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.
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 Consolation in Affliction
By Thomas Watson6GEN 33:11JOB 1:21PSA 65:11PSA 91:15PSA 119:65PSA 119:711CO 10:132CO 4:171TH 5:181JN 4:16Thomas Watson preaches about finding consolation in affliction by acknowledging God's kindness and faithfulness towards His people. Despite the challenges and heavy afflictions faced by the righteous, God deals well with them by being their God, making them grow wiser and promoting holiness through affliction, providing promises and preventing sin. Afflictions are seen as acts of love from a caring Father, moderating His correction, preventing sin, and leading His children to heaven where eternal glory awaits.
a.w. Tozer Quotes
By A.W. Tozer4Understanding 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.
Our Daily Homily - Jude
By F.B. Meyer3Anticipation of ChristPrayerFaithLUK 12:37JHN 15:9ROM 8:26PHP 4:61TH 5:17HEB 10:231JN 4:16JUD 1:3JUD 1:21REV 3:20F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of keeping ourselves in the love of God, urging believers to remain anchored in their faith amidst the distractions of life. He encourages building on the solid foundation of the faith delivered to the saints, rather than on personal emotions or experiences. Meyer highlights the necessity of praying in the Holy Spirit, allowing divine guidance in our prayers, and maintaining a vigilant anticipation for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. By doing so, believers can experience the fullness of God's love and eternal life.
The Benevolence of God
By Charles Finney3God's LoveDivine BenevolencePSA 136:1PSA 145:9ISA 54:10JER 29:11LAM 3:22MAT 7:11JHN 3:16ROM 8:281PE 5:71JN 4:16Charles Finney emphasizes the profound truth that 'God is love,' explaining that this means God is fundamentally benevolent and devoted to the highest good of all beings. He outlines the implications of this truth, asserting that God's actions are always aligned with His benevolent nature, and He never acts contrary to the ultimate good of creation. Finney argues that God's love is not merely an emotion but a constant, unchanging disposition that governs all His actions, ensuring that He does everything possible to promote the happiness and well-being of His creatures. He also addresses the existence of evil and suffering, explaining that they are incidental to God's benevolent plan, which ultimately results in greater good than harm. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize God's love in all circumstances and to trust in His benevolent intentions.
Abide in My Love
By Andrew Murray2Abiding in ChristThe Power of Divine LoveJHN 14:23JHN 15:9ROM 5:52CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 3:17PHP 4:13COL 3:31JN 3:11JN 4:16Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound significance of abiding in the love of Christ, likening it to making His love our true home. He explains that this abiding is not merely a sentiment but a divine life force that empowers believers to overcome struggles and experience a transformed life. By fully trusting in Christ's love and letting go of self-efforts, believers can tap into the infinite power of His love, which desires to work within them. Murray encourages a deeper faith that focuses on Jesus, urging believers to turn away from distractions and fully occupy themselves with His love. Ultimately, he highlights that true Christian life flows from this continuous connection to Christ's love, enabling believers to live abundantly.
The Power of Grace
By Thomas Reade2DEU 33:12PSA 27:5PSA 90:1JHN 14:21ROM 8:14ROM 8:16HEB 11:131JN 4:161JN 5:13Thomas Reade preaches on the power of God's grace and the blessedness of divine favor, highlighting the promises of protection to His people throughout history. From Abram to Moses, Jacob, Joseph, and David, the beloved of the Lord have always found safety in Him. The sermon emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus, acknowledging His faithfulness, loving-kindness, and the need for a personal relationship with Him for true happiness and salvation.
Zephaniah 3:17
By Chuck Smith1God's MightGod's PresencePSA 16:11PSA 30:5ISA 41:10ZEP 3:17MAT 18:20JHN 3:16ROM 10:13EPH 3:20PHP 4:41JN 4:16Chuck Smith emphasizes the mightiness of God as depicted in Zephaniah 3:17, illustrating His power, wisdom, salvation, joy, and love. He highlights that God is not only mighty in creation and salvation but also rejoices over His people and dwells among them. Smith encourages believers to recognize God's presence and love, assuring them that He is a source of joy and rest. The sermon calls for a personal acknowledgment of God's dwelling in our lives, emphasizing the importance of faith and obedience to His commandments.
A Good Tree Bringeth Forth Good Fruit
By Joshua Daniel1MAT 7:17MAT 7:21MAT 7:24LUK 23:341JN 4:16Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of producing good fruit as a reflection of our inner selves, highlighting the correlation between the nature of a tree and the fruit it bears. He points out the need for love to be the driving force behind our actions, as love and holiness are interconnected. Daniel stresses the transformative power of the Cross in responding to wrongdoers, urging listeners to emulate Jesus' forgiveness and selflessness. He underscores the significance of obedience to God's will, emphasizing that faith overcomes fear and leads to a life built on a solid foundation.
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.
Julian of Norwich Quotes
By Julian of Norwich1PSA 136:26ROM 8:28EPH 2:8PHP 4:61JN 4:16Julian of Norwich preaches about the all-encompassing love and providence of God, assuring that despite challenges and falls, we are always kept in His precious love, and that all shall be well in the end. She emphasizes the importance of prayer rooted in confidence and understanding, highlighting that God's goodness is the highest object of prayer, reaching down to our lowest need. Julian also reflects on the transformative power of grace, turning failings into comfort, glory, and bliss, ultimately leading us to a deeper knowledge of God's love.
- 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.