1 John 4:13
Verse
Context
Love Comes from God
12No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God remains in us, and His love is perfected in us.13By this we know that we remain in Him, and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit.14And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Hereby--"Herein." The token vouchsafed to us of God's dwelling (Greek, "abide") in us, though we see Him not, is this, that He hath given us "of His Spirit" (Jo1 3:24). Where the Spirit of God is, there God is. ONE Spirit dwells in the Church: each believer receives a measure "of" that Spirit in the proportion God thinks fit. Love is His first-fruit (Gal 5:22). In Jesus alone the Spirit dwelt without measure (Joh 3:34).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us,.... That there is a communion between God and us, and a communication of his love and grace to us, and an exercise of grace upon him; for God dwells in his people by his Spirit and grace, and they dwell in him by the exercise of faith and love upon him: and this is known, because he hath given us of his Spirit: not of the essence and nature of the Spirit, which is the same with the nature of the Father and of the Son, and is incommunicable; but either of the gifts of the Spirit, which are divided to every man as he pleases, and which being bestowed on men, and used by them, for the profit and advantage of the church of God, show that God is with them, and dwells among them of a truth; or of the graces of the Spirit, such as faith, hope, and love, which are each the gifts of God; and these being bestowed and exercised, are proofs of the mutual indwelling of God and his people; See Gill on Jo1 3:24.
1 John 4:13
Love Comes from God
12No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God remains in us, and His love is perfected in us.13By this we know that we remain in Him, and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit.14And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(So Great a Salvation) Witness of the Spirit
By Paris Reidhead6.1K43:28Witness Of The SpiritMAT 6:33JHN 3:161JN 3:241JN 4:131JN 5:10In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the impact of John Wesley's ministry and emphasizes the importance of the witness of the Spirit to the new birth. The foundation for this truth is found in Job 32:8, which states that there is a spirit in man and the inspiration of the Almighty gives understanding. The speaker highlights the need for genuine fellowship with God, as opposed to mere fellowship with other believers. They also discuss the work of the Holy Spirit in bringing individuals from spiritual death to life and the role of believers as examples of God's grace to others.
Witness of the Spirit - Part 1
By Paris Reidhead4.3K28:28Witness Of The SpiritAssurance of SalvationJOB 32:8JHN 3:16JHN 3:24ROM 8:162CO 5:17GAL 4:4EPH 2:11PE 1:231JN 4:131JN 5:10Paris Reidhead emphasizes the significance of the witness of the Spirit in confirming one's relationship with God, drawing from John 3, 4, and 5 to illustrate how the Spirit assures believers of their eternal life. He stresses that true assurance comes from the Holy Spirit's testimony within us, rather than from external affirmations or mere profession of faith. Reidhead recounts personal experiences and historical insights, particularly from John Wesley, to highlight the importance of understanding the inner workings of the Spirit in awakening, convicting, and regenerating the human spirit. He encourages believers to guide those uncertain of their faith to seek the Spirit's confirmation through God's Word. Ultimately, the sermon underscores that only the Holy Spirit has the authority to affirm one's status as a child of God.
(Evidence of Eternal Life - Part 7) Witness of the Spirit
By Paris Reidhead2.3K43:17JOB 32:8ROM 8:16GAL 4:41JN 3:241JN 4:131JN 5:10This sermon delves into the importance of the witness of the Spirit in confirming one's relationship with God. It emphasizes the need for genuine conversion experiences and the role of the Holy Spirit in convicting, awakening, and regenerating individuals. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and historical references to highlight the significance of true spiritual transformation and the dangers of false professions of faith.
(So Great Salvation- Part 4) Temptation and Sin
By Paris Reidhead1.6K56:281JN 4:13This sermon delves into the importance of self-reflection and repentance, focusing on the process of awakening, conviction, repentance, faith, the new birth, and the witness of the Spirit. It emphasizes the need to acknowledge and confess sins, seek forgiveness, and experience the cleansing power of God's Word and the blood of Jesus to maintain a clear conscience before God and man.
