EGW Writings1 John 4

Our High Calling

The Bridge Love Built, January 6

OHC 12.1

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10.

Reflecting Christ

John’s Character Reflected Christ, October 29

RC 316.1

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. 1 John 4:10, 11.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1

Chapter 27—God’s Love

1MCP 247.1

God Is Love—“God is love” (1 John 4:16). His nature, His law, is love. It ever has been; it ever will be. “The high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity” (Isaiah 57:15), whose “ways are everlasting” (Habakkuk 3:6), changeth not. With Him “is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17).

1MCP 251.2

Love Makes Our Heaven—It is the love of Christ that makes our heaven. But when we seek to tell of this love, language fails us. We think of His life on earth, of His sacrifice for us; we think of His work in heaven as our advocate, of the mansions He is preparing for those who love Him; and we can but exclaim, “Oh, the heights and depths of the love of Christ!” As we linger beneath the cross, we gain a faint conception of the love of God, and we say, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10). But in our contemplation of Christ, we are only lingering round the edge of a love that is measureless. His love is like a vast ocean, without bottom or shore.—The Review and Herald, May 6, 1902.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 19—The Measure of Forgiveness

COL 245.1

Here is the ground upon which we should exercise compassion toward our fellow sinners. “If God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:11. “Freely ye have received,” Christ says, “freely give.” Matthew 10:8.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

To Be Given to Our Children

8T 320.2

“If God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:11.

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 39—The Knowledge Received Through God’s Word

MH 460.3

“If God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:11.

The Upward Look

Blend in Unity, December 10

UL 358.1

Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. 1 John 4:11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 56, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 21

“Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” [1 John 4:11.] Will all who are disregarding the commands of the Scriptures in regard to unity see that they are guilty of transgressing the law of God as verily, as though they transgressed the fourth commandment of the decalogue? The exhortation of Paul to the Colossians is for us also. “For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches unto the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledging of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ: in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you by enticing words.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 72, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 72, 1906, par. 13

“Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” [1 John 4:11.] “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God; therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth Himself even as He is pure.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 17, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 17, 1894, par. 31

When they are walking in darkness they are bewildered and know not whither they go, because the darkness hath blinded their eyes. We want to understand that there is a distinction between our brethren and the world. We must love those that have not the truth, but those that are connected with Jesus Christ, those that are of the household of faith, we are bound by the most sacred injunction to love them and to seek to be a help and blessing to them in every way. “Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” [1 John 4:11.] Write this upon the tables of your heart. Obey the Word of God. “No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby we know that we dwell in him and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.” [Verses 12, 13.] We want to love our brethren, and jealously guard every brother and sister, and then we are working in harmony with Jesus Christ.

The Sanctified Life

Chapter 7—The Character of John

SL 53.3

John’s love for his Master was not a mere human friendship, but it was the love of a repentant sinner, who felt that he had been redeemed by the precious blood of Christ. He esteemed it the highest honor to work and suffer in the service of his Lord. His love for Jesus led him to love all for whom Christ died. His religion was of a practical character. He reasoned that love to God would be manifested in love to His children. He was heard again and again to say, “Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another” (1 John 4:11). “We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” (verses 19, 20). The apostle’s life was in harmony with his teachings. The love which glowed in his heart for Christ, led him to put forth the most earnest, untiring labor for his fellow men, especially for his brethren in the Christian church. He was a powerful preacher, fervent, and deeply in earnest, and his words carried with them a weight of conviction.

My Life Today

Loving Thoughtfulness in the Home, June 18

ML 173.1

If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. 1 John 4:12.

Our High Calling

Root Out the Poisonous Plants, June 24

OHC 181.5

Instead of finding fault with others, let us be critical with ourselves. Every one should inquire, Is my heart right before God? Am I glorifying my heavenly Father? If you have cherished a wrong spirit, banish it from the soul. Eradicate from your heart everything that is of a defiling nature. Pluck up every root of bitterness, lest others be contaminated by the baleful influence. Do not allow one poisonous plant to remain in the soil of your heart. Root it out this very hour, and cultivate in its stead the plant of love. Let Jesus be enshrined in the soul-temple.... “If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.” 1 John 4:12.51The Review and Herald, February 25, 1904.

