1 John 4:7-19 : What Matters Most?
As Jesus beloved disciple John grew older, his teaching became increasingly narrowed, focusing entirely upon the love of God in his three letters. God's love is certainly at the heart of the mission and message of Jesus. In his earlier gospel account, John recorded the words, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).
The apostle Paul tells us that God's love is at the core of how we live, and he reminds us that "neither death nor like, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38-39).
In 1 John it is emphasized that God's love is not some abstract concept. It is passion expressed in action. God made love real and present by sending Jesus to live among us and to die for us. God continues to show us love through Jesus' life-giving presence among us. If ever we should question whether God really does love us, the gift and witness of the Hold Spirit confirmed it once more: we are God's beloved. God's love is a truth more basic and reliable than the ground we walk on and the air we breathe.
Our Savior's love is so strong, available, and stabilizing that we can confidently step into each day knowing that the good things are gifts from His hand and the challenges can be faced in His strength. For all of life, His love is what matter most.
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