Evidences of Eternal Life - Part 6
By Paris Reidhead1.0K48:39Eternal LifeMAT 6:33ROM 3:24GAL 4:41JN 3:241JN 4:131JN 5:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenging and impoverished environment in which John Wesley preached the word of God. Wesley believed in the power of salvation to transform lives and make individuals into new creations. The evidence of this transformation was seen in the witness of the spirit. The speaker also highlights the closed doors Wesley faced in the churches of England and the state of the Church during his time, which was described as lacking vibrancy and spirituality.
Temptation and Sin
By Paris Reidhead84156:28SinMAT 22:39JHN 13:34ROM 1:1ROM 15:13GAL 4:41JN 3:241JN 4:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not giving any place to the devil, as stated in Ephesians 4:27. He explains that if we give the devil an opportunity, he will take it. The preacher uses the analogy of living inside a yard with a high-board fence to illustrate how we should protect ourselves from the devil's influence. He then shares a personal story of sassing his mother and how she reminded him of his Christian identity, highlighting the need for self-control and obedience. The sermon also briefly mentions the teaching and preaching of Charles Wesley and the theme of "So Great Salvation," touching on topics such as awakening, conviction, repentance, faith, the new birth, and the witness of the Spirit.
Made Unto Us - All Things
By G.W. North0Embodiment of VirtueRole of the Holy SpiritJHN 14:16JHN 15:5ROM 8:9ROM 8:161CO 1:302CO 5:21GAL 5:22EPH 4:30PHP 2:11JN 4:13G.W. North emphasizes that Jesus Christ embodies all virtues and graces, being made sin for humanity while remaining sinless. He illustrates how Christ's life personifies the spiritual qualities described in the Old Testament, making Him the substance of all that is virtuous. The Holy Spirit, in a similar manner, imparts these virtues to believers, allowing them to reflect Christ's character. North highlights the unity and love within the Godhead, showing how the Holy Spirit identifies with both Christ and believers to fulfill God's purposes. Ultimately, the sermon reveals that through the Spirit, believers can experience and display the life of Christ.
Pentecost Restored What Paradise Lost
By Andrew Murray0Dependence On GodHoly SpiritJHN 14:17JHN 15:5ACT 2:4ROM 8:261CO 2:122CO 1:22GAL 5:22EPH 3:16PHP 2:131JN 4:13Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of recognizing our spiritual ignorance and the impotence of mere intellectual knowledge in our relationship with God. He encourages believers to humbly depend on the Holy Spirit, understanding that true communion with God requires a surrender of our own wisdom and righteousness. As one becomes aware of the Spirit's indwelling, there is a profound realization of dependence on the Father, mirroring the example of Jesus. Murray asserts that Pentecost restored the divine presence in believers, enabling them to yield to God's will and receive the gifts He freely offers. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper reverence and trust in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
At His Disposal
By Major Ian Thomas0Holy SpiritNew Life in ChristJHN 14:20ROM 8:2ROM 12:11CO 12:272CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:5PHP 1:6COL 1:271JN 4:13Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that upon redemption through Christ's atoning death, believers receive the Holy Spirit, which imparts the very life of Christ within them. This transformation allows Christians to live out the life of Christ, as He desires to express His sinless humanity through them. By placing their minds, emotions, and wills at Christ's disposal, believers become active members of His body, the church, and experience a new law of the Spirit of Life that re-establishes their relationship with God. This shift from an ego-centric to a Deo-centric life enables them to fulfill God's commandments through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Of Communion With God.
