1 John 4:20 KJV: The Ultimate Test of Love
What does it mean to love God?
In 1 John 4:20, the apostle John writes, "If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?" (KJV). This verse presents a powerful and challenging message about the nature of love and our relationship with God.
The Test of Love
John's statement can be seen as a test of whether our profession of loving God is genuine. If we claim to love God, but fail to demonstrate love towards our fellow human beings, our profession is invalid. This is because love is not just a feeling, but an action that manifests itself in our relationships with others.
Seeing God in Others
The phrase "his brother whom he hath seen" is crucial in understanding John's message. When we interact with our brothers and sisters in Christ, we are, in fact, interacting with representatives of God's kingdom. By loving them, we demonstrate our love for God, who is invisible. Conversely, if we are unable to love those around us, how can we claim to love an invisible God?
A Call to Action
So, what does this mean for us practically? It means that our love for God must be demonstrated through our love for others. It is not enough to simply profess our love for God; we must show it through our actions. We must be willing to serve, forgive, and show kindness to those around us, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Conclusion
1 John 4:20 KJV presents a challenging message, but one that is essential for our spiritual growth. By recognizing the importance of loving our brothers and sisters, we can demonstrate our genuine love for God. Let us strive to pass the test of love, and may our actions speak louder than our words.
Scripture
1 John 4:20 KJV If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?
