“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” – 1 John 3:1
Bible Verses About 1 John 3:1-3
The Love of the Father
In our faith journey, we cannot overlook the immense love God has for us. This deep love is the foundation upon which our identity is built. We are celebrated not just as creations of God but as His beloved children. When we embrace the idea that we are loved so profoundly, it transforms how we see ourselves and others. This love invites us to reflect this same affection in our relationships, encouraging us to love one another as God loves us. As we explore 1 John 3:1-3, let’s remember that our understanding of love begins with the Father’s heart, which is generous and full of grace.
1 John 3:1
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” – 1 John 3:1
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
Ephesians 2:4-5
“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved!” – Ephesians 2:4-5
1 John 4:9
“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” – 1 John 4:9
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
The Identity in Christ
Understanding our identity as children of God is transformational. It shapes how we see ourselves and the world around us. In 1 John 3:1-3, we learn that we are not only created beings but are heirs of the kingdom, empowered by the Spirit. Our identity in Christ means freedom from guilt, fear, and shame. Recognizing our place as children allows us to live boldly, with the assurance that we are loved and accepted. As we reflect on our identity, we are called to share that same acceptance with others, encouraging everyone to see how wonderfully they are made in God’s image.
Galatians 3:26
“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.” – Galatians 3:26
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Romans 8:17
“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” – Romans 8:17
John 1:12
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” – John 1:12
Ephesians 1:5
“He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.” – Ephesians 1:5
The Hope of the Future
1 John 3:2 opens our eyes to the hope that anchors our souls. Our knowledge as children of God fills our hearts with anticipation for what lies ahead. We are reminded that our current circumstances do not define us; instead, our future is bright because we know we will be like Him. This hope makes the struggles of today feel lighter. As we walk this journey, let’s remind one another of the glorious future that awaits us, keeping our eyes set on the truth of God’s promises and the assurance that He will fulfill them in us.
Titus 1:2
“In the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time.” – Titus 1:2
Romans 8:18
“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” – Romans 8:18
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
2 Corinthians 4:17
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” – 2 Corinthians 4:17
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
The Call to Purity
We see in 1 John 3:3 that a significant part of being God’s children is our calling to purity. This isn’t just about the absence of sin, but it’s about reflecting God’s holiness in our lives. As we eagerly await the return of Christ, we are encouraged to strive for a life that honors Him in thought, word, and deed. Purity, then, becomes both our challenge and privilege. With the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can cultivate lives that bear witness to God’s character. Together, we can support each other in this pursuit of holiness, reminding ourselves that it’s through God’s strength we overcome and thrive.
Matthew 5:8
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” – Matthew 5:8
James 4:8
“Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” – James 4:8
1 Peter 1:15-16
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” – 1 Peter 1:15-16
1 John 2:15-17
“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.” – 1 John 2:15
2 Timothy 2:22
“Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” – 2 Timothy 2:22
The Assurance of Salvation
The comfort in knowing we are God’s children brings an assurance of our salvation. In 1 John 3:1-3, we understand that our identity is tied to our relationship with God. This assurance fosters an attitude of confidence in our walk of faith. As we grasp this truth, we know that nothing can separate us from the love of God. We can face challenges boldly, resting confidently in the salvation and grace extended to us. Together, we can celebrate this assurance with one another, encouraging each other to stand firm as we cling to the promises of salvation and eternal life.
John 10:28
“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” – John 10:28
Ephesians 2:8-9
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9
Romans 10:9
“If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” – Romans 10:9
1 John 5:13
“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” – 1 John 5:13
Philippians 3:20
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20
The Power of Love
When we talk about the essence of our identities as reflected in 1 John 3:1-3, the theme of love becomes paramount. Love is not merely a feeling; it’s a powerful motivator that moves us to act selflessly for the good of others. As we embrace God’s love, we are empowered to love others genuinely. This love is a testimony of our relationship with Him and defines our interactions with others. By embodying this love, we create a ripple effect, changing lives through acts of kindness and compassion. Together, let’s strive to love more deeply, fostering an environment of support, encouragement, and care in our communities.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” – Romans 13:10
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14
Ephesians 4:2
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2
The Importance of Community
As we reflect on 1 John 3:1-3, it reminds us of the value of community among believers. Recognizing that we are collectively children of God encourages us to support and uplift one another. In a world that often feels divided, our shared identity in Christ draws us together as one family where we can share our burdens and joys. Let’s commit to being active members in our communities, creating bonds that reflect God’s love and grace in action. Together, we can grow, learn, and impact the world positively, encouraging ambition, hope, and faith as we walk together in our Christian journey.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Acts 2:44-47
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.” – Acts 2:44-47
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Final Thoughts
In exploring 1 John 3:1-3 together, we’ve discovered the depth of the Father’s love, our identity, and the hopes that anchor our faith. It’s clear that being called children of God shapes every aspect of our lives. We find assurance in our salvation and a call to live a life marked by purity and love. Through community and shared experiences, we encourage one another to grow deeper in our faith.
As we continue this journey, let’s remember that our identity as children of God isn’t just a title; it’s a calling. It invites us to live out our faith actively, embracing love and purity, and encouraging our friends and families to do the same. Our future is bright because we have a hope that is unshakeable.
Let’s hold these truths close to our hearts and endeavor to reflect God’s love in every interaction, creating a community that uplifts and inspires one another as true children of the Most High.
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