• John teaches that love is the defining evidence of a genuine relationship with God. Because love originates from God, believers are called to continually love one another as a natural response to knowing Him (v.7). Love is not merely an action, but the overflow of God’s nature within the believer.

 

  • John then makes a strong statement: those who do not love do not truly know God, because love is essential to who God is (v.8). Since God is love, knowing Him will always result in a life marked by love toward others.