1 John 4:20-21
Verse of the Day
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
1 John 4:20-21
Those who say, “I love God,” and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.
Introduction
1 John 4:20-21 presents a powerful call to love and unity, emphasizing the inseparable link between love for God and love for one another. These verses challenge us to examine the authenticity of our faith by how we treat others, particularly our brothers and sisters in Christ. This passage serves as both a mirror and a guide for our spiritual walk, urging us to embody the love that God has for us.
Commentary
This passage is a bold declaration about the nature of love in the Christian life. John emphasizes that love for God cannot exist in isolation from love for others. The word "liars" underscores the incompatibility of professing devotion to God while harboring hatred or neglecting the well-being of others.
The rationale is clear: God, though unseen, is manifest in His creation, particularly in humanity, which bears His image. If one cannot love those who are tangible and present, it is logically and spiritually impossible to claim genuine love for God. This teaching echoes Jesus' own words when He summarized the law as loving God and loving one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40).
John concludes by reiterating this divine commandment, making it not optional but essential to the Christian faith. Loving others is both the evidence and the fulfillment of our love for God.
Understanding Context
The Apostle John wrote this letter to a community struggling with internal divisions and false teachings. Some members were prioritizing intellectual or mystical experiences over the ethical demands of love. John firmly counters this by grounding authentic faith in love that is both relational and actionable. His use of stark contrasts—love versus hate, truth versus lies—was intended to call believers to examine their hearts and align their lives with the Gospel.
The context of this passage also reflects a broader biblical theme: God’s love for humanity is demonstrated through Jesus Christ, and this love calls for a reciprocal response—not only toward God but toward one another. To love one’s brother or sister is to reflect the very nature of God Himself.
Application for Today
1. Examine Our Hearts: In a world rife with division, this passage calls us to reflect on how our attitudes and actions toward others align with our professed love for God. Are there individuals or groups we struggle to love? How can we address these barriers?
2. Practice Love in Action: Love is not just a feeling; it is demonstrated through deeds. This passage encourages us to actively seek ways to show love to those around us, especially within our faith communities. Acts of kindness, forgiveness, and reconciliation are tangible expressions of love.
3. Bridge Divides: Whether in our families, churches, or broader communities, this passage challenges us to be peacemakers and bridge-builders. It reminds us that love is not selective; it encompasses all people, even those who may be difficult to love.
4. Deepen Our Love for God: Loving others deepens our connection with God. When we serve and care for others, we are participating in His divine nature, as love originates from Him.
Reflection
Take a moment to consider: Who in your life do you find difficult to love? Reflect on how God’s unconditional love has been extended to you, even in moments when you were unlovable. How can you allow this truth to transform your relationships?
Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance to live out the commandment to love others as an expression of your love for God. Ask for the grace to overcome any barriers to love, so that your faith may shine authentically and draw others to the God who is love.
By embracing this teaching, we not only strengthen our relationship with God but also become conduits of His love, fulfilling the commandment that is central to the Christian life.
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.
