1 John 4:9
In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.

Application:

John offers one of the clearest definitions of love in the Bible.

First, love is visible: God’s love has been revealed. Invisible love is not love at all.

Secondly, love is an act of the will; God sent His Son (4:9). To love someone necessitates a decision to act for their benefit.

Third, love is sacrificial. It cost God his only begotten Son. He didn’t throw you his leftovers; he provided his best. Why? So that we might live through him (4:9). He recognized our deepest need and gave of himself. If you profess love without also embracing inconvenience and being willing to give up your rights, you don’t fully grasp God’s love.

Fourth, love serves the unlovable. It’s not that we loved God, but that He loved us. We hated Him. We were fools, rebelling against the King of the universe. Nevertheless, He set His love on us. You will love people who may not respond in kind. However, they need your love nonetheless.

Fifth, love addresses sin. God sent His Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins (1 John 4:10; see 1 John 2:2). You cannot ignore sin in the body of Christ. Only Jesus can atone for our sin. However, we must, with humility and love, assist those caught in it.

References: Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 1377.

To God, be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Disclaimer

When God inspires me, I write blogs. Consider this writing as a Bible study. Like the Bereans In Acts 17:11, search the Scriptures to determine whether what I write is so. Always consult with your church ministers about biblical matters. I am also not a professional writer, so some grammar or spelling errors may be. I try my best to write as efficiently as possible. Your brother, In-Christ, Ricardo

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Check out my book “Battle Strategy: God’s Plan Amid Chaos.” It’s packed with helpful insights into Bible study and understanding. You can get a free digital version on my website. Fifty percent of the proceeds from this book go to helping children. The book covers the main biblical points and salvation, so you’ll find something valuable. 

#Jesus, #God, #HolySpirit, #Bible, #Israel, #prayer, #wisdom, #faith, #battle, #spiritual