1 John 3:18
Verse of the Day
Thursday, February 27, 2025
1 John 3:18
Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.
Introduction
In this brief yet powerful verse, John calls believers to embody the essence of Christian love—one that goes beyond mere words to tangible action. This verse is part of a broader discourse in 1 John 3, where the apostle emphasizes the difference between empty professions of faith and a love that is demonstrated through selfless deeds. His affectionate address, “Little children,” reflects his pastoral heart, urging his readers to live out their faith authentically.
Commentary
John’s exhortation contrasts superficial expressions of love with the kind of love that Jesus demonstrated. The Greek word for "truth" (ἀλήθεια, alētheia) in this context suggests sincerity, genuineness, and alignment with God’s will. The phrase "not in word or speech" does not mean that verbal encouragement is unimportant, but rather that words alone are insufficient if not accompanied by loving deeds.
This aligns with James 2:15-16, where James warns against telling someone in need, "Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill," without providing actual assistance. John insists that true Christian love is active and sacrificial, following the model of Christ, who laid down His life for us (1 John 3:16).
Understanding Context
John's audience consisted of early Christians facing opposition from false teachers, including those who denied Christ’s divinity and promoted a faith divorced from moral responsibility. Some claimed to belong to God but failed to exhibit love through their actions. John repeatedly emphasizes that love is the defining mark of true discipleship (John 13:35).
Furthermore, this teaching aligns with Jesus’ call to love God and neighbor (Mark 12:30-31) and reflects the biblical principle that faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Love, in biblical terms, is not merely an emotional sentiment but a commitment to act in ways that reflect God's heart.
Application for Today
This verse challenges modern believers to examine whether our love is merely spoken or genuinely demonstrated. In a world where words—especially on social media—can be plentiful but hollow, we are reminded that love must be embodied in tangible ways.
Practical applications include:
Serving Others – Volunteering at shelters, providing meals, or offering help to someone in distress.
Listening with Compassion – Being present for those struggling rather than offering empty platitudes.
Forgiving and Reaching Out – Choosing reconciliation over bitterness, even when it is difficult.
Being Generous – Using resources, time, and talents to bless others without expecting anything in return.
This verse also encourages self-reflection: Do we say we love others but fail to show it in action? Are we willing to sacrifice our comfort, time, and resources to live out Christ’s love?
Reflection
As we meditate on this passage, let us ask ourselves:
How am I actively showing love in my daily life?
Are there areas where I rely more on words than on actions?
How can I better embody Christ’s love in truth and deed?
John’s words invite us to move beyond a passive faith into an active one, reflecting the self-giving love of Christ in all that we do. May we be known not just for what we say but for how we love in truth and action.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
