1 John 3:17
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But whoso hath this worlds good - Here is a test of this love; if we do not divide our bread with the hungry, we certainly would not lay down our life for him. Whatever love we may pretend to mankind, if we are not charitable and benevolent, we give the lie to our profession. If we have not bowels of compassion, we have not the love of God in us; if we shut up our bowels against the poor, we shut Christ out of our hearts, and ourselves out of heaven. This world's good. - Του βιον του κοσμου· The life of this world, i.e. the means of life; for so βιος is often used. See Mar 12:44; Luk 8:43; Luk 15:12, Luk 15:30; Luk 21:4, and other places. How dwelleth the love of God in him? - That is, it cannot possibly dwell in such a person. Hardheartedness and God's love never meet together, much less can they be associated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
this world's good--literally, "livelihood" or substance. If we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren (Jo1 3:16), how much more ought we not to withhold our substance? seeth--not merely casually, but deliberately contemplates as a spectator; Greek, "beholds." shutteth up his bowels of compassion--which had been momentarily opened by the spectacle of his brother's need. The "bowels" mean the heart, the seat of compassion. how--How is it possible that "the love of (that is, 'to') God dwelleth (Greek, 'abideth') in him?" Our superfluities should yield to the necessities; our comforts, and even our necessaries in some measure, should yield to the extreme wants of our brethren. "Faith gives Christ to me; love flowing from faith gives me to my neighbor."
John Gill Bible Commentary
My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue,.... Which though it holds good of love to God, and to Jesus Christ, yet here is to be understood of love to the brethren, as the context shows; and so the Syriac version reads, "let us not love one another in word", &c. that is, without the heart, or with a double heart; speaking one thing with the lip, and designing another thing in the heart; speaking peaceably with the mouth, and with the heart laying wait; or we should not love in this manner "only"; and so the Arabic version of De Dieu adds. It is very lawful, and right to express our love to one another, and to all men in words, to give good words, and use courteous language, and speak in a kind, tender, and affectionate manner, and especially to persons in distress; but this should not be all, it will be of no avail to say to such, be warmed and filled, and give them nothing but these good words, nothing to warm and fill them with; see Jam 2:15; but in deed and in truth; for true love is a laborious and operative grace, hence we read of the work and labour of love; it shows itself by the saints serving one another, in spirituals; as by bearing one another's burdens, forbearing with, and forgiving one another, praying for each other, and building up one another on their most holy faith; exhorting each other to the duties of religion, and not suffering sins upon one another, but admonish in love, and restore with meekness; and in temporals, distributing to the necessities of the saints, ministering: to them of their worldly substance, and supplying their daily wants: and this is loving "in deed", or "in work"; this is actual love, love in fact, and what is apparent and evident: and it is "in truth", when it is in reality, and not in show only; and when it is cordially and heartily done, with cheerfulness, and without grudging.
1 John 3:17
Love One Another
16By this we know what love is: Jesus laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.17If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Who Is Looking at You by K P Yohannan
By K.P. Yohannan1.4K02:58MAT 22:39GAL 6:2PHP 2:4JAS 1:271JN 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of shifting our focus from ourselves to others, highlighting how self-centered pursuits can lead to emptiness and a lack of meaning in life. The speaker shares observations from traveling and watching people in airports, noting how individuals often believe everyone is looking at them when in reality, people are focused on themselves. The key lesson is to prioritize thinking about others, serving those in need, and aligning our actions with God's will to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.
Marks of True Children of God - Part 2
By William MacDonald1.2K42:29Children Of GodHEB 10:251JN 2:151JN 3:101JN 3:17In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a mother who was willing to give both of her kidneys to save her son's life. The preacher emphasizes the importance of love and having a servant's spirit. They highlight the need to listen to the lessons that love teaches us and the difficulty of expressing love. The sermon also discusses the test of love and how it is a characteristic of a true believer who loves God.
Cd Gv285 Big Vision
By George Verwer63500:00PSA 37:4MAT 6:33ACT 2:41ACT 20:312TI 2:15JAS 1:271JN 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of taking action in spreading the word of God. They acknowledge the progress that has been made in the world of missions but stress that it will not be completed unless individuals actively participate. The speaker encourages Christians to have a vision and to think big in their efforts to reach others with the gospel. They also highlight the need for consolidation within the mission movement and the importance of having a biblical foundation for missions. The sermon concludes with a call for churches to prioritize world missions and to become more informed and involved in missionary work.
What Do I Get Out of It?
