There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear, because fear > involves punishment. So the one who fears is not complete in love. —1 John 4:18
The assurance of God’s love enables us to be courageous.
“There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear…” —1 John 4:18
John was
“There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear…” —1 John 4:18
The love of God is
“God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his one and only Son into the world so that we might live through him. Love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.” —1 John 4:9-10
God’s love is “free, uncaused, and spontaneous.” —Danny Akin
“No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends.” —John 15:13
Through faith in Jesus, we are given the
“Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God — God remains in him and he in God. And we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. —1 John 4:15-16
Believers do not have to fear:
“The function of love in the believers life is the impartation of a bold confidence…” —Donald Burdick
Experiencing God’s love enables us to live
“the love of Christ compels us” —2 Corinthians 5:14
“There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear…” —1 John 4:18
For further study:
Scripture: Matthew 22:37-40; Romans 5:6-11; 1 Corinthians 13
Resources: “The Pursuing God” by Joshua Ryan Butler
Community Group Guide:
John’s life transformed through God’s love, how has yours changed?
How do you see God’s love as perfect?
Do you struggle with assurance of God’s love?
How does God’s love help you not to dread/fear?
How is God’s love compelling you to see the Kingdom come?
To prepare for next week: Dedication to Christ; Romans 12:1-2