1 John 3:18
Verse
Context
Love One Another
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?18Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.19And by this we will know that we belong to the truth, and will assure our hearts in His presence:
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My little children - Τεκνια μου, My beloved children, let us not love in word - in merely allowing the general doctrine of love to God and man to be just and right; Neither in tongue - In making professions of love, and of a charitable and humane disposition, and resting there; but in deed - by humane and merciful acts; And in truth - Feeling the disposition of which we speak. There is a good saying in Yalcut Rubeni, fol. 145, 4, on this point: "If love consisted in word only, then love ceaseth as soon as the word is pronounced. Such was the love between Balak and Balaam. But if love consisteth not in word, it cannot be dissolved; such was the love of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the rest of the patriarchs which were before them."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
When the venerable John could no longer walk to the meetings of the Church but was borne thither by his disciples, he always uttered the same address to the Church; he reminded them of that one commandment which he had received from Christ Himself, as comprising all the rest, and forming the distinction of the new covenant, "My little children, love one another." When the brethren present, wearied of hearing the same thing so often, asked why he always repeated the same thing, he replied, "Because it is the commandment of the Lord, and if this one thing be attained, it is enough" [JEROME]. in word--Greek, "with word . . . with tongue, but in deed and truth."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And hereby we know that we are of the truth,.... By the saints loving one another in deed and in truth, they know, as the cause is known by the effect, that they are of God, who is the true God, the God of truth, and cannot lie, and is truth itself; that they are the children of God, and are born of him, since they love those that are, and every like loves its like; and that they are of Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life; that they belong to him, are his, since they have his Spirit, as appears by his fruits in them, and this, among the rest, love to the brethren; and that they are his disciples, which others, even all men know, as well as themselves, by their mutual brotherly love; and that they are of the Gospel, which is truth, and the word of truth; that they are begotten, and born again, according to the will and grace of God by it, and are on the side of it, and can do nothing against, but all for it; and that they are true, sincere, and upright persons, true believers in Christ, whose faith works by love, and are real lovers of him, and his, since they love not in word only, but in deed and in truth. And shall assure our hearts before him; or "persuade our hearts": arrive to a full assurance of faith, hope, and understanding, that we are of the truth, do belong to God, are loved by him with an everlasting love, are chosen by him unto salvation, and are his adopted and regenerated ones, having passed from death to life, of which brotherly love is a sure evidence, Jo1 3:14. Some render the words "shall pacify", or "make our hearts tranquil": or "quiet"; this only the blood of Christ can do, and does, being sprinkled on the conscience: he only has a quiet mind, or true peace of conscience, that looks to the righteousness of Christ for justification, and deals with his blood for the full and free remission of his sins: it is true indeed, that one that loves his brother heartily and sincerely, has peace of mind in it, though not for it; when, on the other hand, there is no peace to the wicked man, that hates his brother; for where there is envying, malice, hatred, and strife, there is no true peace, pleasure, and comfort, but confusion, uneasiness, distraction, and every evil work. Or this passage may refer to that holy confidence before God, which true believers in Christ, and cordial lovers of the brethren, have; both now at the throne of grace, where they can come with boldness, intrepidity, and freedom, to ask for what they want, and confidently believe they shall receive what is proper and needful for them; and also hereafter, at the throne of judgment, and in the day of judgment, when they shall have boldness, and not be ashamed before the Judge at his coming; who will particularly take notice of their love in feeding, clothing, and visiting the least of his brethren, which he takes as done to himself.
1 John 3:18
Love One Another
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?18Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.19And by this we will know that we belong to the truth, and will assure our hearts in His presence:
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Learning How to Love the Lord
By David Wilkerson6.3K57:56MAT 22:371JN 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of expressing love and praise to the Lord. They envision a powerful scene of millions of believers coming together to worship Jesus, creating a thunderous sound that only angels can hear. The speaker acknowledges the battles and trials believers face but encourages them to stand on the promises of God and cling to His love. They urge for prayer and support in the midst of spiritual warfare and emphasize the need for a 24-hour lifestyle of living in love with Jesus, following His commandments.