By K.P. Yohannan0Selflessness in ServiceFaith and CommitmentMAT 19:27MAT 25:40MRK 1:17LUK 9:622CO 5:15PHP 2:3HEB 6:10HEB 12:2JAS 4:31JN 3:17K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the self-centered mindset that often accompanies our decisions, even in spiritual matters, as illustrated by Peter and Andrew's initial question to Jesus about their rewards for following Him. He challenges believers to move beyond asking 'What do I get out of it?' and instead focus on the eternal impact of their actions, particularly in missions and service to others. Yohannan highlights the importance of spiritual maturity and faith, urging Christians to prioritize the needs of the lost over personal gain. He shares examples of sacrificial giving and commitment from individuals who serve without seeking personal benefits, illustrating the joy that comes from serving God faithfully. Ultimately, he reassures that God remembers our efforts and will meet our needs as we labor for His kingdom.
Inward and Outward Sacrifices
By Zac Poonen0SacrificeDiscipleshipMAT 6:21MAT 25:40LUK 9:23ROM 12:12CO 9:7GAL 6:2PHP 2:4HEB 10:24JAS 2:171JN 3:17Zac Poonen emphasizes the need for a balance between inward and outward sacrifices in the Christian life, warning against the tendency to focus solely on internal spirituality while neglecting practical acts of service and sacrifice for others. He points out that Jesus and the apostles exemplified this balance, demonstrating that true discipleship involves both personal commitment and outward action to bless others. Poonen challenges believers to examine their priorities, noting that what we prioritize often reveals our true worship, and cautions against the deception of thinking we are spiritually mature while living selfishly. He calls for a genuine commitment to sacrifice time, energy, and resources for the sake of the gospel and others, rather than succumbing to the comforts of modern life. Ultimately, he urges Christians to align their lives with the sacrificial example of Christ, moving beyond mere knowledge to a life of active love and service.
1 John 3:17
By John Gill0Love for NeighborsCompassionJAS 2:151JN 3:17John Gill emphasizes the moral responsibility of those who possess worldly goods to show compassion towards those in need. He explains that true love for God is demonstrated through our actions towards our neighbors, particularly those who are less fortunate. Gill highlights that having the means to help others obligates one to act with kindness and generosity, as withholding assistance reflects a lack of God's love within. He stresses that love should be accompanied by genuine compassion and not given begrudgingly. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to reflect on their hearts and actions in relation to their brothers and sisters in need.
(Through the Needle's Eye) 3 - Jesus Loves a Rich, Young Ruler, Part 2
By David Servant0MAT 19:21MAT 28:19LUK 19:8ACT 2:441JN 3:17David Servant preaches about the encounter of Jesus with the rich ruler, emphasizing the importance of obedience and repentance for salvation. He highlights the apostles' teachings on the necessity of repentance, obedience, and sacrificial giving, showing how true faith in Christ leads to a transformed life of love, generosity, and obedience to God's commandments.
Luke 16:19-24. the Rich Man's Petition for His Own Relief.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PRO 21:13MAT 25:31LUK 16:19JAS 2:51JN 3:17Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, where the curtain is lifted to reveal the eternal world by Jesus, who sees all sinking into hell or soaring to heaven. The rich man's indifference to Lazarus's suffering leads to his torment in hell, while Lazarus finds comfort in the presence of God. The parable serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty in choosing His elect and the consequences of neglecting those in need. It highlights the importance of faith, humility, and compassion in this life to avoid eternal separation from God.
What Men Highly Esteem, God Abhors
By Charles Finney0True MoralityDivine JudgmentISA 1:11MAT 6:24MAT 7:21LUK 16:15ROM 13:101CO 10:24GAL 5:13PHP 2:4JAS 1:271JN 3:17Charles Finney emphasizes that what is highly esteemed by men is often abominable to God, as illustrated in Luke 16:15. He critiques the hypocrisy of the Pharisees who believed they could serve both God and wealth, arguing that true service to God requires selflessness and a commitment to the greater good. Finney explains that societal standards of morality often prioritize self-interest over divine principles, leading to a false sense of righteousness. He calls for a reevaluation of our motives and actions, urging believers to align their lives with God's expectations rather than worldly standards. Ultimately, Finney stresses that genuine faith must be active and benevolent, not merely a passive adherence to societal norms.
