What’s Love Got to Do With It? Exploring 1 John 3:10-24
Love. It’s a word we use all the time. We say we love our families, our friends, our favorite foods, and even our favorite sports teams. But what does love really have to do with our faith? According to Scripture, the answer is everything.
Love as the Defining Mark of God’s Children
1 John 3:10 sets the stage for our understanding:
"This is how God’s children and the devil’s children become obvious. Whoever does not do what is right is not of God, especially the one who does not love his brother or sister." (1 John 3:10, CSB)
John makes it clear that love isn’t just a suggestion or a warm feeling—it’s a defining mark of those who belong to God. If we do not love, we do not belong to Him. Love is the evidence of a transformed life.
The Example of Cain: Love vs. Hatred
John contrasts love with its opposite: hatred. In verse 12, he points to Cain, who killed his brother Abel out of jealousy. Cain’s heart was consumed by resentment, and instead of looking inward to grow, he chose to eliminate the one who exposed his shortcomings.
We may not physically harm others, but have we ever torn someone down with our words? Have we resented others for their blessings while ignoring what God has given us? Hatred doesn’t always look like violence; sometimes, it looks like bitterness, jealousy, and division.
Love in Action
True love isn’t just words—it’s action.
"Little children, let us not love in word or speech, but in action and in truth." (1 John 3:18, CSB)
Jesus showed us what real love looks like by laying down His life for us. And as His followers, we are called to love sacrificially. This means putting others' needs before our own, offering forgiveness when it’s hard, and serving without expecting anything in return.
Think about it: When was the last time you showed love in action? Do you help those in need? Do you extend grace to those who hurt you? Loving like Jesus isn’t always convenient, but it is always necessary.
The Security of Love
When we walk in love, we can have confidence before God. 1 John 3:21-22 tells us that when we keep God’s commands, we can approach Him boldly, knowing we are in alignment with His will. Love is not just a command; it is the key to a secure and thriving relationship with God.
Takeaways: Living Out Love
Accept Jesus as Your Lord and Savior — Love begins with Him.
Love One Another — It’s not an option; it’s a command.
Abide in Jesus and Keep His Commands — Stay close to Him.
Acknowledge the Holy Spirit — He helps us love beyond our natural ability.
Love is the Only Security Against Hatred
At the end of the day, love is the only thing that protects us from hatred, bitterness, and division. There is no middle ground. We are either walking in love or straying toward hatred. The love God calls us to is not superficial—it is deep, sacrificial, and transformative.
So, what’s love got to do with it? Everything.
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