Others
By Denny Kenaston3.5K59:55Loving OthersROM 12:10ROM 15:7GAL 5:13EPH 4:2EPH 5:21COL 3:161TH 5:11HEB 10:24JAS 5:161PE 3:81PE 4:91JN 1:71JN 3:161JN 3:181JN 3:23In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his experience of preaching to children on a bus route and how it changed his life. He emphasizes the importance of using simple illustrations to hold the attention of young listeners and share the message of Jesus. The speaker also mentions the impact of sending young people on missions trips, hoping they will become addicted to serving others and make it a guiding principle in their lives. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the profound words spoken by Jesus on the cross, specifically his plea for forgiveness for those who crucified him.
The Power of Kindness
By Jim Cymbala2.5K30:03KindnessECC 3:1MAT 5:44LUK 6:35ROM 12:20GAL 6:10EPH 4:321JN 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of kindness in our lives as Christians. He mentions that while people may know the Bible, speak in tongues, or preach, they may still lack kindness. The speaker prays for God to help us draw people to Him through our kindness, especially in a world filled with confusion and misconceptions about Christianity. He highlights the need for our actions to reflect our faith and for us to show love through acts of kindness, assisting and helping others. The speaker also references the book of Proverbs, stating that those who are kind benefit themselves, while the cruel bring ruin upon themselves.
(Through the Bible) Jude
By Chuck Smith2.2K1:05:58ISA 61:1EPH 3:17JAS 1:221JN 3:18JUD 1:16JUD 1:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being spiritually minded in a world that is temporary and will eventually be dissolved. He highlights the need to approach witnessing differently for different individuals, using compassion, love, or even fear to reach them. The preacher shares a personal experience of losing joy and love over a small incident, reminding listeners to keep their perspective on the return of the Lord and not be consumed by material possessions. The sermon also addresses the consequences of unbelief and how it can hinder individuals from receiving the blessings God intends for them.
Bible Holiness
By Rolfe Barnard1.7K51:02MAT 6:33JHN 14:15ROM 8:29HEB 12:14JAS 1:221JN 2:31JN 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believing in something and having faith. He talks about the need for people to come together and stand united in their beliefs. The preacher also discusses the concept of love and its connection to the will of God. He emphasizes that the gospel is the power to overcome sin and that true response to the death of Jesus Christ is to die to the old life and seek after the will of God. The preacher challenges the notion that people can go to heaven without obeying God and highlights the importance of walking with God in order to attain salvation.
Be Still by Leonard Ravenhill
By Compilations1.7K09:08MAT 16:24MRK 12:30GAL 2:20PHP 2:3JAS 2:141JN 3:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of true love and devotion to God, highlighting the sacrificial love of missionaries like Amy Wilson Carmichael and the need for genuine love and passion for souls. It challenges listeners to move beyond superficial expressions of love and to truly love God through actions and deeds, not just words. The message also touches on the necessity of surrendering self-interest and seeking God's will above all else, even if it means facing ridicule or criticism.
Christian Love
By Bill McLeod1.3K27:04LoveEZK 33:31JHN 17:26ROM 5:51TH 3:121TH 4:91JN 3:181JN 4:7In this sermon, the speaker shares two powerful illustrations about the transformative power of love. The first story is about a pastor in Chile who, after struggling with a stagnant church, simply told his congregation to love one another. This simple message sparked a change in the church and things began to happen. The second story is about D.L. Moody, who experienced a profound encounter with the love of God that transformed his ministry. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life of love, not just in words, but in actions. They also encourage listeners to examine their own hearts and ask God to fill them with His love. The sermon references passages from Ezekiel, 1 John, 1 Corinthians, and Philippians to support the message of love and serving others.