Christmas 365 Days a Year
By Jack Hyles0PRO 11:25MAT 10:39MAT 25:40LUK 6:38ACT 20:35ROM 12:10GAL 6:2PHP 2:4JAS 1:271JN 3:17Jack Hyles preaches about the true essence of Christmas, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment found in selflessly serving and giving to others. He shares heartwarming stories of individuals from his congregation who exemplified this spirit of generosity and compassion during the holiday season. Hyles challenges his listeners to embrace a lifestyle of living for others, not just during Christmas but every day of the year, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus on selflessness and sacrificial love.
Real Love Shares
By K.P. Yohannan0Love for the PoorCompassionPRO 19:17MAT 22:39MAT 25:40MRK 12:31LUK 6:38JHN 15:12GAL 6:2JAS 2:151PE 4:101JN 3:17K.P. Yohannan shares a poignant experience in the streets of Bombay, where he encounters a desperate beggar girl pleading for help. This moment forces him to confront the stark contrast between her life and that of his own daughter, Sarah, highlighting the deep need for compassion and love for the less fortunate. He reflects on God's challenge to prioritize love for all children, regardless of their circumstances, and to embody the real love that shares and cares for others. The sermon emphasizes that true love transcends societal boundaries and calls for action towards those in need.
A Plea for Alms
By Thomas Watson0PSA 112:9PRO 19:17MAT 25:40EPH 2:101JN 3:17Thomas Watson preaches a powerful sermon on the importance of charity and almsgiving, emphasizing the need for compassion and generosity towards those in need. He highlights how true charity is a reflection of God's love and mercy, urging the listeners to imitate Christ's sacrificial giving. Watson addresses the lack of charity in society, calling for a revival of compassion and kindness, and reminds the audience that charity is a fundamental aspect of Christian faith, reflecting the heart of God's mercy and grace.
The Gospel to the Poor
By K.P. Yohannan0Ministry to the PoorEvangelismPSA 34:6PRO 19:17ISA 61:1MAT 11:5MAT 25:40MRK 14:7LUK 4:18LUK 6:20JAS 2:51JN 3:17K.P. Yohannan shares his transformative experience of preaching the Gospel to the poor, emphasizing the divine empowerment he felt as he spoke words of love and hope. He reflects on his seven years of evangelistic work in North India, where his passion for the village people deepened, earning him the nickname 'Gandhi Man.' Yohannan highlights Jesus' focus on the poor and laboring class, illustrating that true outreach must come from those who genuinely love and understand the struggles of the marginalized. He asserts that the fight against hunger and poverty is fundamentally a spiritual battle, challenging secular views that separate social issues from spiritual truths.
The Benefits of an Early Piety. (Eccles 12:1)
By George Whitefield0LUK 8:14ROM 12:1ROM 13:142TI 2:4JAS 1:151JN 2:161JN 3:17The sermon focuses on the distinction between 'bios' and 'zoe' in the Bible, highlighting how 'bios' refers to everyday life, necessities, means of subsistence, and worldly pursuits, while 'zoe' signifies the fullness of life given by God to believers, transforming their inner being and behavior. The preacher delves into various Bible verses to explain how the pursuit of worldly goods, pleasures, and pride can lead one astray from God's purpose, urging believers to prioritize their dedication to Christ and avoid being drawn away by the lusts of the flesh, eyes, and the pride of life.
A Miracle for the Multitude
By Dan Puckett0MAT 5:16MAT 9:36MAT 14:14MRK 8:2MRK 8:6JHN 8:36ACT 20:35GAL 6:2JAS 2:151JN 3:17Dan Puckett preaches about Jesus' compassion for the multitude, emphasizing how He met people at their point of need, healed the sick, and provided for the hungry. Through the miracle of feeding the 4,000, Jesus showed His care and power, demonstrating that the gospel has the ultimate liberating force to set people free from bondage. Believers are called to be compassionate like Jesus, praying in faith and actively sharing the good news to bring miracles to those in need.
Why Do They Always Have to Be Either Entertained or Entertaining?
By K.P. Yohannan0Consumerism vs. GenerosityCompassion for the PoorPRO 21:13MAT 6:19MAT 25:35LUK 12:15ROM 12:13GAL 6:2PHP 2:41TI 6:17JAS 2:151JN 3:17K.P. Yohannan addresses the tendency of people to seek entertainment as a means of escaping guilt and the deeper issues in their lives. He contrasts the extravagant consumption habits of Americans with the stark realities faced by those in poorer nations, emphasizing the irony of how much is spent on food and entertainment in the West compared to the dire needs of others. Yohannan highlights the disconnect between the generosity shown in church offerings and the lavish meals that often follow, which can overshadow the true message of compassion and awareness for global suffering. He calls for a deeper understanding of the needs of others and a reevaluation of priorities in fellowship and community life.
