1 John 3:10-24 - "Love One another"

Draw Me Close: Podcast - A Ministry of Whitestone Christian Fellowship, with Pastor Bob Lawrenz

This week we'll finish up 1 John 3, from verses 10-24.
Throughout his letter, John has been giving us tests to see if we’ve been truly changed by Jesus, tests of a true Christian.
As we finish chapter three, here’s another one: do you love the brethren? If you don’t love others, there’s a problem.
Christians are to be people of love. Love is a gift from God, love is who God is, and love is who we are to be as followers of God.

This message is foundational and fundamental. It’s one of the oldest messages for the followers of God.
John focuses on love for one another (1 John 3:11). This passage consists of three main parts. Verses 11 through 15 focus on the love believers should have for one another. Verses 16 through 18 describe loving one another by our actions. Verses 19 through 24 discuss whether our hearts condemn us or not. First John 3:21 notes, "Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God." When we have confessed our sins and abide (remain) in Christ, we can ask for anything according to His will and receive it (1 John 3:22).
The final two verses also offer an important reminder. John again focuses on love for God through Jesus as well as loving one another, offering teaching closely similar to the Great Commandment in Matthew 22:37–40.
These verses also highlight the triune nature of God. John mentions God twice in verse 24, the Son Jesus Christ in verse 23, and the Spirit in verse 24. All three persons of the triune Godhead are distinct, yet serve in perfect community as the one true God.