1 John 4:7-16, God’s Communicable Attributes (6, Love)

 c)    Love: He is eternally moved to give.  [Let me say what you are thinking: the “theological definition” is cold, lifeless and lacking.  When the Bible speaks of God’s love it is either part of a story or it is teaching about relationships.  We will think about that shortly.  For now, the definition does give us an important thought.  Love is not defined as a feeling as we often do.  But it recognizes that love must center on an act.  The definition says love always wants to give.  Some might want to say “give sacrificially,” although that isn’t really necessary since giving always empties the lover and fills the beloved. 

Another thing you might be thinking is that the list of Scriptures is quite short.  And you are right about that as well.  Our “excuses” are many.  None of our Scripture lists are exhaustive.  The lists are more representative.  Further, we have done several series of posts on God’s love over the years.  And with the topic of God’s love, we have the problem that “love” is truly the foundation of God’s attributes.  Many of them spring from His love. It’s like Gal. 5:22-23 where many consider the first “fruit of the Spirit” which is love to be worked out in the other eight qualities.  They are, when you think about it, all aspects of love.  We should not be surprised.  Remember: love is the greatest attribute (1 Cor. 13:14).  Love is the bond of maturity (Col. 3:14).  Love is the end or goal of maturity (2 Peter 1:5-7).

The previous note leads me to say, as well, that we have included in our consideration of “love” the Hebrew term checed.  This is translated in English versions with a variety of terms such as lovingkindness, goodness, mercy and so forth.  There is a Hebrew term for “love” (ahab, first use in Gen. 22:2, Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love).  It should be studied.  Most of it’s uses are in family relationships or love for objects such as food or sleep.  But it is also used of God.  There is a distinct Hebrew word for goodness (doing good or kind things) and also for mercy (love for those in pitiable situations) and so forth.  But in my view, the term checed is like love in the NT in that it applies to the deepest, widest, highest and broadest idea we can possibly have concerning the love of God (Eph. 3:17-19).  With that in mind, we will continue to speak of God’s love for another post, and then will record two posts on God’s “covenant faithfulness” (checed).]

Psalm 13:5 But I have trusted in Your mercy; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation. This word “mercy” is checed.  The poetic format requires us to relate “mercy” to “salvation,” both of which are grand aspects of God’s love.

Psalm 107:43 Whoever is wise will observe these things, And they will understand the lovingkindness of the LORD.  The truly wise are those who have come see God’s love.  Again, Eph. 3:17-19 fits here.