By John Gill0Fellowship with the TrinityCommunion with GodPSA 90:1ISA 54:5LAM 3:24JHN 17:21ROM 5:10EPH 2:22PHP 4:191JN 1:31JN 3:11JN 4:13John Gill emphasizes that communion with God is the pinnacle of the Christian experience, representing the closest relationship believers can have with the divine in this life. He explains that this communion is rooted in the union between God and His people, established through Christ and the Holy Spirit, and is characterized by mutual indwelling, walking together, and conversing with God. Gill highlights that only those who are redeemed, regenerated, and sanctified can enjoy this fellowship, which is a profound blessing and a source of joy and strength. He further elaborates on the special communion believers have with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, underscoring the honor and value of such a relationship. Ultimately, Gill portrays this communion as a foretaste of heavenly bliss, making it a vital aspect of the believer's life.
The Marks of a Christian
By Theodore Epp0Marks of a ChristianTransformation in ChristJHN 3:3ROM 6:42CO 13:5GAL 2:20GAL 4:6GAL 5:22EPH 2:10PHP 1:6COL 1:271JN 4:13Theodore Epp emphasizes four essential marks of a Christian as outlined in Galatians. Firstly, a true Christian has Christ living within them, signifying a personal relationship with Him. Secondly, the presence of the Holy Spirit is crucial, as He transforms believers and shapes their character. Thirdly, Christians share in the experience of the cross, which is fundamental to overcoming personal struggles. Lastly, a Christian embodies a divine life that transcends mere external regulations, reflecting the transformative power of God.
'A Man in Christ'
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Transformation through ChristBeing in ChristISA 53:11ZEP 3:17JHN 15:5ROM 8:192CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 1:1PHP 1:1COL 1:271JN 4:13Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the profound significance of being 'in Christ,' illustrating how this relationship serves as a refuge, source of strength, and transformative experience for believers. He reflects on Paul's assurance of being in Christ and encourages listeners to examine their own lives and relationships with Christ, highlighting the importance of both abiding and transitory experiences of divine fellowship. Brengle urges Christians to live in constant communion with Christ, which not only enriches their spiritual lives but also impacts those around them positively. He concludes by affirming that true transformation occurs when individuals embody the essence of Christ, becoming vessels of His love and peace in a troubled world.
He Dwelleth With You, and Shall Be in You
By A.B. Simpson0Holy SpiritAbiding PresenceJHN 14:17JHN 15:4ACT 1:8ROM 8:91CO 3:162CO 1:22GAL 2:20EPH 2:22COL 1:271JN 4:13A.B. Simpson emphasizes the two critical stages in the Christian life: the initial work of the Holy Spirit in regeneration and the deeper experience of the Spirit's abiding presence within us. He illustrates the difference between merely having the Spirit's influence and allowing Him to take full residence in our hearts as the Owner and Keeper. Simpson encourages believers to invite the Holy Spirit not just as a guest but as the one who controls and transforms our entire being. This profound relationship with the Holy Spirit leads to a life filled with joy and purpose, as Christ makes our hearts His home.
Ye Are Not in the Flesh, but in the Spirit
By A.B. Simpson0Dependence On GodHoly SpiritJHN 14:17JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ROM 8:9ROM 8:261CO 2:122CO 5:17GAL 5:16EPH 3:161JN 4:13A.B. Simpson emphasizes that true spirituality is not about having a strong character but being filled with the Holy Spirit. He references Paul's teaching that believers are not in the flesh but in the Spirit if God's Spirit dwells in them. The new creation not only transforms the human spirit but also prepares it for God's presence, highlighting our dependence on Christ. Simpson illustrates that the essence of spirituality is complete reliance on the Holy Spirit, which fills every aspect of our being. The act of Christ breathing His Spirit into His disciples symbolizes the ultimate glory of this new creation.
The Expediency of the Spirit’s Coming
By Andrew Murray0Spiritual GrowthThe Holy SpiritJHN 14:16JHN 16:7ACT 1:8ROM 8:91CO 3:162CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 1:13PHP 1:61JN 4:13Andrew Murray emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit's coming as a greater blessing than Christ's physical presence on earth. He explains that while Jesus' time with the disciples was personal and external, the Spirit's indwelling presence offers a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. This transition allows believers to grow from within, developing a personal faith and character shaped by the Spirit. Murray encourages Christians to embrace the challenges of this spiritual journey, recognizing the privilege of having the Holy Spirit as their guide and comforter. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper faith in the Spirit's presence, which enables believers to experience the fullness of Christ's love and guidance.
