2. The First Epistle of John The Definition & Value of Brotherly Love 1 Jn 3:16-24

3. Review John gave 2 reasons for why we need to love the brethren –It distinguishes us from children of the devil Along with practicing righteousness –It signifies the passing from death into life But what does it mean to love the brethren? What do we receive from loving the brethren? –We’ll see the answer to these questions in this lesson

4. The Definition of Brotherly Love Love, Greek agape, “a sacrificial love, a selfless love, active goodwill toward another” –1 Jn 3:16 Jesus demonstrated this love on the cross –1 Thes 4:9 – just meditate on what God did We ought to have the same love for the brethren –Would we give up our lives? –Would we live, but “give up” our lives by serving the brethren?

5. The Definition of Brotherly Love A negative example (1 Jn 3:17) –In view of what Christ gave up for us Can we walk like Him and not give up some of what we have? What about ALL that we have? –If we can’t, then answer John’s question “How does the love of God abide in him?”

6. The Definition of Brotherly Love An admonition (1 Jn 3:18) –Love is not a matter of words Talk is cheap –Love is a matter of action and actions done in truth (no false motives) 1 Cor 13:4-8 defines love this way Love benefits not just the recipient, but the giver as well …

7. The Value of Love Assurance before God (1 Jn 3:19-21) –Indicates we are “of the truth” –Even when we condemn ourselves God can see past our failings –To our real motives and desires –To our love for the brethren

8. The Value of Love Leads to positive answers (1 Jn 3:21-23) –We know we can have confidence before God –And receive what we ask of Him Because we keep His commands Because we do what pleases Him Because we believe in Jesus, His Son Because we love one another as He commanded

9. The Value of Love Assures us that He abides in us (1 Jn 3:24) –Jn 15:10 –Jn 14:19-24 –To abide in Christ one must keep His commandments Including the command to love one another

10. Conclusion Aren’t these 3 blessings what every Christian desires? –Abiding in Christ and He in us –God answering our prayers –Confidence in our standing before God For those blessings to be ours … –We must be taught about love by Christ’s example –We must show that same kind of love in our own lives Does the love of God abide in you?