1 | P a g e A P r o p h e t i c L i v i n g T e m p l a r w i t h i n t h e c o n t e x t o f L o v e
Sermon inspired by the theme: “A Prophetic Living Templar within the context of Love” a
call to embody sacred purpose, moral courage, and transformative love in today’s world
By Brother Matthews Bantsijang
2025 Southern Gold Grand Temple 5th Degree Summit under the theme “A Prophetic Living Templar”
Introduction
A "prophetic living" and a "Templar within the context of Love" are distinct concepts, though they can intersect
in the context of spiritual and ethical living. A prophetic life, in a religious sense, often involves a direct
connection with the divine, receiving and conveying messages or insights, while a Templar lifestyle,
particularly within the modern context, is associated with a code of chivalry, love, and service. When these
ideas are combined, it can refer to someone who lives a life guided by spiritual principles, love, and a sense
of mission or calling. A prophetic call for Templers to be the witness to the World: Reflection of God's
Character: Other Christian writers says Christian love is a reflection of God's own character and his love for
all people. The love Christians show to one another can be a powerful witness to the transformative power of
God's love in the world. Christian love is the foundation essential for building strong, healthy, and unified
Christian communities.
Defining a Prophetic Living of a Templar Living Templar within the context of Love
Christian love, often referred to as agape, is a selfless, unconditional love that mirrors God's love for humanity.
It's not based on emotions or feelings, but on a conscious decision to prioritize the well-being of others, even
those who are difficult or unlovable. This love is characterised by patience, kindness, forgiveness, and a
willingness to sacrifice. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: This passage is a classic description of love, highlighting its
attributes such as patience, kindness, humility, and perseverance.
• Unconditional: Christian love doesn't depend on the worthiness of the recipient. It's offered
freely, regardless of whether the other person is kind or unkind, deserving or undeserving.
• Selfless: It prioritizes the needs and well-being of others above one's own desires and
preferences.
• Sacrificial: It involves a willingness to give of oneself, including time, resources, and even one's
life, for the benefit of others. Romans 5:8: God demonstrated his love for humanity by sending
his son, Jesus, to die for our sins.
• Forgiving: It extends grace and forgiveness to those who have wronged us, just as God
forgives us.
• Patient and Kind: It is characterized by long-suffering, gentleness, and a desire to build others
up.
• Active: It's not just a feeling, but a choice to act in loving ways, showing compassion, empathy,
and generosity.
2 | P a g e A P r o p h e t i c L i v i n g T e m p l a r w i t h i n t h e c o n t e x t o f L o v e
Prophetic Living
Religious Context:
In many religious traditions, prophets are Templars who receive divine revelations and convey messages to
their communities or humanity.
Spiritual Insight:
Prophetic living can also refer to a broader approach to life where one seeks to live in accordance with higher
spiritual truths and principles, acting as a conduit for divine wisdom and guidance.
Examples:
Figures like the prophets of the Old Testament (Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah) or figures like Jesus in the Christian
tradition, are examples of prophetic figures.
Characteristics:
Prophetic living often involves a strong sense of calling, a commitment to truth and justice, and a willingness
to challenge the status quo.
Templar within the context of Love
Modern Interpretations:
While the historical Knights Templar were a military order, modern interpretations of a "Templar" lifestyle
often emphasise chivalry, honour, and a dedication to serving others.
Love and Compassion:
This aspect emphasises a life lived with love, compassion, and empathy for others, reflecting the ideals of a
loving and just world.
Service and Duty:
A Templar spirit in this context can mean a commitment to fulfilling one's duties with integrity and a sense of
purpose, often extending to acts of service and protection.
Examples:
Modern interpretations may draw inspiration from the Templar ideals of courage, integrity, and service,
applying them to contemporary contexts.
📖 Scripture Foundation
- Micah 6:8 – “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly
and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
- John 13:34–35 – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one
another.”
A. Prophet Micah: The verse comes from the book of Micah, a prophet who ministered in Judah during the
8th century BC, alongside Isaiah. God is depicted as bringing a legal case against Israel for their covenant
unfaithfulness. He points out their hypocrisy in offering sacrifices while ignoring justice and mercy. (Micah
6:1-8)
3 | P a g e A P r o p h e t i c L i v i n g T e m p l a r w i t h i n t h e c o n t e x t o f L o v e
- Micah 6:8 is a well-known verse that summarises God's requirements for His people: to do justice, love
kindness, and walk humbly with God. It emphasises that true worship involves not just religious rituals, but
also righteous living and compassion towards others. The Israelites were engaging in idolatry, oppression of
the poor, and social injustice, despite their outward religious practices. In response to their wrongdoing, God
calls them to "do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God." This is not a suggestion but a divine
expectation.
