A Life of Love

A Life of Love

Series: 1 John: That You May Know
Text: 1 John 3:11–24

Main Idea:

A life of Christian love gives evidence to salvation, demonstrates the indwelling of the Spirit, anchors us to the Father, and mimics the Son.

I. Self-Sacrificing Love Separates Us from the World

Key Verse: 1 John 3:11

“For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.”

• The call to love is not up for debate; it’s a core Christian command.

• Jesus is our example:

  “By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us…” (1 John 3:16)

• Romans 5:7–8 shows the radical love of Christ for sinners.

• We are called to love through action and truth, not just words (1 John 3:17–18).

• The early church modeled this in Acts—sacrificial generosity was normal.

• How are we living this out today? Support for others shows this kind of love.

II. Selfish Ambition and Hatred Demonstrate an Unregenerate Heart

Key Verses: 1 John 3:12–15

“We should not be like Cain… who murdered his brother…”

• Cain’s religious appearance masked a dark heart—jealousy led to hate and murder.

• Jesus equates hatred with murder (Matthew 5:21–22).

• Hatred reveals the heart:

  “Whoever does not love abides in death.”

• Christians must handle conflict differently—with love, not hostility.

III. Christian Love Comes with Great Benefits

Key Verses: 1 John 3:19–24

“By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him…”

• Loving others brings assurance of salvation.

• Love strengthens our confidence before God and fuels answered prayer.

• Obeying God’s command to love affirms that He abides in us.

• Other confirming Scriptures:

  • Romans 13:8

  • 1 Peter 4:8

  • Proverbs 10:12

  • Matthew 5:43–48

Conclusion:

John highlights three indicators of true salvation: belief, obedience, and love.

• To grow in belief—step out in faith.

• To grow in obedience—practice obedience.

• To grow in love—act in love.

You strengthen these traits by exercising them through the Spirit’s power.