This word has a significant place in the lives of faithful New Testament believers. 1 Peter 4:8 reminds us of an incredible calling that is too often abandoned by those in Christ’s church, because due to some circumstance(s) or situation(s), they are unwilling to personally function in a biblical manner.
“Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.”
I’ve sadly learned (as a result of 45+ years of ministry) that Christians, even including those that say they’re truly committed to the things of the Lord, will boldly and willingly ignore this admonition to protect their own feelings, allowing their love for themselves to take authority and first place over the Truth of God’s Word.
In 1 Peter 4:8 the Greek word, “ektenee” translated “fervent” in English, implies that one is being intently stretched out without end (consistently and constantly). Just as God’s love knows no end, our love for one another should never be surrendered for the sake of a popular perspective (peer pressure), personal agenda, unresolved issues/conflicts, or simply due to one’s own feelings and undealt-with offenses.
Unquestionably, the participants in Christ’s Church must practice “love for one another” in order for the body to effectively serve and minister one to another.
In Acts 12:5, “the church of God” is found praying “fervently” for Peter during his imprisonment in Jerusalem. You may recall how the Lord answered this prayer by sending an angel to lead Peter miraculously out of confinement.
That evening, the church was gathered for prayer at the home of John Mark’s mother, and when Peter showed up they failed to believe the report of Rhoda who left him standing outside at the door. Ultimately, they opened the door and were “amazed” when they saw him. (Acts 12:16)
One of the most familiar verses employing “fervent” is found in James 5:16-17 where some English bibles translate the Greek word “energeo” as “effective,” but it actually carries the broader meaning of “effective fervent” (KJV, NKJV) as a combined concept.
Then in verse 17, the Revised Standard Version and the English Standard Version employs the word “fervently” rather than earnest or earnestly, as found in other English translations. Nonetheless, the translation remains true to the original intent of the biblical text … praying diligently!
Today it is essential for our well-being as individual believers, and for the effectiveness of Christ’s church that meets at West Oaks Fellowship in 2021, to be/keep “fervent” in love … for one another and in prayer!
Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart.
1 Peter 1:22-23
The effective (diligent, fervent) prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.
James 5:16
The idea of being “fervent” has the potential of bringing about some incredible positive consequences for each of us individually, as well as in the Lord’s work on earth through His church.
Here’s today’s question, “How are you doing with this whole idea of “fervent” or fervency / fervently?
Lord, may we be “fervent” in things that truly matter!
His & yours,
Pastor Frank