Reflecting Christ

God’s Law of Love Perfected in Us, February 28

RC 73.1

If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. 1 John 4:12.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 54—The Good Samaritan

HLv 338.5

The story of the good Samaritan and the character of Jesus reveal the true significance of the law and what is meant by loving our neighbor as ourselves. And when the children of God manifest love toward all men, they also are witnessing to the character of the statutes of heaven. “If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us.” 1 John 4:12.

Homeward Bound

Self-Sacrifice in the Church, August 12

HB 249.1

If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us.—1 John 4:12.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 54—The Good Samaritan

DA 505.1

All this is but a fulfillment of the principle of the law,—the principle that is illustrated in the story of the good Samaritan, and made manifest in the life of Jesus. His character reveals the true significance of the law, and shows what is meant by loving our neighbor as ourselves. And when the children of God manifest mercy, kindness, and love toward all men, they also are witnessing to the character of the statutes of heaven. They are bearing testimony to the fact that “the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” Psalm 19:7. And whoever fails to manifest this love is breaking the law which he professes to revere. For the spirit we manifest toward our brethren declares what is our spirit toward God. The love of God in the heart is the only spring of love toward our neighbor. “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” Beloved, “if we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us.” 1 John 4:20, 12.

Ye Shall Receive Power

The Spirit Moves Among Us, January 21

YRP 29.1

Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. 1 John 4:13.

God’s Amazing Grace

Seen and Heard, September 1

AG 252.1

And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. 1 John 4:14.

Lift Him Up

A Door of Hope for Sinners, January 9

LHU 23.1

We have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be Saviour of the world. 1 John 4:14.

Sons and Daughters of God

To Confess Christ, July 1

SD 189.1

Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. 1 John 4:15.

Christ Triumphant

God Is Love, January 1

CTr 7.1

God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 1 John 4:16.

Prayer

“Forgive us our sins; for we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.” Luke 11:4.

Pr 298.3

The one thing essential for us in order that we may receive and impart the forgiving love of God is to know and believe the love that He has to us. 1 John 4:16. Satan is working by every deception he can command, in order that we may not discern that love. He will lead us to think that our mistakes and transgressions have been so grievous that the Lord will not have respect unto our prayers and will not bless and save us. In ourselves we can see nothing but weakness, nothing to recommend us to God, and Satan tells us that it is of no use; we cannot remedy our defects of character. When we try to come to God, the enemy will whisper, It is of no use for you to pray; did not you do that evil thing? Have you not sinned against God and violated your own conscience? But we may tell the enemy that “the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. When we feel that we have sinned and cannot pray, it is then the time to pray. Ashamed we may be and deeply humbled, but we must pray and believe. “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15. Forgiveness, reconciliation with God, comes to us, not as a reward for our works, it is not bestowed because of the merit of sinful men, but it is a gift unto us, having in the spotless righteousness of Christ its foundation for bestowal.

Reflecting Christ

Sanctification Is the Result of Lifelong Obedience, March 8

RC 81.4

True sanctification comes through the working out of the principle of love. “God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him” (chap. 4:16). The life of him in whose heart Christ abides, will reveal practical godliness. The character will be purified, elevated, ennobled, and glorified. Pure doctrine will blend with works of righteousness; heavenly precepts will mingle with holy practices....

Reflecting Christ

God’s Children to Be Light Bearers, November 1

RC 319.6

It is thus that men are led to believe “the love that God hath to us” (1 John 4:16). Thus hearts once sinful and corrupt are purified and transformed, to be presented “faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy” (Jude 24).—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 41, 42.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 55—Transformed by Grace

AA 560.1

True sanctification comes through the working out of the principle of love. “God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” 1 John 4:16. The life of him in whose heart Christ abides, will reveal practical godliness. The character will be purified, elevated, ennobled, and glorified. Pure doctrine will blend with works of righteousness; heavenly precepts will mingle with holy practices.

The Faith I Live By

Filled With His Righteousness, April 13

FLB 109.2

Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and “God is love.” 1 John 4:16. It is conformity to the law of God, for “all thy commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:172), and “love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10). Righteousness is love, and love is the light and the life of God. The righteousness of God is embodied in Christ. We receive righteousness by receiving Him.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.”—Matthew 5:6.

