1 John 4:16
Verse
Context
Love Comes from God
15If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.16And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love; whoever abides in love abides in God, and God in him.17In this way, love has been perfected among us, so that we may have confidence on the day of judgment; for in this world we are just like Him.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God is love - See on Jo1 4:8 (note). He that dwelleth in love - he who is full of love to God and man is full of God, for God is love; and where such love is, there is God, for he is the fountain and maintainer of it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And we--John and his readers (not as Jo1 4:14, the apostles only). known and believed--True faith, according to John, is a faith of knowledge and experience: true knowledge is a knowledge of faith [LUECKE]. to us--Greek, "in our case" (see on Jo1 4:9). dwelleth--Greek, "abideth." Compare with this verse, Jo1 4:7.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And we have known and believed,.... Or have a full assurance and knowledge of, and faith in, the love that God hath to us; shown as in many instances, so more especially in sending his Son to be the propitiation for our sins, to be the Saviour of us, and that we might live through him. God is love; See Gill on Jo1 4:8, and he that dwelleth in love; who dwells by faith upon the love of God as displayed in Christ, and abides in the exercise of love to God and to the saints: dwelleth in God, and God in him; See Gill on Jo1 4:13; the last clause, "and God in him", is left out in the Syriac version.
1 John 4:16
Love Comes from God
15If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.16And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love; whoever abides in love abides in God, and God in him.17In this way, love has been perfected among us, so that we may have confidence on the day of judgment; for in this world we are just like Him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Psalm of Remembrance
By C.H. Spurgeon6.3K39:04PSA 23:4PSA 102:27PSA 103:2MAT 11:28ROM 8:28HEB 13:51JN 4:16In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of a foreigner describing the fruits of his land to emphasize the limitations of human description when it comes to conveying the goodness of God. The preacher then applies this concept to matters of grace, explaining that no words can fully capture the experience of God's love and the blessings received by believers. The sermon also highlights the transformative power of God's love, using examples from the Bible such as Jacob's life and the deliverance from trials. Overall, the sermon emphasizes that personal experience and testimony are more powerful than any description, and that God's love is the foundation of Christian encouragement.
You Are the Pearl of Great Value
By Derek Prince1.7K41:58GospelGEN 2:7EPH 1:6JAS 4:51JN 4:16In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of realizing how valuable we are in the eyes of God. He believes that the greatest problem of humanity is our failure to recognize our worth, which leads us to devalue ourselves. The speaker then shares a parable from Matthew 13:44-46, comparing the kingdom of heaven to a hidden treasure in a field. He suggests that Jesus is the man in the parable who gave up everything to obtain the treasure, which represents the people of God. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God never gives up on us, using the example of a parent's unwavering love for their wayward child.
Witnessing to Muslims
By Sammy Tanagho1.4K1:01:41MuslimsJHN 10:9JHN 13:34JHN 14:6ACT 17:21JN 4:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the victory that Jesus won on behalf of believers. He explains that when someone believes in Jesus and accepts him as their savior, they are filled with the Holy Spirit and given the power to be set free from sin. The preacher highlights the importance of personal relationships, especially when evangelizing to Muslim individuals, as they value personal connections over accomplishments. He encourages Christians to demonstrate God's love through their actions and to present the Gospel in a way that makes sense to non-Christians and Muslims. The sermon concludes with a prayer of gratitude for God's love.
Drawing Near-1st Session
By Gisela Yohannan1.1K1:06:56Experiencing GodMAT 6:33JHN 3:16JHN 14:23ROM 8:12CO 5:17HEB 10:221JN 4:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the love of God and how it is portrayed in songs and scriptures. They question whether our understanding of God's love is accurate and emphasize the importance of recognizing God's authority. The speaker suggests that we can learn from how God is worshiped in heaven, as described in the book of Revelation. They also mention the reverence and respect shown to earthly rulers in the past, highlighting the need for us to approach God with humility and faith.
The Love of God
By Mike Morrow89050:38EPH 3:191JN 4:71JN 4:101JN 4:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not just talking about God's love, but experiencing it as a reality in our lives. He encourages the congregation to take a moment to express their love for someone who has been a blessing to them. The preacher then discusses three aspects of God's love: its role in our regeneration, its ability to change our hearts, and its reflection of the character of Christ in us. He also highlights the futility of practicing Christianity without love, using biblical references to support his points.
The Love of God
By Bill McLeod87351:52Character Of GodJHN 12:21ROM 5:5ROM 8:9ROM 8:141JN 4:161JN 4:18In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of Jack Harls, a man who was desperate for God's power to preach the gospel. After his father's death, Jack made a vow to God that he would not eat or drink until he received this power. On the third day, God touched him and he went on to preach with great success, leading 18 people to conversion. The speaker also reflects on the state of churches today and encourages listeners to actively participate in God's work rather than just observing from a distance.
