1 John 4:7

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

King James Version

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.

New International Version

Love

The meaning behind 1 John 4:7

1 John 4:7 highlights the centrality of love in the Christian life. In this verse, the apostle John is exhorting fellow believers to have sincere love for one another. He grounds this command in the truth that love comes from God.

In the previous verses, John has been discussing discernment of spirits and overcoming false prophets. After warning believers to test various spirits, he now reminds them of the importance of love. Even while standing for truth, followers of Christ must exhibit genuine love.

John states “every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” Those who have experienced the new birth in Christ and have the indwelling Holy Spirit have the capacity to love like God loves. Since God is the very source and essence of love, those who love others demonstrate that they have a deep, intimate relationship with Him. Love is a distinguishing mark of a true believer.

This connection between love and knowing God provides motivation for believers to walk in love. Expressing the self-sacrificing, servant-hearted love shown by Christ allows believers to reflect God’s character to the world. Loving fellow Christians also creates a united community that displays God’s love.

1 John 4:7 teaches that love is a defining trait of those who truly know God. All Christians have received His love and are called to extend that love to those around them. This verse provides a concise yet vital reminder for believers to demonstrate God’s love through caring for and serving one another.