B. John 13:34-35 establishes a "new commandment" for Jesus' followers: to love one another as He has
loved them. Jesus' discourse at the Last Supper, immediately after washing the feet of his disciples. This act
of service foreshadows the ultimate act of love – His sacrifice on the cross.
This love is not merely a suggestion but a defining characteristic of discipleship, reflecting Jesus' own
sacrificial love and serving as a powerful witness to the world. Transformative Power results is Templers love,
when practiced, has the power to transform lives, foster unity, and impact the world around believers.
🔥 I. The Prophetic Call: Living Beyond Convention
- Prophetic living is not merely foretelling but forth-telling, speaking truth to power and embodying divine
justice. The prophetic life is a life of truth, courage, and compassion, not silence in the face of injustice.
To be a Templar is to live with reverence for God, for others, and for the mission of justice. Love is the
prophetic fire and the Templar’s foundation is the way we build God’s kingdom on earth. John 13:34-35:
Jesus commands his followers to love one another as he has loved them, emphasizing the importance of
unity and love within the Christian community.
🏛️ II. The Templar Identity: Sacred Citizenship
- A Templar is one who sees life as a sacred temple where every action is worship, every relationship is
covenant.
- Drawing from Bantsijang’s reflections on cultural identity and spiritual grounding, a Templar lives with
discipline, unity, and purpose.
- This identity is shaped by community, tradition, and a commitment to transformation.
❤️ III. Living with Love: The Greatest Commandment
- Love is not sentimental, it is sacrificial, radical, and redemptive.
- Love is the force that binds prophetic vision and Templar discipline into a life of holy resistance and healing.
🌍 IV. Application: Living the Sermon
- In Leadership: Lead with integrity, accountability, and vision.
- In Community: Uplift the poor, advocate for justice, and build unity.
- In Spiritual Life: Pray boldly, live humbly, and love deeply.
Combining the Concepts: Living a Prophetic Life of Love:
A person living a prophetic life of love might be someone who, guided by spiritual insights and a commitment
to divine principles, lives a life characterised by love, compassion, and service to others.
Living a Templar Life with Prophetic Vision:
Conversely, a Templar living with prophetic vision might be someone who, committed to chivalry and service,
also possesses a deep spiritual understanding and a desire to bring about positive change in the world.
4 | P a g e A P r o p h e t i c L i v i n g T e m p l a r w i t h i n t h e c o n t e x t o f L o v e
Five things we learn about love from the Bible.
1. Love is the Essence of What God Requires. When Jesus was asked what the greatest.
2. God is Love. 1 John 4:8 tells us that the one who does not love does not know God because God is
love. Therefore, when we read the descriptors of love in 1 Corinthians 13 – love is patient, kind, not conceited
or selfish, forgives, bears all things, etc. – we get a glimpse of the character of God. Jesus shows us the nature
and character of God the Father (see John 14:9) and Jesus shows us the nature of love.
3. We Love Because God First Loved Us (see 1 John 4:19). We must first be willing to receive the love
that God has for us in Christ. 1 John 4:7-12: This passage emphasises that love comes from God and that
Templars are called to love one another.
4. Love is Sacrificial. How did God demonstrate His love according to Romans 5:8? At great cost! The
Bible tells us that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself (2 Cor. 5:19). “For God so loved the world
that He gave…” (John 3:16). Love is giving and sacrificial.
5. Love is a Quality not an Emotion. One of the most radical things Jesus taught His followers was to
love their enemies. Love is a characteristic and quality in the hearts of those who follow Jesus and allow His
love to flow through them. God demonstrated His love towards us in that while we were still rebels against
Him, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).
Conclusion
A Templar who fights for social justice, inspired by divine guidance and driven by love, could be
seen as embodying both prophetic and Templar ideals. “Let us be prophets of truth, Templers of
sacred purpose, and lovers of humanity. For in such living, we do not merely preach the gospel, but
we become it.” In essence, the combination of "prophetic living" and "Templar living with love"
suggests a life Based on Matthews Bantsijang’s intellectual and theological ethos. Mark of a True
Templar: Tamplars leaders say the ability to love others, especially those who are different or
difficult, is a hallmark of a true follower of Christ.

