Scripture Reference: 1 John 4:7-21
Living in Love
John has already told us that it is “by the Spirit” that we know that “He abides in us” (1 John 3:24). He now adds the thought that “we abide in Him.” Both are important and both are emphasized in this letter. As in 1 John 1:2 the writer appeals to what “we have seen.” The thought of testimony looms larger as we approach the end of the letter. The verb meaning “testify” is the same as “to witness” which occurs in 1 John 1:2, and it is found four times in chapter 5, while the noun “witness” is found six times in chapter 5. The content of the testimony is that “the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world” (an expression found only here and in John 4:42). “Savior” covers all aspects of Christ’s work for sinners, and “world” of course, the totality of the whole human race. It is a great salvation.
However, it must be stated, not all are saved, for Christ’s atoning act is adequate for the whole world, but it is necessary to “confess that Jesus is the Son of God” if one is to experience that very great salvation. Then and only then does there follow the mutual indwelling of God and the believer.
We do not read anywhere else of having “known and believed the love” (the NIV has translated the original Greek word used with “rely on,” but the meaning is said to be accurately translated “we have believed”). We may fairly say that the thought of “knowing” love is found throughout, but to “have known and believed the love that God has for us” is a most unusual expression.
The love of God is never demonstrated in such a way that the worldly-minded have to see it. It is the people of faith and the people of faith only who see it. John repeats the great thought of verse 8, “God is love,” and he draws the conclusion that to live in love is to live in God. To love other sinners is never a human achievement and where this is found through practice, it shows that God is present.
To Be Continued
FOR THE LOVE OF GOD 
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