John continues his exhortation of the believers scattered among the churches throughout the Roman province of Asia. The principle that God was symbolic with love was nothing new, however the revelation about brotherly love needed clarification to fully blossom among and beyond the apostle’s beloved flock.
“17 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.” (1 John 4:17)
The love of God and His Son Yeshua flow through obedient servants who are blessed to pour out brotherly love, a biblical concept by which believers reach out in the Lord’s name, for His glory rather than ourselves.
His love is perfected in us, starting from the day we are saved, in this world, then on to the narrow path which leads to the pearly gates of Heaven, where we are finally made perfect through faith and mercy.
“18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18)
John teaches us about the courage and strength that come along spiritual growth, and a closer relationship with Yahweh, our perfect, all loving Father. The apostle reveals the absence of fear in Heaven, and within the hearts of those who seek and pour out God’s love.
“19 We love Him because He first loved us. 20 If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?” (1 John 4:19-20)
Those in Christ have faith in Him because we know of His love for us, showed in the sacrifice He made on the cross, as the only begotten Son of Yahweh, the creator of the universe and all that lives in it.
Anyone who claims to be reborn of faith in Christ must abide by God’s commandments, of which brotherly love is the greatest. Anyone without fruit from the Agape tree is in danger of spreading earthly, selfish love, which bear worldly fruit, rather than God’s love that produce a harvest beyond this life.
“21 And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)
John teaches us that outpouring God’s love ranks above all other commandments. Just as our Lord did while walking among His creation, we are called to love not only our brothers and sisters in Christ, but also our enemies.
Trust in God’s word and promise. Pour out His love with such abundance, you will be mistaken for Christ Himself! By this, and through you, those who seek God will get closer to Him. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant John,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