MB 18.1

Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and “God is love.” 1 John 4:16. It is conformity to the law of God, for “all Thy commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:172), and “love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10). Righteousness is love, and love is the light and the life of God. The righteousness of God is embodied in Christ. We receive righteousness by receiving Him.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Ye are the light of the world.”—Matthew 5:14.

MB 42.1

It is thus that men are led to believe “the love that God hath to us.” 1 John 4:16. Thus hearts once sinful and corrupt are purified and transformed, to be presented “faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.” Jude 24.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“When ye pray, say, Our Father.”—Luke 11:2.

MB 104.5

The very first step in approaching God is to know and believe the love that He has to us (1 John 4:16); for it is through the drawing of His love that we are led to come to Him.

In Heavenly Places

How Faith Works, April 13

HP 110.2

Christ has shown His great love for us by giving His life that we should not perish in our sins, that He might clothe us with His salvation. If this divine love is cherished in our hearts, it cements and strengthens our union with those of like faith. “He that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him” (1 John 4:16). The strengthening of our love for our brethren and sisters strengthens our love for Christ. This principle of love for God and for those for whom Christ died, needs to be quickened by the Holy Spirit and cemented with brotherly kindness, tenderness; it needs to be strengthened by acts which testify that God is love. This union, which joins heart with heart, is not the result of sentimentalism, but the working of a healthful principle. Faith works by love, and purifies the soul from all selfishness. Thus the soul is perfected in love. And having found grace and mercy through Christ’s precious blood, how can we fail to be tender and merciful? ...

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Forgive us our sins; for we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.”—Luke 11:4.

MB 115.1

The one thing essential for us in order that we may receive and impart the forgiving love of God is to know and believe the love that He has to us. 1 John 4:16. Satan is working by every deception he can command, in order that we may not discern that love. He will lead us to think that our mistakes and transgressions have been so grievous that the Lord will not have respect unto our prayers and will not bless and save us. In ourselves we can see nothing but weakness, nothing to recommend us to God, and Satan tells us that it is of no use; we cannot remedy our defects of character. When we try to come to God, the enemy will whisper, It is of no use for you to pray; did not you do that evil thing? Have you not sinned against God and violated your own conscience? But we may tell the enemy that “the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. When we feel that we have sinned and cannot pray, it is then the time to pray. Ashamed we may be and deeply humbled, but we must pray and believe. “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15. Forgiveness, reconciliation with God, comes to us, not as a reward for our works, it is not bestowed because of the merit of sinful men, but it is a gift unto us, having in the spotless righteousness of Christ its foundation for bestowal.

To Be Like Jesus

Everyone to Work for the Lost, December 27

BLJ 379.1

And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. 1 John 4:16, NKJV.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 55—John’s Secret of True Sanctification

TT 294.4

True sanctification comes through the working out of the principle of love. “God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” 1 John 4:16. The life of him in whose heart Christ abides will be ennobled. Pure doctrine will blend with works of righteousness.

Homeward Bound

Righteousness Is ...! March 16

HB 93.2

Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and “God is love.” (1 John 4:16.) It is conformity to the law of God, for “all Thy commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:172), and “love is the fulfilling of the law.” (Romans 13:10.) Righteousness is love, and love is the light and the life of God. The righteousness of God is embodied in Christ. We receive righteousness by receiving Him.

Homeward Bound

Sanctification Is ...! March 17

HB 94.4

True sanctification comes through the working out of the principle of love. “God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” (1 John 4:16.) The lives of those in whose hearts Christ abides, will reveal practical godliness. The character will be purified, elevated, ennobled, and glorified. Pure doctrine will blend with works of righteousness; heavenly precepts will mingle with holy practices.