The Story of My Vw Bug by K P Yohannan
By K.P. Yohannan1.3K03:48PSA 37:3PRO 19:17MAT 25:40GAL 6:101JN 3:18This sermon shares a touching story of a man purchasing a 1962 Volkswagen Bug from a young girl who was going to serve as a missionary in the Philippines. It emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities to show kindness, encourage others, and support those in need, highlighting how God orchestrates simple incidents in our lives for a greater purpose.
Three Stages Spiritual Growth - Part 6
By Zac Poonen1.2K08:34PSA 119:11PRO 11:25EZK 36:27GAL 6:2PHP 2:4JAS 2:141JN 3:18REV 3:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of allowing the word of God to dwell in us, meditating on it, and making it a part of our lives to overcome sin and Satan. It encourages moving beyond personal growth to becoming a blessing to others, sacrificially giving and serving without expecting anything in return. The message highlights the transformation from being a child in faith to becoming a spiritual father or mother by actively seeking ways to bless and help those around us.
Love One for Another
By Roy Daniel1.2K41:57Loving One AnotherGEN 4:8JHN 13:331JN 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of love and charity among believers. He shares a story about two boys who sacrificially helped each other in times of need, illustrating the concept of selfless love. The preacher also mentions a woman who found peace and turned away from her sinful lifestyle after encountering the love of God through the actions of others. He encourages believers to not only do good but also to communicate and support one another, as this pleases the Lord. The sermon concludes with the preacher reminiscing about his childhood and the importance of teaching biblical stories to children.
The Missionary (Compilation)
By Compilations1.0K03:02CompilationPRO 16:3MAT 25:40LUK 14:28ACT 1:8ROM 12:2JAS 2:171JN 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taking action and showing God that we are serious about our faith. He challenges the congregation to fill the back seat of their cars every Sunday for a year, as a tangible demonstration of their commitment to spreading the word of God. The preacher shares a personal story about his father rescuing people from sin and leading them to Jesus, highlighting the power of individual efforts in making a difference. He concludes by stating that America can only be saved through a revival that leads people to hate sin, repent, and turn to God.
The Way Forward
By John Gowans75154:40PRO 18:24MAT 5:48ACT 1:8ROM 12:1EPH 1:71TH 5:191JN 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reaching out to those who are suffering and in need. He suggests that in today's world, every other door represents someone in trouble, whether it be a family dealing with drug addiction, a person facing imprisonment, or someone battling depression or cancer. The speaker also highlights the need for the Salvation Army to utilize their creative gifts and develop a variety of approaches to reach different individuals. He emphasizes the importance of catching people's attention and building relationships through friendship and love in times of need. Ultimately, the sermon encourages listeners to recognize the sadness and pain in the world and to actively seek opportunities to minister to those who are hurting.
The Harvest Is Now (Dutch)
By K.P. Yohannan7411:00:21MAT 4:19MAT 9:36MAT 10:16ROM 10:152CO 9:7PHP 2:3JAS 1:271JN 3:18REV 7:9This sermon emphasizes the call to follow Jesus and live a life of compassion and service, focusing on the urgency of reaching the lost and suffering in the world. It challenges listeners to pray earnestly for unreached nations, live simply, consider dedicating their lives to missions, and support native missionaries in sharing the gospel in difficult regions.
Loving Others in the Love of God (Jn. 15:12)
By Mike Bickle4354:35Community in ChristAbiding LoveLoving OthersMAT 22:39LUK 6:31JHN 15:12ROM 13:10GAL 6:2EPH 4:32HEB 10:251PE 4:81JN 3:181JN 4:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the call to love others as God loves us, rooted in John 15:12. He explains that God's love is wholehearted and should inspire us to express that love to others, particularly those who feel unnoticed or unvalued. Bickle challenges the spirit of entitlement that often arises when discussing love within the church, urging believers to take the initiative to love and support one another. He highlights the importance of community and belonging in the body of Christ, encouraging a shift from seeking to be loved to actively loving others. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to embody God's love in our relationships, fostering a spiritual family that reflects the heart of the Father.
