Bible

1 John 4:7-16

Introduction to Teaching Series

God’s highest purpose for us as Christians is to make us like Jesus

As we fulfill this purpose by getting to know our Lord better and by obeying him, we will exhibit the fruit of the Spirit whether we are aware of it or not.

Nothing attracts unbe- lievers and believers alike to God as much as seeing a life lived out in love, joy, peace, gentleness and so forth, even though that person may be suffering. A life exhibiting these beautiful qualities can be a powerful tool of evangelism as well as for promoting harmony and unity in the body of Christ.

The word love is often abused these days. It is used in the context of close, cozy feelings; of ecstatic, exuberant sexual passion; and of conditional commitments (“I’ll love you if you live up to my expecta- tions”). From the Christian point of view, what is this thing called love? How do we get it and how can we give it away to others who need it?

When do you feel love? I feel most loved when another person (a) gives me a hug, (b) brings me a hot meal when I’m sick, (c) really tunes in and listens to me, (d) shares him or herself with me, (e) gently confronts me in an area where I need help,

In this study we’ll see what John, Jesus’ disciple and close friend says about love. The word love (or some form of it) is mentioned sixteen times in 1 John 4. Read 1 John 4:7-16.

Love comes from God. (Vs 7-8)

-God is simply love

-he loved us by sending Jesus to die as the punishment for our sins.

which shows us how to understand God’s love.

2.Gods love can motivate us to love others. (Vs 11-12)

it teaches us the importance of loving others and forgiving others.

What basis do we have for the assurance of love (vv. 13-16)?

He gives us his spirit We are witnesses to salvation We have assuranceWe have the guarantee of Christ love

God’s love demonstrated through other Christians

Those who truly have God living on the inside of them operate only in love.

You can operate in hate and be a Christian at the same time

Recognizing that love is not based on feelings, what are some practical ways you can show the fruit of love to that person?

Choose specific action you will take in this coming week to show the fruit of love to this person.

Pray specifically about the steps you will take toward loving this person, asking God to manifest this fruit in your life