Perfect Love
In the Bible, "perfect love" is often understood as a love that is complete, mature, and devoid of fear. The most referenced scripture concerning this concept is found in 1 John 4:18, which states, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." This passage suggests that perfect love is transformative; it eliminates fear and brings assurance and confidence, particularly in the relationship between believers and God. The love described here is reflective of God's nature—agape love—which is unconditional and sacrificial.Moreover, perfect love is also illustrated in the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the importance of love as a commandment. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus instructs to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" and to "Love your neighbor as yourself." This holistic approach to love encompasses both a deep, abiding relationship with God and a genuine, selfless affection for others. In essence, perfect love in the biblical context represents a comprehensive, fearless, and self-giving love that mirrors God's love for humanity, urging believers to embody this love in their lives.
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A Return to Functional First Century Christianity - Part 1
By Peter Brandon2237:25ROM 5:1Peter Brandon emphasizes the concept of perfect love as described in Romans 5, illustrating how God's love is unconditional and sacrificial, even towards those who are weak, sinful, and considered enemies. He explains that while humanity struggles with sin and feels unworthy, God's love remains steadfast and transformative, offering hope and reconciliation through Jesus Christ. Brandon highlights that perfect love is not only knowledgeable and practical but also a miraculous gift from God, poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. He encourages listeners to open their hearts to receive this love, which can revolutionize their lives and bring them peace with God.
1 John 4:17
By John Gill0JHN 15:12ROM 8:12CO 5:1EPH 5:1PHP 1:61PE 1:41JN 3:11JN 4:121JN 4:17John Gill emphasizes the transformative power of love in the life of a believer, explaining that perfect love casts out fear, particularly the fear of judgment. He highlights that true love for God is demonstrated through love for others, which assures believers of their standing before God on the day of judgment. Gill reassures that those who embody this love will face judgment with boldness, reflecting the character of Christ in their lives. He encourages believers to embrace their identity as children of God, which grants them confidence and hope for eternal life. Ultimately, Gill calls for a life that mirrors Christ's love and holiness in a world that often opposes such values.
Perfect Love Casts Out Fear
By John Piper1.5K35:15JHN 4:34JHN 19:28JAS 2:221JN 3:141JN 4:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of approaching the day of judgment with fearlessness and confidence. He uses the example of a man named Wallace Blom who received a cancer diagnosis to illustrate this point. The preacher explains that when we yield to the power of the Holy Spirit and engage in acts of kindness and love, we feel confident before God. On the other hand, when we are self-centered and focused on worldly comforts, we become weak and insecure. The main message of the sermon is that we should strive to have confidence and boldness for the day of judgment, and to eliminate fear through acts of love and selflessness.