1 John 4:17 NIV: The Confidence of God's Love
In 1 John 4:17, the apostle John writes, "Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world." (NIV) This verse highlights the confidence that comes from knowing and experiencing God's unconditional love.
The Context of 1 John 4:17
The book of 1 John is a letter written by the apostle John to early Christian communities. In chapter 4, John emphasizes the importance of loving one another, stating that God is love and that those who abide in Him must also love one another (1 John 4:7-8). John then goes on to explain that God's love for us is not based on our worthiness, but on His own nature and character.
The Message of 1 John 4:17
In verse 17, John highlights the consequence of experiencing God's love. When we understand and receive God's love, we can have boldness, or confidence, in the day of judgment. This confidence is not based on our own righteousness, but on the righteousness of Christ, who has made us righteous (2 Corinthians 5:21).
The phrase "as he is, so are we in this world" suggests that our identity is tied to Christ's identity. Because we are in Christ, we can have the same confidence that He has. This confidence is not arrogance, but rather a humble recognition of our position in Christ.
The Implications of 1 John 4:17
So, what are the implications of 1 John 4:17 for our daily lives?
- Confidence in prayer: When we understand God's love for us, we can approach prayer with confidence, knowing that God hears us and desires to communicate with us.
- Freedom from fear: The love of God casts out fear (1 John 4:18), and when we understand His love, we can live free from the fear of judgment or rejection.
- Boldness in witness: With the confidence that comes from knowing God's love, we can boldly share the Gospel with others, knowing that we are ambassadors for Christ.
Conclusion
In 1 John 4:17, we are reminded that God's love for us is not based on our own worthiness, but on His own character and nature. As we receive and understand this love, we can have confidence in the day of judgment, and live boldly as ambassadors for Christ.
