Introduction:

1. The recurring theme of love which has been discussed twice before in 1 John (2:7-11; 3:10-24) gets its fullest treatment here.

2. This text shows why we ought to practice brotherly love, what it proves, and what it produces.

Discussion:

I. Why We Practice Brotherly Love (4:7-8, 19-21)

A. Because God is its source (4:7-8, 19; Ephesians 5:1-2).

B. Because it demonstrates our love for God, without which we cannot abide with Him (4:20-21; John 14:23-24; Matthew 25:31-46).

C. Because He commanded it (4:21; John 13:34-35; 1 Peter 1:22; 2 Peter 1:7).

II. What Brotherly Love Proves (4:7-11, 14, 19-21)

A. Previously, we saw that love proves we:

1. Abide in the light (2:7-11)

2. Are children of God (3:10)

3. Have passed from death to life (3:14-15).

4. Are of the truth (3:18-19)

B. This text shows that love proves we:

1. Are born of God (4:7-8)

2. Know God (4:7-8)

3. Properly appreciate His love for us (4:11, 19)

4. Have God abiding in us, and we abide in Him (4:12-13, 16)

5. Are like Him in this world (4:17-18; John 13:35)

6. Love God (4:20-21)

III. What Brotherly Love Produces (4:7-8; 12-13, 15-18; 5:1-3)

A. His abiding presence Jesus promised (4:7-8; 12-13, 15; John 14:23).

B. Boldness in the judgment having overcome fear (4:17-18).

C. Being perfected (lit. reaching the intended purpose; 4:18).

D. Submission to His will (John 14:15, 23; 1 John 5:2-3).

1. Brotherly love is a non-negotiable reality of Christianity.

2. May we always do a heart check to test the health of our love!