1 John 3:16

By this we know what love is: Jesus laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.

Study Bible

By this we know
The phrase "By this we know" emphasizes the certainty and assurance that believers have in understanding the nature of true love. The Greek word for "know" here is "γινώσκομεν" (ginōskomen), which implies a deep, experiential knowledge. This is not merely intellectual assent but a profound, lived experience of divine truth. In the context of 1 John, this knowledge is rooted in the revelation of God's love through Christ, which is both a historical event and a present reality for believers.

what love is
The phrase "what love is" points to the essence and definition of love from a Christian perspective. The Greek word for love used here is "ἀγάπη" (agapē), which is a selfless, sacrificial love that seeks the best for others. This is the highest form of love, distinct from "φιλία" (philia) or "ἔρως" (eros), which are more about friendship or romantic love. Agapē is the love that God demonstrates and commands His followers to emulate.

Jesus Christ
The mention of "Jesus Christ" is central to the understanding of love in this verse. Jesus, whose name means "Yahweh saves," is the Messiah (Christos in Greek), the Anointed One sent by God. His life and actions are the ultimate demonstration of agapē love. Historically, Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are well-documented events that form the foundation of Christian faith and practice.

laid down His life
The phrase "laid down His life" refers to the voluntary and sacrificial nature of Jesus' death. The Greek word "τίθημι" (tithēmi) means to place or set down, indicating a deliberate act. Jesus' sacrifice was not coerced; it was a willing offering for the redemption of humanity. This act is the ultimate expression of love, as it was done for the benefit of others, fulfilling the prophecies and the will of the Father.

for us
The words "for us" personalize the sacrifice of Christ, emphasizing that His death was on behalf of all humanity. The Greek preposition "ὑπέρ" (hyper) indicates substitution and representation. This highlights the doctrine of atonement, where Jesus took upon Himself the penalty of sin, offering salvation to all who believe. It underscores the personal nature of God's love for each individual.

and we ought
The phrase "and we ought" introduces a moral imperative for believers. The Greek word "ὀφείλομεν" (opheilomen) suggests a debt or obligation. In response to Christ's sacrificial love, Christians are called to live in a manner that reflects that same love. This is not merely a suggestion but a command that flows from the transformative power of experiencing God's love.

to lay down our lives
"To lay down our lives" echoes the sacrificial nature of Christ's love. While it may not always mean physical death, it certainly involves a willingness to put others' needs above our own, even at great personal cost. This call to selflessness is a hallmark of Christian discipleship, where believers are encouraged to follow the example of Christ in their daily interactions and relationships.

for our brothers
The phrase "for our brothers" expands the scope of Christian love to include fellow believers and, by extension, all of humanity. The Greek word "ἀδελφούς" (adelphous) can mean both literal siblings and spiritual family. This reflects the communal aspect of the Christian faith, where love is not just an individual act but a corporate responsibility. It challenges believers to live out their faith in tangible ways, demonstrating the love of Christ to the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
Central figure in Christianity, whose sacrificial death is the ultimate demonstration of love.

2. John the Apostle
The author of 1 John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, known for his emphasis on love and truth.

3. Early Christian Community
The recipients of John's letter, facing challenges of false teachings and needing encouragement in love and truth.

4. The Cross
The event where Jesus laid down His life, serving as the ultimate act of love and sacrifice.

5. Brothers (and Sisters) in Christ
Fellow believers who are called to emulate Christ's love in their relationships with one another.

Teaching Points

Understanding True Love
True love is defined by sacrifice, as demonstrated by Jesus. It is not merely an emotion but an action that often requires selflessness and humility.

Imitating Christ's Sacrifice
As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His sacrificial love. This may not always mean physical death but involves putting others' needs before our own.

Community and Brotherhood
The Christian community is strengthened when believers practice sacrificial love. This fosters unity and reflects Christ's love to the world.

Practical Sacrifice
Consider what it means to "lay down our lives" in daily contexts—time, resources, and personal comfort can be offered in service to others.

Love as a Witness
Our love for one another serves as a testimony to the world of Christ's love. It is a powerful witness that can draw others to faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Jesus' sacrifice on the cross deepen your comprehension of love?

2. In what practical ways can you "lay down your life" for others in your community or church?

3. How does the call to love sacrificially challenge your current relationships with fellow believers?

4. What are some barriers that prevent you from loving others as Christ loved us, and how can you overcome them?

5. How can the love described in 1 John 3:16 serve as a witness to non-believers in your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 15:13
Jesus speaks about the greatest love being laying down one's life for friends, directly connecting to the sacrificial love mentioned in 1 John 3:16.

Romans 5:8
Paul writes about God demonstrating His love through Christ's death for sinners, reinforcing the concept of sacrificial love.

Philippians 2:5-8
Paul encourages believers to have the same mindset as Christ, who humbled Himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross.

1 John 4:9-11
John further elaborates on God's love manifested through Jesus, urging believers to love one another as God loved us.

Matthew 22:37-39
Jesus commands love for God and neighbor, which aligns with the call to love our brothers sacrificially.