Why should we love others?

Dr. Amie Gordon, professor and love expert, writes, “What is love? Is it a feeling? A behavior? Some scholars wonder—can we even put love into words?” Many in our society would agree with Dr. Amie. However, have you ever considered what the Bible says about love?

John, one of Jesus’ closest followers writes,

“7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 8 He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:7-11

The love that John describes is unconditional. It’s committed. It’s selfless and sacrificial. This kind of love may sound a bit extreme, but did you know this is the love God has for YOU?

The Bible teaches us that sin separates us from God. Because God is holy, righteous, and a good judge, He must punish sin. However, because He loves us—His creation—He chose to send His Son Jesus to take the punishment of our sin upon the cross. Jesus’ willingness to go to the cross was an act of love. He chose to endure God’s judgment so we could experience forgiveness and enjoy a relationship with God. This means that Jesus died for YOU because He loves YOU. This means you have a choice to make. Will you receive Jesus’ love, or will you reject it? When we receive Jesus’ love by faith, calling upon Him for salvation, we experience forgiveness of our sins. God no longer sees our sin, He sees Jesus’ righteousness applied to our lives. When this happens, the Bible tells us that He makes us new. We get to enjoy all the benefits of being a part of God’s family, and we’re called to share the love that we have received with those around us.

So, why should we love others? We choose to love others because Jesus loves us. Have you surrendered your life to Jesus? Are you walking with Him daily? If so, extend the love you have received to those around you.

If you have questions about following Jesus, Christianity, the Bible, or anything related to what you’ve read, please reach out! We’d love to answer your questions and get to know you.