Day 29: Doctrine and Love

Scripture Reading:

“But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, that is Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15, LSB

Doctrine and love are not opposites—they are partners. Paul commands us to speak the truth in love so that the church may grow into Christ. Truth without love can be harsh, but love without truth can be empty. Together, they strengthen the body.

Doctrine ensures that our love is not blind sentimentality but rooted in God’s Word. Without doctrine, love quickly compromises truth in the name of unity. John Calvin observed, “Truth and love must be joined together; if they are separated, both are destroyed” (Commentary on Ephesians 4:15).

At the same time, doctrine without love becomes cold and lifeless. Louis Berkhof warned, “Doctrine is not a mere intellectual concern, but is vitally related to life” (Systematic Theology, p. 25). Doctrine must be lived out in love toward God and others.

R.C. Sproul explained, “We are called to a faith that works through love. That love is guided by the truth of God’s Word” (Essential Truths of the Christian Faith, p. 45). Truth directs love; love adorns truth.

When the church separates truth and love, she falters. Truth without love divides. Love without truth deceives. But when truth is spoken in love, the church matures, unity is preserved, and Christ is exalted.

Beloved, doctrine and love together build the church’s health. Doctrine provides the foundation, and love provides the expression. Together they reflect Christ, who is full of grace and truth (John 1:14).

Personal Reflection

1. Why must truth and love always be joined together?

2. What dangers arise when doctrine is separated from love?

3. How does Ephesians 4:15 show that truth and love together produce maturity?

4. How can your church practice speaking the truth in love more faithfully?