Sermon inspired by the theme A Prophetic Living of a Templer Living with Love by Brother Matthews Bantsijang

  • 1.
    1 | Pa g e A P r o p h e t i c L i v i n g T e m p l a r w i t h i n t h e c o n t e x t o f L o v e Sermon inspired by the theme: “A Prophetic Living Templar within the context of Love” a call to embody sacred purpose, moral courage, and transformative love in today’s world By Brother Matthews Bantsijang 2025 Southern Gold Grand Temple 5th Degree Summit under the theme “A Prophetic Living Templar” Introduction A "prophetic living" and a "Templar within the context of Love" are distinct concepts, though they can intersect in the context of spiritual and ethical living. A prophetic life, in a religious sense, often involves a direct connection with the divine, receiving and conveying messages or insights, while a Templar lifestyle, particularly within the modern context, is associated with a code of chivalry, love, and service. When these ideas are combined, it can refer to someone who lives a life guided by spiritual principles, love, and a sense of mission or calling. A prophetic call for Templers to be the witness to the World: Reflection of God's Character: Other Christian writers says Christian love is a reflection of God's own character and his love for all people. The love Christians show to one another can be a powerful witness to the transformative power of God's love in the world. Christian love is the foundation essential for building strong, healthy, and unified Christian communities. Defining a Prophetic Living of a Templar Living Templar within the context of Love Christian love, often referred to as agape, is a selfless, unconditional love that mirrors God's love for humanity. It's not based on emotions or feelings, but on a conscious decision to prioritize the well-being of others, even those who are difficult or unlovable. This love is characterised by patience, kindness, forgiveness, and a willingness to sacrifice. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: This passage is a classic description of love, highlighting its attributes such as patience, kindness, humility, and perseverance. • Unconditional: Christian love doesn't depend on the worthiness of the recipient. It's offered freely, regardless of whether the other person is kind or unkind, deserving or undeserving. • Selfless: It prioritizes the needs and well-being of others above one's own desires and preferences. • Sacrificial: It involves a willingness to give of oneself, including time, resources, and even one's life, for the benefit of others. Romans 5:8: God demonstrated his love for humanity by sending his son, Jesus, to die for our sins. • Forgiving: It extends grace and forgiveness to those who have wronged us, just as God forgives us. • Patient and Kind: It is characterized by long-suffering, gentleness, and a desire to build others up. • Active: It's not just a feeling, but a choice to act in loving ways, showing compassion, empathy, and generosity.
  • 2.
    2 | Pa g e A P r o p h e t i c L i v i n g T e m p l a r w i t h i n t h e c o n t e x t o f L o v e Prophetic Living Religious Context: In many religious traditions, prophets are Templars who receive divine revelations and convey messages to their communities or humanity. Spiritual Insight: Prophetic living can also refer to a broader approach to life where one seeks to live in accordance with higher spiritual truths and principles, acting as a conduit for divine wisdom and guidance. Examples: Figures like the prophets of the Old Testament (Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah) or figures like Jesus in the Christian tradition, are examples of prophetic figures. Characteristics: Prophetic living often involves a strong sense of calling, a commitment to truth and justice, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Templar within the context of Love Modern Interpretations: While the historical Knights Templar were a military order, modern interpretations of a "Templar" lifestyle often emphasise chivalry, honour, and a dedication to serving others. Love and Compassion: This aspect emphasises a life lived with love, compassion, and empathy for others, reflecting the ideals of a loving and just world. Service and Duty: A Templar spirit in this context can mean a commitment to fulfilling one's duties with integrity and a sense of purpose, often extending to acts of service and protection. Examples: Modern interpretations may draw inspiration from the Templar ideals of courage, integrity, and service, applying them to contemporary contexts. 📖 Scripture Foundation - Micah 6:8 – “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” - John 13:34–35 – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” A. Prophet Micah: The verse comes from the book of Micah, a prophet who ministered in Judah during the 8th century BC, alongside Isaiah. God is depicted as bringing a legal case against Israel for their covenant unfaithfulness. He points out their hypocrisy in offering sacrifices while ignoring justice and mercy. (Micah 6:1-8)
  • 3.
