1 John 4:9-10 NLT: The Ultimate Expression of God's Love
Introduction
In the book of 1 John, the apostle John writes to the early Christian community, emphasizing the importance of love and fellowship with God and one another. In 1 John 4:9-10, he reveals the ultimate expression of God's love through Jesus Christ. This passage is a cornerstone of Christian theology, highlighting God's profound love for humanity.
The Passage
1 John 4:9-10 NLT:
"This is how God showed his love for us: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins."
Breaking Down the Passage
God's Initiative
The passage begins with the phrase "This is how God showed his love for us." This emphasizes God's initiative in demonstrating His love for humanity. God took the first step, and His love is not a response to humanity's love for Him, but rather an outpouring of His own goodness.
The Gift of Jesus Christ
The verse continues, "God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him." This is the ultimate expression of God's love – the gift of Jesus Christ, His only Son. Jesus is the embodiment of God's love, and His presence in the world brings life to humanity.
The Definition of Love
The second part of verse 10 provides a powerful definition of love: "This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." This definition flips our conventional understanding of love upside down. Love is not about humanity's ability to love God, but rather God's unwavering love for humanity.
The Atoning Sacrifice
The passage concludes with the phrase "an atoning sacrifice for our sins." This highlights the purpose of Jesus' sacrifice – to atone for humanity's sin, reconciling us to God. This sacrifice is the ultimate expression of God's love, demonstrating His willingness to go to great lengths to restore humanity to a right relationship with Himself.
Conclusion
1 John 4:9-10 NLT is a powerful passage that reveals the depth of God's love for humanity. Through Jesus Christ, God has demonstrated His love in the most profound way possible – by giving His only Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. May this passage encourage and inspire you to reflect on the ultimate expression of God's love and to respond with gratitude and worship.
