Lesson 12: Enduring in Love When Many Grow Cold

 

Lesson 12: 

Enduring in Love When Many Grow Cold

Scripture Reading: Matthew 24:12–13 (KJV)

"And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."

Lesson Objective

To equip believers to guard their hearts against spiritual coldness and cultivate steadfast love for God and others, even when sin and selfishness dominate society.

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Introduction

In the last days, one of the most striking signs Jesus warned about is the cooling of love among people. Sin, lawlessness, and offense will make many turn inward, protecting themselves but losing compassion. As Christ’s disciples, we must swim against this tide and keep our love ablaze.

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Key Points

1. Recognize the Danger of a Cold Heart

• Revelation 2:4–5 – "Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent..."

• Coldness often begins subtly — offense, disappointment, weariness in doing good.

• Guard against emotional numbness and apathy in your walk with God.

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2. Root Your Love in God’s Love

• Romans 5:5 – "...the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."

• Our capacity to love in the last days comes not from human strength, but from the Spirit’s continual filling.

• Stay connected to God daily through prayer, worship, and the Word.

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3. Keep Forgiveness Flowing

• Matthew 18:21–22 – Jesus tells Peter to forgive “seventy times seven.”

• Unforgiveness is one of the main reasons love grows cold.

• Release offenses quickly, refusing to let bitterness take root.

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4. Endure in Love through Action

• 1 John 3:18 – "Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."

• Keep showing kindness, even when unappreciated or rejected.

• Love is a verb—prove it with service, generosity, and mercy.

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Practical Applications

• Daily: Pray for God to fill your heart with His love.

• Weekly: Reach out intentionally to encourage someone.

• Monthly: Reflect on relationships—restore any strained ones.

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Group Discussion Questions

1. What are some modern examples of love growing cold in society?

2. How can we practically keep our spiritual passion alive?

3. Why does forgiveness play such a key role in enduring love?

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Memory Verse

Matthew 24:13 – "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."