The Message of the Letters of John
By G. Campbell Morgan0Fellowship With GodLight and LoveJHN 1:1JHN 20:31EPH 5:141JN 1:51JN 2:61JN 2:201JN 3:181JN 4:71JN 4:101JN 5:13G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the profound message of the Letters of John, focusing on the life of fellowship with God as central to Christian existence. He explains that this fellowship is rooted in the resources of light and love, which are exemplified in the life of Christ and made manifest in believers. The letters serve as both a teaching and a test, urging individuals and the Church to evaluate their lives through the lenses of light and love, ensuring that their actions align with God's will. Morgan highlights the importance of seeking and obeying the light, as well as yielding to the impulse of love while maintaining its holiness. Ultimately, the letters call for a deep, authentic relationship with God that reflects in both personal and communal faith.
What Does Loving Jesus Look Like?
By David Wilkerson0ObedienceManifestation of God's Presence2CH 5:14JHN 14:212CO 6:161JN 3:18David Wilkerson emphasizes that true love for Jesus is demonstrated not just through words but through actions and obedience to His commands. He highlights that love for Christ is evidenced by two key aspects: obeying His commandments and experiencing His presence in our lives. Wilkerson explains that God's presence is not something that descends upon us unexpectedly; rather, it manifests through our obedient lives as we become His temples. He encourages believers to forsake sin and embrace a life that radiates Christ's glory, affirming that His life flows through us continuously when we seek to know Him.
According to His Will
By G.W. North0Divine WisdomThe Power of the Cross1CO 1:121CO 1:311CO 4:201JN 3:18G.W. North emphasizes that all glory must be directed to the Lord, as human wisdom and achievements are insufficient for true understanding and acceptance of God's will. He points out that the Corinthians had begun to overlook the divine wisdom that comes from loving obedience rather than mere eloquence. True wisdom is demonstrated through actions and the power of God, particularly through the message of the Cross, which is seen as both the power and wisdom of God. North asserts that the essence of God's kingdom lies not in words but in the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition that true wisdom is found in Christ crucified, which challenges human notions of wisdom.
(Power From on High) 17. the Spirit of Love
By A.B. Simpson0Divine LoveUnity in the SpiritMAT 5:44JHN 13:34ROM 5:51CO 13:4GAL 5:22EPH 4:2COL 1:81PE 4:81JN 3:181JN 4:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound nature of 'love in the Spirit' as reported by Epaphras regarding the Colossian Church, which was characterized by divine love that transcends mere human affection. This love, rooted in the Holy Spirit, fosters unity, selflessness, and a deep connection among believers, contrasting sharply with natural love that is often selfish and conditional. Simpson illustrates that divine love is patient, enduring, and unconditional, reflecting God's own love for humanity, especially in times of suffering and wrong. He calls for believers to embody this love, which is a manifestation of Christ within them, and to see every challenge as an opportunity to grow in love. Ultimately, he urges the church to embrace the Holy Spirit's guidance in cultivating this divine love that fulfills the law and embodies holiness.
The Grace of Being Obliging
By J.R. Miller0ObligingnessChristian LoveMAT 7:12MAT 25:40LUK 6:31ROM 15:1GAL 5:13EPH 4:32PHP 2:4COL 3:121PE 4:101JN 3:18J.R. Miller emphasizes the Christian grace of obligingness, contrasting those who readily help others with those who are self-centered. He explains that obligingness is a manifestation of love and an essential quality for a beautiful life, urging Christians to cultivate this grace from the beginning of their faith journey. Miller highlights that true love seeks to serve and that selfishness is unlovely and un-Christlike. He encourages believers to look out for the interests of others, offering practical help and kindness in everyday situations. Ultimately, he asserts that developing an obliging spirit not only benefits others but also enriches our own lives, making us more like Christ.
