Love is the greatest of all virtues (1 Corinthians 13:13).  It’s mentioned in the New Testament 293 times and in John’s epistles 52 times. In today’s passage, John uses the Greek word agape. It’s the highest form of love because it seeks nothing in return, simply loving for the sake of the beloved. In his Gospel, John quotes Jesus saying, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (15:13). That is the picture of love Christians must have.

God is love and God defines love.

John was writing to a church that was being attacked by false teachers who tried to deceive them (1 John 2:26).  It was coming from within their own congregation (2:18). They were denying that Jesus was the Christ and that he came in the flesh. This was causing them to be unsure of their faith. Throughout this letter, John gives three tests that bring assurance. 

The theological test is to ask yourself if you believe Jesus was the incarnated Christ who died for sins. “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us…” (3:16, emphasis added).  The moral test was to honestly admit that you’re a sinner who regularly repents. The social test concerns having love for others.  John writes to bring confidence in what we know is true. “We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers and sisters” (3:14).  

Taking It Home: First, know his love by reflecting on his life and sacrifice. Second, join his love by repenting of sin and becoming a Christian. Third, do his love by practically loving others, not just talking about it (3:18).