Rules for Visits, Exorcisms
By Clement of Rome0MAT 25:36GAL 6:2HEB 13:16JAS 1:271PE 4:81JN 3:17Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of visiting and caring for orphans, widows, the sick, and those oppressed by evil spirits, urging believers to pray with sincerity and faith rather than with eloquent words. He encourages believers to approach others with humility, meekness, and a pure heart, offering help and healing through fasting, prayer, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Clement stresses the significance of serving others selflessly, following the teachings of Jesus to love and care for one another, especially the poor and the needy.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Kommunisten! - Part 2
By Leonard Verduin0DEU 24:10PRO 19:17MAT 25:35LUK 3:11ACT 2:44ROM 12:132CO 9:7GAL 6:2JAS 2:151JN 3:17Leonard Verduin discusses the economic principles and practices of the Anabaptist pioneers, highlighting their emphasis on communal sharing of resources to provide for those in need and their rejection of usury and excessive accumulation of wealth. The Anabaptists believed in helping the less fortunate out of brotherly love and without coercion, advocating for a Christian view of ownership that prioritizes compassion and stewardship. Despite facing persecution and being misunderstood, they stood firm in their belief in assisting those in need and promoting a more equitable distribution of resources.
Luke 6:17-19. a Multitude of People Healed by Touching Christ.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0ISA 58:7MAT 9:35MAT 11:28LUK 6:171JN 3:17Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the compassion and power of Jesus as witnessed in the healing of the sick and suffering, emphasizing the love that drove Him to welcome and relieve the afflicted. The sermon reflects on the miracles performed by Jesus, the gratitude of the healed, and the awe of the audience, highlighting the importance of imitating Christ by showing love and compassion to those in need, regardless of their social status or circumstances.
The Mark of Deliverance
By Edward Payson0PRO 24:11EZK 9:4MAT 25:401CO 10:112CO 7:10JAS 4:171PE 4:171JN 3:17REV 7:3REV 14:1Edward Payson preaches about the importance of being suitably affected by the sins of our fellow creatures, drawing from Ezekiel's vision of God setting a mark of deliverance on those who mourn for abominations. He emphasizes the need to mourn for sin more than its consequences, to actively work towards reformation by example, exertion, and prayer, and to be deeply affected by personal sins. Payson highlights that God sets a mark of deliverance on those who are genuinely affected by sin, showcasing justice, holiness, and faithfulness. He encourages the congregation to examine their hearts and actions to see if they bear the mark of deliverance.
Charity
By William Cowper0MAT 5:16ROM 12:91CO 13:4GAL 5:221JN 3:17William Cowper preaches about the importance of true Charity, emphasizing that genuine love and compassion should be the driving force behind all actions. He contrasts superficial acts of kindness with the selfless and sacrificial nature of true Charity, pointing out that even the most virtuous deeds are meaningless without a sincere heart. Cowper highlights the transformative power of Charity, which stems from a deep connection with God and a genuine desire to help others. He urges believers to embody the spirit of Charity in all aspects of life, showing kindness, forgiveness, and generosity to those around them.
Family Group Care
By George Mueller0Child CareFaith in ActionPSA 68:5PRO 22:6ISA 1:17MAT 18:5GAL 6:2EPH 4:32PHP 4:19JAS 1:271PE 5:71JN 3:17George Mueller discusses the evolution of child care in his time, emphasizing the transition from large institutional homes to smaller family group homes that foster a more natural environment for children. This change, prompted by the 1948 Children Act, aimed to provide emotional and physical development for children from broken homes, with married couples serving as houseparents. Despite the shift in approach, the core principle of relying on God's provision through prayer remained unchanged. The new model focused on nurturing the children's well-being rather than formal education, ensuring that all staff shared a common faith in God. Ultimately, Mueller highlights the importance of adapting to meet the needs of children while maintaining a foundation of faith and prayer.
(Through the Needle's Eye) 8 - the Rest of What Jesus Taught
By David Servant0MAT 6:19LUK 12:15LUK 14:33ROM 8:291JN 3:17David Servant preaches a comprehensive study of Jesus' major statements regarding stewardship, emphasizing the importance of considering every relevant scripture on money, possessions, and stewardship. He highlights the need to repent of greed, prioritize loving God and neighbor over material wealth, and follow Jesus' example of self-denial and generosity towards the poor. The sermon challenges the common misconceptions about prosperity gospel and stresses the significance of obedience to Jesus' teachings on stewardship for true discipleship and salvation.