With God at Dawn

He that Dwelleth in God Dwelleth in Love, February 1

WGD 34.1

And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 1 John 4:16.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 47, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 47, 1894, par. 16

A rich man cannot, as such, enter heaven. He will have no title to his immortal inheritance and eternal reward; but the God of heaven can and will do great things for those who have worshiped mammon if they will co-operate with God. Through His grace He can transform the character. By beholding Jesus in His lowliness, in His self-denial and self-sacrifice, the self-sufficient, lordly, boasting rich man will see himself in contrast as wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked, and will become so small in his own estimation that he will prefer Christ to himself, and will lay hold on eternal life. Thus all things are possible with God. Jesus dwells in the heart of the rich man, and His love is perfected in him. “God is love, and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [1 John 4:16.] The whole law is fulfilled in him who loves God with all the heart, for the natural result will be sure to be revealed, which is love to his fellow man; he loves his neighbor as himself. This is the explanation of the announcement of the angels to the shepherds, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 52, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 52, 1894, par. 9

Whether we live, or die, we are the Lord’s. His Spirit makes us like Jesus Christ in temper and disposition, and we represent Christ to others. When Christ is abiding in the soul, the fact cannot be hid, for He is like a well of water springing up into everlasting life. We can but represent the likeness of Christ in our character; and our words, our deportment, produces in others a deep, abiding, increasing love for Jesus, and we make manifest in word and deportment that we are conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” [Romans 8:16.] The language expressed by John will be the language of every individual soul,—“We have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [1 John 4:16.]

Lift Him Up

Encircled With His Love, January 31

LHU 45.4

The very first step in approaching God is to know and believe the love that He has to us (1 John 4:16); for it is through the drawing of His love that we are led to come to Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 175, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 175, 1902, par. 9

Not the laws of the impulsive tongue or hand, but the loving pulsation of the converted heart, are from God. “God is love, and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [1 John 4:16.] And when Christ would define the advancement possible for us, He said, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] He interprets His love in still another way, “Be ye therefore merciful, even as your Father in heaven is merciful.” [Luke 6:36.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 145, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 145, 1902, par. 13

My dear friends, let the truth of God abide in your hearts. Then, with sanctified lips, you will repeat the message of mercy. Faith grows by exercise, and as it grows, love for the Redeemer increases. “God is love, and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [1 John 4:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 252, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 252, 1903, par. 6

“God is love, and he that dwelleth in God dwelleth in love.” [1 John 4:16.] It is your privilege to declare that you know by experience that the Lord is gracious. Jesus loves you. Only believe this, and your cheerfulness will represent Him. Talk faith, and you will have faith.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 20, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 20, 1906, par. 31

The Holy Spirit always leads to the written Word. The Holy Spirit is a person; for He beareth witness with our spirits that we are the children of God. When this witness is borne, it carries with it its own evidence. At such times we believe and are sure that we are the children of God. What strong evidence of the power of truth we can give to believers and unbelievers when we can voice the words of John, “We have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [1 John 4:16.]

Lift Him Up

God’s Love Expressed in Creation, February 5

LHU 50.2

“God is love” (1 John 4:16). His nature, His law, is love.... Every manifestation of creative power is an expression of infinite love. The sovereignty of God involves fullness of blessing to all created beings....

My Life Today

John’s Love and Loyalty, September 10

ML 257.1

And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. 1 John 4:16.

Our Father Cares

Filled With His Righteousness, March 10

OFC 81.2

Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and “God is love.” 1 John 4:16. It is conformity to the law of God, for “all thy commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:172), and “love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10). Righteousness is love, and love is the light and the life of God. The righteousness of God is embodied in Christ. We receive righteousness by receiving Him.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 1—Why was Sin Permitted?

PP 33.1

“God is love.” 1 John 4:16. His nature, His law, is love. It ever has been; it ever will be. “The high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity,” whose “ways are everlasting,” changeth not. With Him “is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” Isaiah 57:15; Habakkuk 3:6; James 1:17.

Prayer

“When ye pray, say Our Father.” Luke 11:2.

Pr 291.3

The very first step in approaching God is to know and believe the love that He has to us (1 John 4:16); for it is through the drawing of His love that we are led to come to Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 43, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 43, 1892, par. 7

The apostle who leaned on the bosom of Christ tells us, “We have known and believed the love that God hath to us.” If we can individually say this we are indeed rich in faith. Many of us, amid our imperfections, discouragements, afflictions and bereavements, have this important lesson to learn. “God is love and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God.” “Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.” [1 John 4:16, 17.]