Love
By Bill McLeod80842:16LoveROM 13:8ROM 13:10EPH 1:15COL 1:41TI 1:51JN 4:81JN 4:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man named Justin who led a member of a notorious gang to Christ without knowing his identity. Later, the gang members confront Justin and physically assault him as a punishment. Despite this, Justin continues to show love and kindness to his neighbors, even when they reject him. The speaker emphasizes that love is the answer to dealing with evil and that God's nature is love. The sermon references Bible verses from Romans and 1 John to support the message.
The Happy Man 01 God With and for Us
By James K. Boswell74933:07EXO 3:14MAT 1:23MAT 18:20MAT 28:18ROM 8:31ROM 8:351JN 4:16In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the concept of God being with us, as mentioned in Matthew 1:23. He then moves on to Romans 8:31, emphasizing that if God is for us, no one can be against us. The speaker also references 1 John 4:16, highlighting the unbreakable love of God in Christ Jesus. The sermon concludes with the assurance that God is with us, for us, and in us, and that we are more than conquerors through Him.
The Love of God
By T.M. Anderson71243:08MAT 6:33JHN 3:16JHN 17:26ROM 5:81CO 13:13EPH 4:131JN 4:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the perfection of God's love and its importance in our lives. He emphasizes that in the current world, it is crucial to rely on God's love more than ever before. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about encountering a couple in distress and highlights the power of God's love to bring comfort and healing. He then delves into the concept of love being dimensional in four directions: height, depth, length, and breadth, emphasizing that God's love is limitless and never-ending.
Perfect Love
By Keith Daniel65921:291SA 17:45PSA 23:1ROM 6:14ROM 8:31ROM 8:38EPH 6:101JN 4:16This sermon emphasizes the perfect love that casts out fear, highlighting the importance of dwelling in God's love and trusting in His power. It delves into the story of David and Goliath, showcasing how faith and trust in God can overcome any challenge or enemy. The sermon also explores the concept of sin not having dominion over believers and the assurance of God's eternal love and protection.
Beholding the Father's Love
By Mike Bickle3951:19Abiding in LoveThe Father's LoveAbiding LoveMAL 3:6JHN 3:1JHN 15:9JHN 17:23ROM 5:5EPH 3:17PHP 1:9HEB 13:81JN 4:16REV 3:9Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound nature of the Father's love for us, drawing from John 15 and 17, where Jesus reveals that God loves us with the same intensity as He loves His Son. This love is not only a theological concept but a transformative reality that should shape our relationship with God and how we view ourselves. Bickle encourages believers to abide in this love, allowing it to change their hearts and minds, and to recognize their worth as beloved children of God. He stresses that understanding this love is crucial for experiencing true joy and confidence in our relationship with God.
The Love of the Spirit
By Michael Koulianos3345:52Holy SpiritThe Love of the Holy SpiritIntimacy With GodPSA 51:11ISA 34:16JHN 15:7ACT 15:28ROM 5:5ROM 8:261CO 6:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:301JN 4:16Michael Koulianos emphasizes the profound love of the Holy Spirit, highlighting that without the Spirit, life would lack joy, faithfulness, and divine connection. He explains that understanding the Holy Spirit as God enhances the beauty of His love for us, urging believers to cultivate intimacy with Him. Koulianos shares personal testimonies and insights on how the Holy Spirit gathers and unites believers, encouraging a collective pursuit of God's presence. He stresses the importance of abiding in the Spirit to experience God's love and to ask for what aligns with His will. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, which is essential for experiencing and sharing God's love.
Draw Near to Hear - Part 2
By Phil Beach Jr.2833:24God's LoveCommunity and FamilySeeking GodEPH 3:17HEB 10:22JAS 4:81JN 4:16Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of drawing near to God to truly understand His love and heart for us. He highlights that our perception of love is often distorted by worldly influences and that we must seek a deeper relationship with God to experience His unconditional love. The sermon also discusses the significance of family as a reflection of God's love and the dangers of a dysfunctional family structure, which can hinder our understanding of divine love. Beach encourages the congregation to overcome their fears of intimacy with God and each other, reminding them that true joy and healing come from this closeness. Ultimately, he calls for a community that embodies the love of Christ, fostering genuine relationships that reflect God's heart.