1 John 3:18
By John Gill0Genuine LoveAction in FaithJAS 2:151JN 3:18John Gill emphasizes the importance of genuine love among believers, urging that love should not be merely verbal but demonstrated through actions. He explains that true love is not just about kind words but involves tangible acts of kindness and support for one another, reflecting the heart's sincerity. Gill highlights that love must be expressed in both spiritual and practical ways, such as bearing burdens, forgiving, and meeting each other's needs. He warns against superficial expressions of love that lack true commitment and encourages believers to act with a cheerful and generous spirit. Ultimately, love should be a heartfelt and active grace that reflects Christ's love for us.
1 John 2:5
By John Gill0ObedienceLove for GodMAT 7:20JHN 14:21JHN 15:5ROM 5:51CO 1:30GAL 5:22JAS 1:221JN 2:51JN 3:182JN 1:6John Gill emphasizes the significance of keeping God's word as a demonstration of genuine love for Him. He explains that true love for God is perfected in those who embrace and adhere to His commandments, reflecting sincerity rather than mere verbal affirmation. This love is not a result of human effort but is a manifestation of God's grace, leading to obedience as evidence of one's relationship with Christ. Gill clarifies that being in Christ is not just a nominal association but a profound spiritual reality evidenced by one's actions and adherence to God's teachings.
Wayside Ministries
By J.R. Miller0Acts of KindnessUnintentional MinistryPRO 11:25MAT 25:40LUK 6:38GAL 6:9EPH 2:10COL 3:23HEB 13:16JAS 2:141PE 4:101JN 3:18J.R. Miller emphasizes the significance of 'wayside ministries'—the small, unplanned acts of kindness that often go unnoticed but can have profound impacts on others. He contrasts these spontaneous acts with our more deliberate efforts, suggesting that the former may yield greater spiritual rewards. Miller illustrates how even casual interactions can uplift and encourage those around us, highlighting the importance of being mindful of our influence in everyday life. He encourages believers to cultivate a heart full of love and goodness, as this will naturally lead to unintentional acts of kindness that bless others. Ultimately, he reminds us that our true legacy may lie in these small, seemingly insignificant moments of grace.
Faith Must Be Demonstrated
By A.W. Tozer0Living Out LoveDemonstrating FaithMAT 5:16ROM 1:172CO 5:7GAL 5:6EPH 2:10PHP 2:12HEB 11:1HEB 12:1JAS 2:171JN 3:18A.W. Tozer emphasizes that faith must be demonstrated rather than merely defined, drawing from the examples of faith in Hebrews 11. He asserts that both preachers and congregants are called to actively show their faith through their actions and lives, reflecting God's love and ideals. Tozer encourages believers to lay aside distractions and sins, running the race of faith with endurance, and to seek the Holy Spirit's strength to embody this unwavering faith.
The Reward of Righteousness
By John Wesley0Good WorksRighteousnessISA 58:10MAT 5:16MAT 25:34LUK 6:381CO 13:3GAL 6:10COL 3:23HEB 11:6JAS 2:171JN 3:18John Wesley preaches on 'The Reward of Righteousness,' emphasizing that God rewards those who seek Him diligently. He reflects on the profound truth that the kingdom of heaven was prepared for humanity from the foundation of the world, highlighting the importance of good works as a manifestation of faith and love. Wesley urges the congregation to engage in acts of mercy, illustrating how these acts not only benefit others but also align with God's will and purpose. He encourages believers to remember that every act of kindness done to others is ultimately done to Christ Himself, reinforcing the call to live a life of service and compassion. The sermon concludes with a call to action, inviting all to participate in the work of mercy and charity.