Selected Messages Book 3

Chapter 22—Emphasis on Salvation Theme—1890-1908

3SM 200.4

Surrounded With Heaven’s Atmosphere—1898—“We love him, because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). True conversion, true sanctification, will be the cause of the change in our views and our feelings toward one another and toward God. “We have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him” (Verse 16). We must increase in faith. We must know the sanctification of the Spirit. In earnest prayer we must seek God, that the divine Spirit may work in us. God then will be glorified by the example of the human agent. We shall be workers together with God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 105, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 105, 1898, par. 18

“We love him, because he first loved us.” [1 John 4:19.] True conversion, true sanctification, will be the cause of the change in our views and our feelings toward one another and toward God. “We have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [Verse 16.] We must increase in faith. We must know the sanctification of the Spirit. In earnest prayer we must seek God, that the divine Spirit may work in us. God then will be glorified by the example of the human agent. We shall be workers together with God.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]

MR No. 806—Stephen Belden and Norfolk Island

10MR 144.3

There must be a reformation on this point, else there will be in our churches a perilous departing from God. “We have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love: and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in the world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love Him, because He first loved us. If any man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from Him, That he who loveth God love his brother also” (1 John 4:16-21).

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Manuscript 82, 1898

2SAT 119.2

How broad, how full is this love. The new part of that commandment the disciples did not understand. They were to love one another as Christ had loved them. These were their credentials that Christ was formed within, the hope of glory. After the sufferings of Christ, after His crucifixion and resurrection and proclamation over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life,” after His words to the five hundred who assembled to see Him in Galilee, and after His ascension to heaven, the disciples had some idea of what the love of God comprehended, and of the love they were to exercise one toward another. When the Holy Spirit rested on them on the day of Pentecost, that love was revealed. John could say to his brother disciples: [1 John 3:16-18; 4:16-21, quoted].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 146, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 146, 1902, par. 18

There must be a reformation on this point, else there will be in our churches a perilous departing from God. “We have known and believed the love that God hath for us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” “Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as he is, so are we in the world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear; because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If any man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar; for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God, whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.” [1 John 4:16-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 7, 1866

1LtMs, Ms 7, 1866, par. 3

Brother Wicks made a sad mistake of shifting the responsibility of his stewardship upon his wife, and she made a sad mistake in urging him to do so. The Searcher of hearts, to whom the intents and purposes of every heart stand faithfully revealed, was acquainted with the motives and purposes, and this transfer of property was not from motives which would stand the test of the judgment. Sister Wicks’ peculiar traits of character are penurious, selfish, acquisitive. In order for her to be benefited by the mediation of Christ and inherit eternal life, she must be an overcomer and imitate the character of her divine Lord, doing good to others, living for the benefit of others, loving others as Christ has loved us. The precious gift of love, possessed so largely by our Saviour, she is a stranger to. His life was characterized by noble, disinterested benevolence. His whole life was not marred by one selfish act. “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” 1 John 2:6. “Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: Because as he is, so are we in this world.” 1 John 4:17. “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” 2 Peter 1:4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 29, 1868

1LtMs, Lt 29, 1868, par. 3

“Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as he is, so are we in this world.” [1 John 4:17.] “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.]

Sons and Daughters of God

To Enjoy Perfect Love, July 5

SD 193.1

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18.

The Review and Herald

February 23, 1897

RH February 23, 1897, par. 1

“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.... And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.” (See further 1 John 4:18-21.)

Conflict and Courage

Beloved Disciple, November 5

CC 315.1

We love him, because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 25, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 25, 1892, par. 3

How precious in time of need is the assurance of union with Jesus! The precious Saviour is then everything to us. We love His words, we love to follow in His footprints. We can say, “We love Him because He first loved us” [1 John 4:19], and has given His life an inestimable price for our redemption. It is our privilege to have our life hid with Christ in God, and when He who is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear with Him in glory. Can it be that so great a blessing is to be ours? Are we to be bound with the cords of everlasting unity with Christ, and through Christ with the Father? Can it be that so great a blessing is to be ours? Could we be more greatly blessed? As the branch is part of the vine, so are those who believe in Jesus to be a part of Him. What a large hope we have in Him!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 120, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 120, 1899, par. 7

Good works do not purchase the love of God, but they reveal that we possess that love. If we surrender our will and way to God, we will not work for God’s love; we will obey the commandments of God because it is right to do thus. The disciple John wrote, “We love him, because he first loved us.” [1 John 4:19.] The true spiritual life will be revealed in every soul who is doing service for Christ. Those who are alive to Christ are imbued with His spirit, and they cannot help working in His vineyard. They work the works of God. Let every soul think prayerfully, that he may act consistently.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Are We in the Faith?

