Gracious affections are rooted in the understanding and appreciation of God's divine nature, leading believers to respond with love and compassion towards others. As expressed in 1 John 4:19, "We love because he first loved us," these affections are not driven by self-interest but are a reflection of the excellent nature of divine things. The Bible teaches that true affection arises from a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit, as seen in Galatians 5:22-23, where the fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, and kindness. Jesus exemplifies this in Matthew 5:44, where He instructs His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them, highlighting that gracious affections extend even to those who may not reciprocate. Moreover, in Ephesians 4:32, Paul encourages believers to be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave them. These scriptures collectively illustrate that gracious affections are not mere emotional responses but are deeply rooted in the character of God and His redemptive work in our lives. As believers cultivate these affections, they reflect the heart of Christ and contribute to the building up of the body of Christ, fostering unity and love within the community of faith.
Jonathan Edwards preaches about the primary foundation of gracious affections, emphasizing that true love for God and divine things stems from recognizing their transcendently excellent and amiable nature, rather than any self-interest or benefits received. He refutes the notion that all love arises