1 John 4:21
The sermon emphasizes the commandment to love God and our brethren as inseparable aspects of Christian faith.
John Gill emphasizes the commandment from God that requires believers to love both Him and their brothers, highlighting that love for God and love for others are inseparable. He points out that this command is not only a directive from God but also a new commandment given by Christ, reinforcing the importance of mutual love among believers. Gill stresses that failing to love one aspect means failing in the other, urging the congregation to recognize the holistic nature of God's command to love.
Text
Ver. 21. And this commandment have we from him,.... Either "from God", as the Alexandrian copy and the Vulgate Latin version read; and that to love the brethren is a commandment of God, is clear from 1Jo 3:23; or from Christ, for it is also a command of his, even his new commandment, which he has given, and his people have received from him:
that he who loveth God, love his brother also; see Joh 13:34; which is an argument persuading to attend to the one as well as to the other; for the same command that requires the one, requires the other: and he that transgresses it in one case, is a transgressor of it, as well as in the other.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Understanding the Commandment
- The Source of the Commandment
- The Importance of Loving Brethren
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II
- The Connection Between Loving God and Loving Others
- Christ's New Commandment
- Implications of Transgressing the Commandment
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III
- Practical Applications of Love
- The Role of Love in Christian Community
- Encouragement to Obey the Commandment
Key Quotes
“that he who loveth God, love his brother also;” — John Gill
“the same command that requires the one, requires the other” — John Gill
“he that transgresses it in one case, is a transgressor of it, as well as in the other.” — John Gill
Application Points
- Reflect on how your love for God is demonstrated through your actions towards others.
- Make a conscious effort to show love and kindness to your brethren in everyday interactions.
- Consider the implications of transgressing the commandment of love in your relationships.