1. How would you define love?

2. What is a definition of love in popular culture?

What is Love?

READ 1st John 4:7-8.

This passage says “God is love.” That is a very big difference than saying “God is loving.” Love is not something God tries to do or obey. It’s not a concept that is above God that he tries to act out. Something is loving if it is what God would do. God is love. He is the very definition of love. This is great because God is perfect. Most people get mad at God and say he is not loving because he doesn’t do something they think he should do. In these circumstances, we believe we know what love is better than God. But again, God is love.

3. What is the big difference between these two phrases “God is love” and “God is loving.”

4. This passage also say that we know love because we know God. Why must you know God to know what love really is?

5. What is the motivating factor behind most people’s view of what love is?

How does God show his love?

God is love. Therefore what he does is love. Love is an emotion, so for love to be understood and felt, there must be a tangible expression of love. Otherwise it is just an idea.

READ 1st John 4:9-10.

6. According to this passage, when God decided to most clearly express what love is to us and for us to experience his love most powerfully, it took shape in four ways. Below, are the four ways God’s love is to be experienced by us. Next to each bullet, write why this can be considered love and the significance of each bullet for you?

  • v. 9 - God sent his Son into the world

  • v. 9 - that we might live

  • v. 10 - Not that we loved him, but God first loved us

  • v. 10 - his Son is the propitiation for our sins

7. Take in the reality of this love and how God shows his love towards you. Now take a moment and write a paragraph to God. Tell him personally how his love has impacted you.

The Effects of God’s Love On Us

When we are loved authentically and sacrificially it effects how we live. The next section John launches into is how God love impacts us and moves us to action.

READ 1st John 4:11-12

8. What is the natural effect that God’s love should have on us according to this passage? Explain.

9. God cannot be seen, yet this verse says God’s love can be perfected for others in the way we love them. How can God’s love become visible to others?

10. No one can love from an empty love tank. Why must we experience God’s love first before we can really love others? Explain this process?

What was your major takeaway today?