New Birth
By Leon Morris0New BirthThe Holy SpiritJHN 6:63JHN 16:8ROM 8:21CO 2:142CO 3:122CO 5:17GAL 3:3TIT 3:51JN 3:241JN 4:13Leon Morris emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, asserting that the presence of the Spirit is the definitive mark of belonging to God. He explains that the Holy Spirit not only convicts individuals of their sin but also brings them to new life, enabling them to accept the gospel and experience a radical change akin to being 'born again.' Morris highlights that this spiritual rebirth is not a result of human effort but a supernatural act of God, affirming that the Christian life begins and is sustained through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Entire Sanctification as Taught by John
By Dougan Clark0JHN 3:31JN 1:71JN 4:131JN 4:181JN 5:14Dougan Clark preaches on the transformation of John, from a Son of Thunder to the apostle of love after Pentecost, emphasizing the importance of love for God and one another. The sermon delves into the profound truths in the Gospel of John, highlighting the necessity of the new birth, God's love as the source of salvation, and the role of the Holy Spirit in regeneration. John's writings also touch on the freedom from sin through Jesus, the promise of the Comforter, and the attainment of perfect love through faith and consecration.
The Spirit of Love
By Samuel Chadwick0JHN 16:7ROM 5:5ROM 15:30GAL 5:22COL 1:82TI 1:7JAS 4:51JN 4:13Samuel Chadwick preaches on the significance of love in religion, emphasizing that love completes the revelation of God and encapsulates the entire duty of man. The Spirit of God is identified as the 'Spirit of Love,' which is the foundational quality that gives value to all other attributes. Love, as a fruit of the Spirit, is considered the chief and most prominent result when the Spirit of Love resides in believers, manifesting as God's own love shed in their hearts through the Holy Ghost.
The Spirit's Object
By Miles J. Stanford0JHN 16:14ROM 8:91CO 6:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:301TH 5:19HEB 10:151JN 4:13JUD 1:20Miles J. Stanford preaches on the unity believers have with the Lord Jesus through the Holy Spirit, emphasizing how the Spirit constantly directs our focus to Jesus, engraving His image in our hearts, thoughts, words, and actions. Stanford highlights that spiritual growth is not about perfection but about making Jesus the central focus of our lives, with the Holy Spirit guiding us in understanding divine truths and transforming us from within. He reminds believers that true growth comes from yielding to the work of the Spirit, allowing the Cross to crucify our fleshly desires and worldly attachments, ultimately glorifying Jesus in all aspects of our lives.
Union
By Norman Grubb0JHN 14:20JHN 15:4JHN 17:21COL 1:271JN 4:13Norman Grubb delves into the profound mystery of the union between the creature and the Creator, emphasizing that the central secret of all history is the union of Christ in believers, not just Christ by Himself. He highlights that the true meaning of life in time and eternity is found in this union, which may be beyond complete understanding but can be experienced in the heart. Grubb explains that eternal life is the union of God in Three Persons dwelling in Each Other, emphasizing the interconnectedness and unity within the Godhead.
1 John 4:13
By John Gill0Communion with GodIndwelling of the Holy SpiritJHN 14:17ROM 8:9GAL 5:221JN 4:13John Gill emphasizes the profound relationship between believers and God as described in 1 John 4:13, illustrating that true communion with God is evidenced by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. He explains that this mutual indwelling is not only a matter of faith and love but is also demonstrated through the gifts and graces of the Spirit bestowed upon believers. The presence of these spiritual gifts serves as a confirmation of God's presence among His people, affirming their connection and the exercise of grace in their lives.