Demonstrate Your Faith
By A.W. Tozer0Faith in ActionLiving Out DoctrineMAT 5:16MAT 7:20ROM 12:1GAL 5:6EPH 2:10COL 3:17HEB 11:7JAS 2:171PE 2:121JN 3:18A.W. Tozer emphasizes that mere knowledge of Christian doctrine is insufficient; true faith must be demonstrated through our daily lives. He points out that God desires us to act on our faith, just as He commanded Noah to do, rather than simply holding correct beliefs. Tozer agrees with Martin Lloyd-Jones that learning doctrine for its own sake can be perilous, and that doctrine should be lived out and incarnated in the lives of believers. The ultimate example of this is God Himself, who manifested His nature through His life on earth.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My little children - Τεκνια μου, My beloved children, let us not love in word - in merely allowing the general doctrine of love to God and man to be just and right; Neither in tongue - In making professions of love, and of a charitable and humane disposition, and resting there; but in deed - by humane and merciful acts; And in truth - Feeling the disposition of which we speak. There is a good saying in Yalcut Rubeni, fol. 145, 4, on this point: "If love consisted in word only, then love ceaseth as soon as the word is pronounced. Such was the love between Balak and Balaam. But if love consisteth not in word, it cannot be dissolved; such was the love of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the rest of the patriarchs which were before them."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
When the venerable John could no longer walk to the meetings of the Church but was borne thither by his disciples, he always uttered the same address to the Church; he reminded them of that one commandment which he had received from Christ Himself, as comprising all the rest, and forming the distinction of the new covenant, "My little children, love one another." When the brethren present, wearied of hearing the same thing so often, asked why he always repeated the same thing, he replied, "Because it is the commandment of the Lord, and if this one thing be attained, it is enough" [JEROME]. in word--Greek, "with word . . . with tongue, but in deed and truth."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And hereby we know that we are of the truth,.... By the saints loving one another in deed and in truth, they know, as the cause is known by the effect, that they are of God, who is the true God, the God of truth, and cannot lie, and is truth itself; that they are the children of God, and are born of him, since they love those that are, and every like loves its like; and that they are of Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life; that they belong to him, are his, since they have his Spirit, as appears by his fruits in them, and this, among the rest, love to the brethren; and that they are his disciples, which others, even all men know, as well as themselves, by their mutual brotherly love; and that they are of the Gospel, which is truth, and the word of truth; that they are begotten, and born again, according to the will and grace of God by it, and are on the side of it, and can do nothing against, but all for it; and that they are true, sincere, and upright persons, true believers in Christ, whose faith works by love, and are real lovers of him, and his, since they love not in word only, but in deed and in truth. And shall assure our hearts before him; or "persuade our hearts": arrive to a full assurance of faith, hope, and understanding, that we are of the truth, do belong to God, are loved by him with an everlasting love, are chosen by him unto salvation, and are his adopted and regenerated ones, having passed from death to life, of which brotherly love is a sure evidence, Jo1 3:14. Some render the words "shall pacify", or "make our hearts tranquil": or "quiet"; this only the blood of Christ can do, and does, being sprinkled on the conscience: he only has a quiet mind, or true peace of conscience, that looks to the righteousness of Christ for justification, and deals with his blood for the full and free remission of his sins: it is true indeed, that one that loves his brother heartily and sincerely, has peace of mind in it, though not for it; when, on the other hand, there is no peace to the wicked man, that hates his brother; for where there is envying, malice, hatred, and strife, there is no true peace, pleasure, and comfort, but confusion, uneasiness, distraction, and every evil work. Or this passage may refer to that holy confidence before God, which true believers in Christ, and cordial lovers of the brethren, have; both now at the throne of grace, where they can come with boldness, intrepidity, and freedom, to ask for what they want, and confidently believe they shall receive what is proper and needful for them; and also hereafter, at the throne of judgment, and in the day of judgment, when they shall have boldness, and not be ashamed before the Judge at his coming; who will particularly take notice of their love in feeding, clothing, and visiting the least of his brethren, which he takes as done to himself.