The Results of Love

The verses at the end of chapter 4 continue to develop the concept of love.

These verses are closely connected to those covered last month as this entire passage develops the idea of verse 7, "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God."

Last month verses 7-12 explained to us the what that we are to do-"let us love one another." The verses in this sermon explain the why-"for love is from God." Combined, these two elements assure us that we are "born of God and know God." In verses 13-21 John connects our expressions of love to God's expression of love.

Understanding God's redeeming love should produce results in our lives. As we understand what God's redeeming love is it will change our thinking and affect our relationships.