GW92 429.1

“We love him, because he first loved us.” [1 John 4:19.] It is impossible for us to believe that Jesus endured the untold agonies of the cross for us, without having our hearts melted in love for him. And if we love him, we shall be solicitous to please him, to obey him. The heart stirred by the love of Christ will earnestly inquire, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?”

Lift Him Up

The Principle of Love in the Law, May 17

LHU 151.1

We love him, because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19.

LHU 151.4

The loveliness of the character of Christ will be seen in His followers. It was His delight to do the will of God. Love to God, zeal for His glory, was the controlling power in our Saviour’s life. Love beautified and ennobled all His actions. Love is of God. The unconsecrated heart cannot originate or produce it. It is found only in the heart where Jesus reigns. “We love, because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19, RV). In the heart renewed by divine grace, love is the principle of action. It modifies the character, governs the impulses, controls the passions, subdues enmity, and ennobles the affections. This love, cherished in the soul, sweetens the life and sheds a refining influence on all around.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1

Chapter 23—Love—A Divine, Eternal Principle

1MCP 206.2

Love Not an Impulse but a Divine Principle—Supreme love for God and unselfish love for one another—this is the best gift that our heavenly Father can bestow. This love is not an impulse but a divine principle, a permanent power. The unconsecrated heart cannot originate or produce it. Only in the heart where Jesus reigns is it found. “We love Him, because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). In the heart renewed by divine grace, love is the ruling principle of action.—The Acts of the Apostles, 551 (1911).

Steps to Christ

Chapter 7—The Test of Discipleship

SC 59.3

The loveliness of the character of Christ will be seen in His followers. It was His delight to do the will of God. Love to God, zeal for His glory, was the controlling power in our Saviour’s life. Love beautified and ennobled all His actions. Love is of God. The unconsecrated heart cannot originate or produce it. It is found only in the heart where Jesus reigns. “We love, because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19, R.V. In the heart renewed by divine grace, love is the principle of action. It modifies the character, governs the impulses, controls the passions, subdues enmity, and ennobles the affections. This love, cherished in the soul, sweetens the life and sheds a refining influence on all around.

This Day With God

The Test of Sincerity, August 23

TDG 244.6

Good works do not purchase the love of God, but they reveal that we possess that love. If we surrender our will and way to God, we will not work for God’s love; we will obey the commandments of God because it is right to do thus. The disciple John wrote, “We love him, because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). The true spiritual life will be revealed in every soul who is doing service for Christ. Those who are alive to Christ are imbued with His spirit, and they cannot help working in His vineyard. They work the work of God. Let every soul think prayerfully, that he may act consistently.—Manuscript 120, August 23, 1899, “Go, Work Today in My Vineyard.”

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”—Matthew 5:7.

MB 21.3

The heart of man is by nature cold and dark and unloving; whenever one manifests a spirit of mercy and forgiveness, he does it not of himself, but through the influence of the divine Spirit moving upon his heart. “We love, because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19 , R.V.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 26, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 26, 1886, par. 8

Can we expect the blessing of God to rest upon a church when the members are cherishing bitterness against one another? Why is it, that when such a condition as this exists among you, that you do not drive it out? Meet together and faithfully show from the Word the wrong done to the whole church. The Word of God declares, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen.” 1 John 4:20. Those in whose hearts Christ abides will show in their lives the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness. Those who are controlled by the enemy will be filled with envy, strife, malice, and evil surmising.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Unseen, October 20

JNN 309.1

For he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?—1 John 4:20

Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]

MR No. 1256—Reproof for False Statements Regarding Promotion of EGW Books; Unfair Treatment of Publishing House Workers; God’s Law to be Obeyed

17MR 118.1

“By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” [1 John 5:3, 4]. “If a man say, I Love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from Him, That he who loveth God love his brother also” [1 John 4:20, 21].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 15, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 15, 1895, par. 34

“By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” [Verses 2-4.] “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God will love his brother also.” [1 John 4:20, 21.]

Maranatha

Motivated by Love, April 3

Mar 101.1

And this commandment we have from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also. 1 John 4:21.