Caring for the Needs Next Door
By David Wilkerson0Community ServiceCompassionPRO 19:17ISA 58:10MAT 9:35MAT 14:14LUK 10:33GAL 6:2PHP 2:4JAS 2:151JN 3:17David Wilkerson emphasizes that Jesus exemplified true compassion, which goes beyond mere sympathy to compel action. He illustrates how Jesus was 'moved with compassion' for the weary and scattered, leading Him to actively teach, preach, and heal. Wilkerson challenges Christians to reflect on their own compassion, urging them to respond to the needs around them rather than remaining passive. He encourages believers to ask God how they can help those in need within their own communities, highlighting that God will present opportunities for service. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to embody God's compassionate heart in practical ways.
Sympathy
By D.L. Moody0CompassionSympathyMAT 5:7MAT 25:40LUK 6:36ROM 12:15GAL 6:2EPH 4:32COL 3:12JAS 1:271PE 3:81JN 3:17D.L. Moody shares a poignant lesson on sympathy, recounting his experiences with the deaths of children in Chicago. He reflects on a particular incident involving a grieving mother and her drowned daughter, which stirred his heart and prompted him to take action. Moody emphasizes the importance of putting ourselves in others' shoes to cultivate compassion and sympathy, arguing that Christians should focus more on kind deeds rather than just preaching. He encourages believers to pray for a heart full of compassion to effectively reach those in need. Ultimately, he asserts that the gospel is about actions and kindness rather than mere words.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But whoso hath this worlds good - Here is a test of this love; if we do not divide our bread with the hungry, we certainly would not lay down our life for him. Whatever love we may pretend to mankind, if we are not charitable and benevolent, we give the lie to our profession. If we have not bowels of compassion, we have not the love of God in us; if we shut up our bowels against the poor, we shut Christ out of our hearts, and ourselves out of heaven. This world's good. - Του βιον του κοσμου· The life of this world, i.e. the means of life; for so βιος is often used. See Mar 12:44; Luk 8:43; Luk 15:12, Luk 15:30; Luk 21:4, and other places. How dwelleth the love of God in him? - That is, it cannot possibly dwell in such a person. Hardheartedness and God's love never meet together, much less can they be associated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
this world's good--literally, "livelihood" or substance. If we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren (Jo1 3:16), how much more ought we not to withhold our substance? seeth--not merely casually, but deliberately contemplates as a spectator; Greek, "beholds." shutteth up his bowels of compassion--which had been momentarily opened by the spectacle of his brother's need. The "bowels" mean the heart, the seat of compassion. how--How is it possible that "the love of (that is, 'to') God dwelleth (Greek, 'abideth') in him?" Our superfluities should yield to the necessities; our comforts, and even our necessaries in some measure, should yield to the extreme wants of our brethren. "Faith gives Christ to me; love flowing from faith gives me to my neighbor."
John Gill Bible Commentary
My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue,.... Which though it holds good of love to God, and to Jesus Christ, yet here is to be understood of love to the brethren, as the context shows; and so the Syriac version reads, "let us not love one another in word", &c. that is, without the heart, or with a double heart; speaking one thing with the lip, and designing another thing in the heart; speaking peaceably with the mouth, and with the heart laying wait; or we should not love in this manner "only"; and so the Arabic version of De Dieu adds. It is very lawful, and right to express our love to one another, and to all men in words, to give good words, and use courteous language, and speak in a kind, tender, and affectionate manner, and especially to persons in distress; but this should not be all, it will be of no avail to say to such, be warmed and filled, and give them nothing but these good words, nothing to warm and fill them with; see Jam 2:15; but in deed and in truth; for true love is a laborious and operative grace, hence we read of the work and labour of love; it shows itself by the saints serving one another, in spirituals; as by bearing one another's burdens, forbearing with, and forgiving one another, praying for each other, and building up one another on their most holy faith; exhorting each other to the duties of religion, and not suffering sins upon one another, but admonish in love, and restore with meekness; and in temporals, distributing to the necessities of the saints, ministering: to them of their worldly substance, and supplying their daily wants: and this is loving "in deed", or "in work"; this is actual love, love in fact, and what is apparent and evident: and it is "in truth", when it is in reality, and not in show only; and when it is cordially and heartily done, with cheerfulness, and without grudging.