In this message, Pastor delves into Song of Solomon Chapter 5, emphasizing its focus on love in three dimensions: marital, spiritual, and relational. He opens by contrasting the distorted views of love influenced by media with the true definition of love found in Christ, who epitomizes unconditional love despite human flaws and incompatibilities.

The narrative of Chapter 5 is explored through the bride's dream, where her groom arrives late at night after a long journey, asking her to open the door. She hesitates and offers trivial excuses, paralleling how people often make excuses to avoid spending time with God. Pastor highlights that just as the bride's excuses were poor, so too are our excuses for not growing closer to God and our loved ones. The bride later regrets her decision, reflecting how people often regret missed opportunities for connection.

Pastor then transitions to the relational aspects of love, stressing the importance of building deep, meaningful relationships rather than superficial ones. He points out that true friendships and marriages are tested and strengthened through difficulties, not just good times. Online friendships are critiqued for their superficiality, contrasting with the depth of relationships built on genuine connection and shared challenges.

He continues by examining the bride’s detailed and poetic description of her beloved in verses 10-16, noting that her ability to quickly and vividly describe him signifies deep affection and understanding. This leads to a discussion on the need for continuous appreciation and acknowledgment in relationships. The analogy of a husband who never reaffirms his love after marriage serves as a reminder that ongoing affirmation is crucial.

Pastor connects this to the church’s relationship with Christ in Revelation 2, where the church of Ephesus is commended for its works but criticized for abandoning its first love. He warns against performing religious duties without genuine love for God, urging believers to remember, repent, and return to their initial devotion. This process involves recognizing where one has strayed, turning back to God, and re-engaging in foundational practices like prayer, reading the Bible, and serving with genuine intent.

The sermon concludes by emphasizing the role of friendship within marriage and with God. Pastor argues that being a friend is vital because friendships endure when romantic love wanes. He highlights that God, as a perfect friend, loves us despite our flaws and encourages believers to embody this in their relationships.

In closing, Pastor prays for strengthened marriages, friendships, and relationships with God, encouraging the congregation to reflect on their love and devotion.