Pastor McMath

Biblical Love

Text: 1 John 3:10–16

Preached at Valley Bible Baptist Church

Introduction

• Ephesians teaches that we are sealed at salvation and that our lives should reflect that by how we love others.
• Related verses:
• 1 John 2:29; 4:7
• Our new nature has a desire to please God.
• Chastening and discipline are signs of true salvation.
• Those born of God have the Spirit of Truth.

Loving the brethren is a clear sign of God's love in us.

God's Spirit transforms the life of His children.

“God is able to love through you in a way that you cannot love on your own.”

The world needs to see love in action.

1. The Admonition from God to Love

1 John 3:10–11, 23

• If God commands us to love, He will also empower us to do it.
• Christ’s love separates us from mere religion.

John 15:12 – Christ is the greatest example of love.

1 John 4:7 – Love is of God.

2. The Application (Attitude) of Love

1 John 3:12

• A negative example is seen in Cain.

(See Genesis 4 for context.)

• Cain’s envy led to hatred.
• 1 John 3:13 – Envy leads to hatred.
• Hatred is equated with murder.
• 1 John 3:15
• Bitterness goes against the nature of God.
• Ephesians 4:22–32

“Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God”—grief comes from a place of love.1 John 3:14

3. The Action of Love

1 John 3:18

a. Love’s Sacrifice

1 John 3:16

b. Love’s Compassion

1 John 3:17

Romans 12

4. The Assurance of Love

1 John 3:19–20

Matthew 18 – We must forgive as the Lord has forgiven us.

Assurance in Prayer

1 John 3:24

Biblical love is not just an emotion;

it is an action that reveals Christ in us to a world that desperately needs Him.

Do others see Jesus in you?