What are some things I can learn about love and hate in 1 John 3?
1 John 3:1 - 24
ESV - 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. 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.
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Ezekiel Kimosop
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What are some things I can learn about love and hate here? 1 John 3:1-24 This passage of Scripture consolidates a number of topical outlines on moral Christian living. In vv. 1-3 the writer teaches that God's revelation of His love will be more manifestly revealed when we appear before Christ. The writer states in vv.2-3: "Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. 3 And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure." (NKJV). This text celebrates the bountifulness of God's glory when we appear before Him in heaven. In vv.4-9, the writer warns believers on habitual sinfulness. This passage should not be interpreted to teach or imply that believers can attain sinless perfection. Such a theological interpretation would contradict 2 Corinthians 5:21. In vv.10-15, Scripture exhorts us to love one another. Sincere love among God's people invokes jealousy and hatred from the sinful world. Our love for one another is evidence of the divine transformation in our lives that has separated us from this passing evil world (2 Corinthians 5:17). It is instructive that the writer employs the word "love" four times in this passage, illustrating its significance in his exhortation. The word "hate" is twice mentioned. In vv.18-23, the word "love" is once again employed twice by John. The gist of this passage is an exhortation on having a good or clear conscience that is free from sinful condemnation. This is a defining pillar in our life of covenant obedience (vv. 21-23). In v.24, the writer concludes his exhortation by underscoring the significance of Christian obedience under the leading of the Holy Spirit. What do we learn from this passage on love and hate? We learn that we ought to love one another as God's covenant people. This love should be practically demonstrated in word and deed. Our love for God's people comes from God Himself. God extended His love to us in Christ and this love should ooze from us. This loving relationship will distinguish us from the world of sin and disobedience where jealousy and hate is a defining attribute.
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