1 John 3:16-24 KJV: The Essence of God's Love
In the book of 1 John, chapter 3, verses 16-24, we find a profound expression of God's love for humanity. Written by the apostle John, this passage reveals the depth of God's sacrifice and the significance of our response to His love.
God's Love: A Sacrificial Act
1 John 3:16
"And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him."
Here, John emphasizes the fundamental nature of God: He is love. This concept is not just a feeling or an emotion but an inherent characteristic of God's being. His love is not just a sentiment but a sacrificial act, demonstrated through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ.
The Sacrifice of Christ
1 John 3:16 (continued)
"Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins."
The Apostle John highlights the ultimate act of love: God's willingness to send His only Son to redeem humanity from the grip of sin. This sacrifice is a testament to God's unconditional love, which surpasses human understanding.
Our Response to God's Love
1 John 3:17-18
"But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."
John emphasizes the importance of putting God's love into action. As recipients of God's love, we are called to demonstrate our love through tangible acts of kindness and compassion towards others.
The Confidence of Faith
1 John 3:19-22
"And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God."
In these verses, John highlights the confidence that comes from knowing we are of the truth. Our assurance of faith is rooted in God's character and our acceptance of His love. When we accept God's love, we can approach Him with confidence, knowing that He is greater than our doubts and fears.
The Spirit's Witness
1 John 3:23-24
"And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us."
In conclusion, John emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus Christ and loving one another. As we obey God's commandments, we demonstrate our love for Him, and the Spirit of God dwells within us, bearing witness to our faith.
