Importance of Affection for Christ in Christian Devotion

The importance of affection for Christ in Christian devotion cannot be overstated, as it is a vital component of a healthy and thriving relationship with God. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "we know that for those who love God all things work together for good," highlighting the significance of love and affection for God in the Christian life. This affection is not merely a sentimental feeling, but a deep-seated commitment to Christ that arises from a genuine understanding of His person and work.

This truth addresses the heart of the Christian experience, as it recognizes that devotion to Christ is not simply a matter of duty or obligation, but of passionate love and affection. The Reformed tradition has long emphasized the importance of the affections in Christian devotion, with theologians such as Jonathan Edwards arguing that true religion consists in the affections, and that a lack of affection for Christ is a sign of a lukewarm or even false faith.

A common misconception is that affection for Christ is something that can be manufactured or forced, but this is not the case. Rather, true affection for Christ arises from a deep understanding of His love and grace, and a corresponding response of love and devotion from the heart. As Christians, this truth encourages them to cultivate a deeper love and affection for Christ, and to seek to know Him more intimately through prayer, Scripture, and worship.