Scripture Spotlight: 1 John 4:7-12 (ESV)
Setting the Stage: How does viewing love as a divine gift from God, rather than merely a human emotion, redefine its nature, source, and purpose?
In a world filled with many definitions of love, John calls us back to the source. The phrase “love is from God” tells us that love has its origin in God’s nature; it proceeds from Him and has its beginning in Him (1 John 4:7 ESV).
Upon close analysis of 1 John 4:7 ESV, it becomes clear that love is not a human emotion, but an essential component of God’s character. According to John, God is not just doing loving things; He is love (1 John 4:8, 16). Love is the core of His character.
Think of it this way: just as fire inevitably produces heat, God always emits love because that is His very nature. It (love) existed before creation within the Trinity. God is a loving community of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, whose life is centered on eternally giving themselves to one another (1 John 4:13-14 ESV)
And because God loved us first (1 John 4:19 ESV), we are able to truly love. The Holy Spirit pours this divine, selfless love into our hearts, empowering us to love others with a capacity that goes beyond our own nature.
Stop and Think:
- What does it mean that “love is from God” rather than just a human emotion?
- John states, “God is love” (1 John 4:8, 16). Why is it significant that love is defined by His nature, rather than just something He does?
Presently, many contemporary understandings of love center on personal gain or transient feelings. John's biblical definition, known as Agape (ἀγάπη)—a sacrificial, action-oriented love for others regardless of feelings, offers a stark contrast:
- Sacrificial vs. Self-Centered: Whereas worldly love often seeks personal gain, God’s love is defined by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross—unconditionally giving one's life for others, regardless of merit.
- Eternal vs. Temporary: While worldly affection is fleeting and driven by superficial desires—the "lust of the eyes" (1 John 2:16 NIV)—divine love remains constant and everlasting, originating from an eternal God.
- Holy vs. Permissive: Divine love cannot be separated from God’s character of justice and purity. It moves beyond being merely "nice" or permissive; instead, it focuses on what is truly necessary for a person's spiritual health.
Finally, in 1 John 4:7-12 ESV, love is presented as the essential evidence of a transformed life. If we love, it proves we are born of God; if we do not love, it shows we do not know Him, as love is the core of His character.
Closing Prayer: "Lord, we praise You for being love itself and for sending Your Son to save us. Help us abide in Your love and reflect Your heart to the world. Amen."
In God's name,
Amy
