Quote:
Originally Posted by rrford
The key seems to be found in verse 16 when it speaks of the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. These are referring to inordintate desires which are not compatibale to one who would "Seek firts the kingdom fo God and His righteousness."
It speaks to the process of "bringing every thought into captivity unto the knowledge of Christ." When one has adequately done that then they "are in the world, but not of the world."
Also, the word love is of significance. Perhaps to better understand what the writer is saying we would remember that Jesus said "He that hateth nor mother, father, sister, etc..." We know He was not speaking of detesting or disliking, but rather "to love less." It would seem reasonable here that the writer is saying that one cannot love these things more than God.
For the cause of love and hate both folks have been drawn away form a roght relationship with God.
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rrford,
I'm not sure it means to love less. I think when you really love your own flesh and blood you can't fathom that. I think He is just saying that whatever your interaction and relationship is with them, don't put their motivation in your life as more important than the will of God.