An Hour With Norman Grubb
By Norman Grubb2355:00Life in ChristSelf-Giving LoveMAT 22:39JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 5:51CO 12:12GAL 2:20COL 3:11HEB 12:91JN 4:161JN 4:19Norman Grubb explores the profound questions of life: what it is, how to live it, and why we live it, emphasizing that true humanity is found in self-forgetfulness and spontaneous expressions of God's love. He asserts that Jesus Christ is the embodiment of life and love, and that our existence is meant to be a reflection of God's self-giving nature. Grubb highlights the importance of recognizing our relationship with God as one of union, where we live not for ourselves but for others, embodying the love that God has poured into our hearts. He concludes that the essence of Christianity is not about self-improvement but about allowing God to live through us, transforming our lives into expressions of His love.
Jesus, a Bridegroom With a Burning Heart of Love
By Mike Bickle201:03:39God's LoveRelationship With ChristGEN 1:261JN 4:16Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound love of Jesus as the Bridegroom God, highlighting that His nature is relational and deeply involved with us. He explains that God's love is not merely about mercy but is an eternal, burning desire for relationship, inviting us into a dynamic partnership with Him. Bickle encourages believers to understand their value in God's eyes and to recognize that they are integral to His story, not distant observers. He stresses that our future with God is filled with active participation in His glory, and that love is the core of God's eternal plan for humanity. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a deeper connection with Jesus, urging listeners to embrace their identity as beloved participants in His divine narrative.
A Trust Without Limits
By David Wilkerson1God's LoveTrust in GodEXO 6:7PSA 95:10ISA 41:10JHN 10:27ROM 8:38EPH 3:17PHP 4:62TI 1:7HEB 4:161JN 4:16David Wilkerson emphasizes that God desires a deep relationship with His people, urging them to recognize His voice and trust Him without limits. He reflects on the Israelites' failure to truly know God despite witnessing miracles, highlighting that many believers today also place boundaries on their faith. Wilkerson encourages individuals to rest in God's love, rejecting doubts and accusations from the enemy, and to allow God to fully manifest His presence in their lives. He stresses that true knowledge of God comes from accepting His love and letting Him be God in every aspect of life.
a.w. Tozer Quotes
By A.W. Tozer1Understanding GodSurrender to GodPSA 46:10PSA 139:14PRO 3:5ISA 40:31MAT 6:33ROM 12:2COL 3:2HEB 11:6JAS 4:101JN 4:16A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of our thoughts about God, asserting that they shape our identity and spiritual journey. He highlights the importance of surrendering to God, suggesting that true progress in faith comes when we relinquish control and allow God to work within us. Tozer critiques the man-centered approach of modern Christianity, advocating for a God-centered perspective that recognizes God's sovereignty and moral excellence. He warns that without a proper understanding of God, society risks moral decay, and he calls for a deep, personal relationship with God that encompasses our entire being.
The Love of God
By A.B. Simpson0God's LoveLove in ActionJHN 3:16ROM 8:381CO 13:4EPH 2:41JN 3:11JN 4:81JN 4:121JN 4:161JN 4:19A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound nature of God's love, asserting that love is the essence of God and the foundation of all His attributes. He explains that Christ is the ultimate manifestation of this love, which calls forth our love in return, creating a cycle of divine affection. Simpson illustrates that true understanding of God's love comes through faith and is expressed in our love for one another, urging believers to act as conduits of God's love to the world. He concludes that love leads to confidence in our relationship with God and compels us to serve others, highlighting the practical implications of divine love in our lives.
Christian Consciousness, a Witness for God
By Charles Finney0Christian ExperienceWitnessing for GodPSA 34:8ISA 43:10MAT 5:16JHN 14:6JHN 17:3ACT 1:8ROM 8:162CO 5:17HEB 11:11JN 4:16Charles Finney emphasizes the significance of Christian consciousness as a powerful witness for God, arguing that true religion is rooted in personal experience and consciousness. He asserts that the testimony of Christians, based on their own experiences of transformation and knowledge of God, serves as the highest proof of the reality of faith. Finney contends that while counter-testimonies are merely negative, the positive experiences of believers provide undeniable evidence of divine truth. He encourages Christians to boldly share their experiences, as they are vital in affirming the truth of the Gospel and countering skepticism. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of the profound impact of personal testimony in the realm of faith.
The Unsought Love of God
By John Nelson Darby0God's LoveReconciliationPSA 51:10ISA 1:3MAT 19:22JHN 3:16ROM 5:12CO 5:20GAL 2:20EPH 2:8HEB 4:161JN 4:16John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound insensibility of souls towards their spiritual state and the indifference they show to God's love. He illustrates how, like Adam, people often choose worldly pleasures over a relationship with God, leading to spiritual ruin. Despite this, Darby highlights the unsought love of God, which is revealed through Christ's sacrifice, offering reconciliation and peace to sinners. He urges listeners to recognize the gravity of their sin and the incredible grace of God, who desires a relationship with them. Ultimately, he calls for a response of faith and joy in God's love, encouraging believers to rest in His grace and share in the hope of glory.
