“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” – 1 John 3:1
1 John 3 ESV
The Father’s Love
As we reflect on 1 John 3, we are reminded of the incredible love that our Heavenly Father has for us. This love is not just for show; it identifies us as His children. When we embrace this identity, it shifts how we view ourselves and others. God’s love ignites a sense of belonging within us. We are cherished, accepted, and valued. It’s a love that invites us into a new relationship—not just with God, but also with each other. God’s marvelous love should inspire us to extend kindness and love to others, shining our light in a world that often feels dark.
1 John 3:1
“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” – 1 John 3:1
1 John 3:2
“Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.” – 1 John 3:2
1 John 3:3
“And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.” – 1 John 3:3
1 John 3:16
“By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.” – 1 John 3:16
1 John 3:18
“Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18
The Importance of Righteousness
In our journey of faith, righteousness is a cornerstone. 1 John 3 reminds us that living righteously separates us from sin. When we accept our identity as children of God, we’re called to reflect that in our actions. Our choices should align with God’s character, showcasing integrity and virtue. By choosing righteousness, we not only draw closer to God but also inspire others. Our lives become testimonies that influence our surroundings positively. It’s essential to remember that our righteousness is not to boast but to glorify God who empowers us to live rightly.
1 John 3:7
“Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous.” – 1 John 3:7
1 John 3:10
“By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.” – 1 John 3:10
1 John 3:12
“We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous.” – 1 John 3:12
1 John 3:14
“We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.” – 1 John 3:14
1 John 3:24
“Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.” – 1 John 3:24
The Gift of Eternal Life
1 John 3 speaks profoundly about the promise of eternal life. This gift is not just a future hope; it is a present reality that influences how we live today. As children of God, we are assured that through Christ, we have access to eternal life. This assurance motivates us to live with purpose and intention. The knowledge that we are granted eternal life inspires us to share this good news with others. Knowing that our lives have eternal significance is liberating and transforms how we approach our daily responsibilities and interactions.
1 John 3:15
“Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.” – 1 John 3:15
1 John 3:22
“And whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him.” – 1 John 3:22
1 John 3:23
“And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us.” – 1 John 3:23
1 John 3:16-17
“By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” – 1 John 3:16-17
1 John 3:18-19
“Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him.” – 1 John 3:18-19
The Calling to Love
In 1 John 3, we see a clear call to love one another. Love isn’t just a nice idea; it’s an essential commandment that shapes our character as believers. We see that love should manifest itself not merely in words but in actions. This earnest love for one another transforms our communities, reminding us that we are part of a bigger family in Christ. When we love genuinely, we express the heart of God towards others. It’s our calling and our joy to extend God’s love to everyone, starting from our immediate circles and moving outward.
1 John 3:11
“For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.” – 1 John 3:11
1 John 3:17
“But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” – 1 John 3:17
1 John 3:23
“And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us.” – 1 John 3:23
1 John 3:18
“Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18
1 John 3:19
“By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him.” – 1 John 3:19
Living in Truth
In a world filled with conflicting messages, 1 John 3 calls us to center our lives around the truth. We are reminded that truth holds power and clarity in our lives. When we embrace the truth of God’s Word, we align our lives with God’s will and purpose. Living in truth assures us of our identities and what we stand for. It also shapes our relationships, promoting transparency and authenticity. Standing firmly in the truth allows us to navigate life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that God walks beside us in every situation.
1 John 3:19
“By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him.” – 1 John 3:19
1 John 3:10
“By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.” – 1 John 3:10
1 John 3:24
“Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.” – 1 John 3:24
1 John 3:21
“Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God.” – 1 John 3:21
1 John 3:22
“And whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him.” – 1 John 3:22
Assurance of God’s Presence
The assurance of God’s presence is a comforting truth found in 1 John 3. When we know that God is with us, we can face any challenge with courage. This companionship gives life to our faith and strengthens our resolve. We can be filled with hope and joy knowing we are never alone. God’s presence brings comfort and guidance; it illuminates our path and offers us peace amid turmoil. We are encouraged to remain in this awareness, allowing it to influence how we love and serve others.
1 John 3:24
“Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.” – 1 John 3:24
1 John 3:17
“But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” – 1 John 3:17
1 John 3:18
“Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18
1 John 3:20
“For whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything.” – 1 John 3:20
1 John 3:21
“Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God.” – 1 John 3:21
Overcoming Evil
1 John 3 eloquently reminds us that as children of God, we are more than conquerors. Within these verses, we perceive the call to resist evil and embody the light of Christ. God’s power in us enables us to overcome temptations and the challenges presented by a world fraught with darkness. By relying on God’s strength, we keep our focus on righteousness and trust that He is with us during our struggles. Knowing that we have the ability to push back against evil encourages us to take action—not just for ourselves but for others as well.
1 John 3:8
“Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.” – 1 John 3:8
1 John 3:10
“By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.” – 1 John 3:10
1 John 3:14
“We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.” – 1 John 3:14
1 John 3:19
“By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him.” – 1 John 3:19
1 John 3:24
“Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.” – 1 John 3:24
Final Thoughts
As we journey through the words of 1 John 3, we’re reminded of the immense love God has for us. This love shapes our identities as His children and encourages us to live righteously. The call to love one another resonates strongly through every verse, influencing our relationships and how we interact in a world that often lacks compassion.
We are reassured of eternal life, which provides us the motivation to pursue truth and righteousness daily, knowing our actions can reflect God’s love. The presence of God in our lives reassures us of His support, especially while facing temptation and evil. Each verse serves as a guiding light, leading us toward hope, purpose, and a deeper connection with God.
Ultimately, 1 John 3 calls us to a higher standard of living, rooted in love, faith, and a commitment to reflect God’s character. Let’s continue to hold these truths close to our hearts, encouraging one another to shine brightly in our communities and demonstrate the realities of God’s love in our everyday lives.
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