Stanley argues that this is not mushy or soft. It’s demanding. Sacrificial love removes loopholes, excuses, and the temptation to treat faith like a rulebook.
He offers a simple frame:
“What does love require of you right now?”
He believes that kind of love is the church’s most compelling apologetic. Even people who disagree with Christian beliefs often walk away impressed when they encounter Christians who actually live it.
Final Encouragement to Pastors
Near the end of the conversation, Stanley offers a word that many leaders need to hear without being coddled.
If ministry is hard, you’re doing it correctly.
He reminds pastors that faithfulness is not measured only by visibility, growth, or recognition. And he closes with a steady reminder:
Your labor is not in vain.