Letter: 1e 1 B. & S. Plymouth, Dublin, May, 1832
By John Nelson Darby0Unity in ChristThe Power of LoveJHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 13:4GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 1:271TH 5:11HEB 10:241PE 3:91JN 4:16John Nelson Darby expresses his heartfelt gratitude and love towards the brethren and sisters in Plymouth, emphasizing the importance of unity and love among believers. He acknowledges the kindness shown to him and encourages the church to maintain their spirit of love, which reflects God's presence. Darby highlights the healing power of love in overcoming the disease of sin and urges the congregation to stand firm in their faith despite challenges and persecution. He shares testimonies of God's work among them, including miraculous recoveries, and calls for continued labor in the Lord's work. Ultimately, he longs for their continued fellowship and spiritual growth, reminding them to remain steadfast in their faith.
Epistles of John Chapter 5 the Love of God
By A.B. Simpson0Love for One AnotherGod's LoveMAT 22:39JHN 3:16ROM 8:28GAL 5:131JN 4:81JN 4:121JN 4:161JN 4:19A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound nature of God's love as revealed through the teachings of John, the beloved disciple. He explains that God is love, and this essence shapes all of His attributes, guiding believers to understand that every experience, even painful ones, is ultimately rooted in divine love. Simpson highlights that Christ is the ultimate manifestation of God's love, and through faith, believers can experience and reciprocate this love, which leads to confidence and a call to love one another. The sermon concludes with the reminder that true love cannot be selfish but must overflow into acts of kindness and service towards others, reflecting God's love for humanity.
Thoughts for the Quiet Hour - June 18
By D.L. Moody0God's LoveFaith and ServiceROM 8:381JN 4:16D.L. Moody emphasizes the profound impact of understanding God's love for us, which is essential for walking closely with Christ and serving Him effectively. He illustrates how recognizing that we are God's beloved can transform our hearts, igniting a passionate response of love and faith. This realization fosters a deep trust in God's promises and turns our sacrifices into joyful acts of love. Moody highlights that this understanding was the key to John's spirit and encourages believers to embrace this truth for a life of enthusiastic service. Ultimately, knowing and believing in God's love empowers us to overcome discouragement and live out His highest will.
Epistle 171
By George Fox0Unity in the SpiritFaithJHN 1:3JHN 5:24JHN 13:35ROM 13:10GAL 5:22EPH 2:8COL 3:171TI 1:5HEB 12:21JN 4:16George Fox emphasizes the necessity of performing all actions in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, urging believers to dwell in love as the hallmark of true discipleship. He critiques the reliance on man-made religious practices and emphasizes that true faith and unity come from the Spirit of God, which empowers believers and leads them to genuine fellowship. Fox warns against the dangers of religious persecution and the hypocrisy of those who pray for forgiveness yet fail to extend it to others. He calls for a return to the pure faith that is a gift from God, which transcends all human traditions and divisions. Ultimately, he encourages believers to remain steadfast in the Spirit, which is the source of their strength and unity.
Epistle 23
By George Fox0Power of God's LoveUnity in ChristJER 23:29JHN 1:1ROM 5:51CO 1:241CO 13:51CO 15:47EPH 4:3EPH 4:16HEB 7:16JAS 1:211JN 4:16George Fox encourages believers to not fear the powers of darkness but to maintain unity and love through the power of God. He emphasizes the importance of meeting together in faith, recognizing the eternal nature of Christ, the second Adam, who transcends earthly struggles. Fox urges friends to remain faithful in God's life and power, allowing Christ to reign among them and fostering a community rooted in peace and love. He highlights the transformative power of God's word, which saves and strengthens the soul against opposition. Ultimately, he calls for a collective commitment to live in the love of God, which builds up the body of Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God is love - See on Jo1 4:8 (note). He that dwelleth in love - he who is full of love to God and man is full of God, for God is love; and where such love is, there is God, for he is the fountain and maintainer of it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And we--John and his readers (not as Jo1 4:14, the apostles only). known and believed--True faith, according to John, is a faith of knowledge and experience: true knowledge is a knowledge of faith [LUECKE]. to us--Greek, "in our case" (see on Jo1 4:9). dwelleth--Greek, "abideth." Compare with this verse, Jo1 4:7.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And we have known and believed,.... Or have a full assurance and knowledge of, and faith in, the love that God hath to us; shown as in many instances, so more especially in sending his Son to be the propitiation for our sins, to be the Saviour of us, and that we might live through him. God is love; See Gill on Jo1 4:8, and he that dwelleth in love; who dwells by faith upon the love of God as displayed in Christ, and abides in the exercise of love to God and to the saints: dwelleth in God, and God in him; See Gill on Jo1 4:13; the last clause, "and God in him", is left out in the Syriac version.