Free Grace Salvation
By James Bourne0PSA 51:5ISA 48:8MAL 4:2MAT 6:24JHN 6:37JHN 15:18ROM 8:322CO 4:2GAL 1:3EPH 2:5TIT 3:51JN 4:13James Bourne preaches about the profound message of salvation by grace, emphasizing the hopelessness of sinners under conviction and the necessity of understanding God's mercy and pardon through Jesus Christ. He warns against false teachings that lead to despair and highlights the importance of recognizing the free grace of Christ as the only means of salvation. Bourne encourages believers to stand firm in the face of temptation, keeping their focus on the love and grace of Christ that brings unspeakable power and raises spirits from despair to heavenly hope.
Five Years With the Indwelling Christ
By Daniel Steele0JHN 14:16ROM 8:1ROM 15:131CO 6:192CO 3:17GAL 2:20EPH 3:17PHP 1:6COL 1:271JN 4:13Daniel Steele reflects on the profound spiritual manifestation of Jesus Christ to him as the perfect Savior from all sin on the 17th of November, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's love that changed his 'I must' into 'I will,' and his duty into delight. Steele testifies to the indescribable joy and freedom found in surrendering his will to God's will, experiencing the highest form of freedom on earth. He shares how the love of Jesus compelled him to share his testimony and the glorious deliverance he experienced, unable to fully express the greatness of God's love. Steele's theology of the Holy Spirit becomes clear and experiential, leading to a deeper understanding of the Trinity and the essential role of the Spirit in transforming believers' lives.
The Holy Spirit's Testimony
By Bishop W. F. Mallalieu0ROM 8:9ROM 8:142CO 1:212CO 5:5GAL 4:6EPH 1:131JN 3:231JN 4:13Bishop W. F. Mallalieu preaches about the assurance of salvation through the testimony of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the direct communication between the Spirit of God and the human soul to confirm adoption into God's family. He discusses the importance of trusting in God's timing and method of communication, highlighting that the Spirit's witness may come in various forms, such as a quiet assurance or a still small voice. Mallalieu stresses the need to let God have His way and patiently wait for His promises to be fulfilled, as the Spirit's testimony includes repentance, faith, justification, regeneration, and sanctification.
Getting Properly Started
By John Hames0JHN 3:7ROM 8:9GAL 5:221JN 4:131JN 5:10John Hames emphasizes the importance of obtaining a clear, definite witness from God that our sins are forgiven and under the blood, highlighting the necessity of the 'New Birth' experience. He warns against the misconception that joining a church or living a moral life is enough for salvation, stressing the need for a personal encounter with God's Spirit. Hames reminds his audience that true Christianity involves a radical transformation marked by a hatred for sin, a love for righteousness, and a genuine care for others.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Hereby--"Herein." The token vouchsafed to us of God's dwelling (Greek, "abide") in us, though we see Him not, is this, that He hath given us "of His Spirit" (Jo1 3:24). Where the Spirit of God is, there God is. ONE Spirit dwells in the Church: each believer receives a measure "of" that Spirit in the proportion God thinks fit. Love is His first-fruit (Gal 5:22). In Jesus alone the Spirit dwelt without measure (Joh 3:34).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us,.... That there is a communion between God and us, and a communication of his love and grace to us, and an exercise of grace upon him; for God dwells in his people by his Spirit and grace, and they dwell in him by the exercise of faith and love upon him: and this is known, because he hath given us of his Spirit: not of the essence and nature of the Spirit, which is the same with the nature of the Father and of the Son, and is incommunicable; but either of the gifts of the Spirit, which are divided to every man as he pleases, and which being bestowed on men, and used by them, for the profit and advantage of the church of God, show that God is with them, and dwells among them of a truth; or of the graces of the Spirit, such as faith, hope, and love, which are each the gifts of God; and these being bestowed and exercised, are proofs of the mutual indwelling of God and his people; See Gill on Jo1 3:24.