our lives. This brings glory to Him and aligns our life’s purpose with His divine will.
In summary, faith working through love is so vital because it reflects God’s character, fulfills His commands, advances His kingdom work, builds up community, spurs spiritual growth in us, and ultimately fulfills His will and purposes. It is the supreme expression of faith in action and the true marker of spiritual maturity. When our faith prompts love, it taps into the very power and purpose of God. This kind of faith is transformative, validating, and deeply impactful. It expresses faith in its most potent and pure form.