    3 | Pa g e A P r o p h e t i c L i v i n g T e m p l a r w i t h i n t h e c o n t e x t o f L o v e - Micah 6:8 is a well-known verse that summarises God's requirements for His people: to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. It emphasises that true worship involves not just religious rituals, but also righteous living and compassion towards others. The Israelites were engaging in idolatry, oppression of the poor, and social injustice, despite their outward religious practices. In response to their wrongdoing, God calls them to "do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God." This is not a suggestion but a divine expectation. B. John 13:34-35 establishes a "new commandment" for Jesus' followers: to love one another as He has loved them. Jesus' discourse at the Last Supper, immediately after washing the feet of his disciples. This act of service foreshadows the ultimate act of love – His sacrifice on the cross. This love is not merely a suggestion but a defining characteristic of discipleship, reflecting Jesus' own sacrificial love and serving as a powerful witness to the world. Transformative Power results is Templers love, when practiced, has the power to transform lives, foster unity, and impact the world around believers. 🔥 I. The Prophetic Call: Living Beyond Convention - Prophetic living is not merely foretelling but forth-telling, speaking truth to power and embodying divine justice. The prophetic life is a life of truth, courage, and compassion, not silence in the face of injustice. To be a Templar is to live with reverence for God, for others, and for the mission of justice. Love is the prophetic fire and the Templar’s foundation is the way we build God’s kingdom on earth. John 13:34-35: Jesus commands his followers to love one another as he has loved them, emphasizing the importance of unity and love within the Christian community. 🏛️ II. The Templar Identity: Sacred Citizenship - A Templar is one who sees life as a sacred temple where every action is worship, every relationship is covenant. - Drawing from Bantsijang’s reflections on cultural identity and spiritual grounding, a Templar lives with discipline, unity, and purpose. - This identity is shaped by community, tradition, and a commitment to transformation. ❤️ III. Living with Love: The Greatest Commandment - Love is not sentimental, it is sacrificial, radical, and redemptive. - Love is the force that binds prophetic vision and Templar discipline into a life of holy resistance and healing. 🌍 IV. Application: Living the Sermon - In Leadership: Lead with integrity, accountability, and vision. - In Community: Uplift the poor, advocate for justice, and build unity. - In Spiritual Life: Pray boldly, live humbly, and love deeply. Combining the Concepts: Living a Prophetic Life of Love: A person living a prophetic life of love might be someone who, guided by spiritual insights and a commitment to divine principles, lives a life characterised by love, compassion, and service to others. Living a Templar Life with Prophetic Vision: Conversely, a Templar living with prophetic vision might be someone who, committed to chivalry and service, also possesses a deep spiritual understanding and a desire to bring about positive change in the world.
  • 4.
    4 | Pa g e A P r o p h e t i c L i v i n g T e m p l a r w i t h i n t h e c o n t e x t o f L o v e Five things we learn about love from the Bible. 1. Love is the Essence of What God Requires. When Jesus was asked what the greatest. 2. God is Love. 1 John 4:8 tells us that the one who does not love does not know God because God is love. Therefore, when we read the descriptors of love in 1 Corinthians 13 – love is patient, kind, not conceited or selfish, forgives, bears all things, etc. – we get a glimpse of the character of God. Jesus shows us the nature and character of God the Father (see John 14:9) and Jesus shows us the nature of love. 3. We Love Because God First Loved Us (see 1 John 4:19). We must first be willing to receive the love that God has for us in Christ. 1 John 4:7-12: This passage emphasises that love comes from God and that Templars are called to love one another. 4. Love is Sacrificial. How did God demonstrate His love according to Romans 5:8? At great cost! The Bible tells us that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself (2 Cor. 5:19). “For God so loved the world that He gave…” (John 3:16). Love is giving and sacrificial. 5. Love is a Quality not an Emotion. One of the most radical things Jesus taught His followers was to love their enemies. Love is a characteristic and quality in the hearts of those who follow Jesus and allow His love to flow through them. God demonstrated His love towards us in that while we were still rebels against Him, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Conclusion A Templar who fights for social justice, inspired by divine guidance and driven by love, could be seen as embodying both prophetic and Templar ideals. “Let us be prophets of truth, Templers of sacred purpose, and lovers of humanity. For in such living, we do not merely preach the gospel, but we become it.” In essence, the combination of "prophetic living" and "Templar living with love" suggests a life Based on Matthews Bantsijang’s intellectual and theological ethos. Mark of a True Templar: Tamplars leaders say the ability to love others, especially those who are different or difficult, is a hallmark of a true follower of Christ.