What does 1 John 4:21 mean?

And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also. 1 John 4:21

Explanation

The verse 1 John 4:21, “And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also,” captures the essence of Christian ethical teaching on love. In a literal sense, this verse is a directive for individuals who profess love for God to also show love towards others, particularly their ‘brother’. The term ‘brother’ can be interpreted broadly to mean fellow believers or more generally to include all humanity. The deeper meaning of this verse emphasizes the inseparability of love for God and love for others – it suggests that true devotion to God is demonstrated through the love and compassion one shows to their fellow man.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the First Epistle of John, traditionally attributed to John the Apostle. The exact dating of the book is uncertain, but it is often placed towards the end of the 1st century A.D., during a time when early Christian communities were grappling with false teachings and internal divisions. The epistle addresses these issues by emphasizing the foundational Christian principles of truth, love, and obedience, and by reinforcing the authenticity of Jesus as the Christ. The historical situation might have influenced the strong emphasis on loving one another as a hallmark of genuine faith.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, 1 John 4:21 is a clear indication of the interdependence between the love of God and love of neighbor. This concept is rooted in the belief that God is love and those who abide in love, abide in God. According to Christian theology, love is not merely a feeling but an action—a commitment to the well-being of others, reflecting the love God has shown to humanity through Jesus Christ.

Different theological viewpoints may slightly vary on the implications of this verse. For instance, a Calvinist might emphasize that the ability to love others comes solely from God’s grace, while an Arminian perspective might highlight human cooperation with divine grace. Liberation theology could use this verse to underscore a call to societal action, advocating for justice and care for the marginalized as expressions of loving one’s brother.

Practical Applications

In everyday life, the teachings of this verse can be applied in numerous ways. It could mean offering support and kindness to those in need or actively working to foster unity within a community. It can also be reflected in small daily acts of generosity, patience, and forgiveness. Additionally, it encourages people to look beyond superficial differences and seek the common humanity that binds everyone together—it’s a call for empathy and altruistic behavior.

Cross-References

• John 13:34 (KJV): “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”
• Matthew 22:37-39 (KJV): “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”
• 1 John 3:23 (KJV): “And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key words are:

• “commandment” (ἐντολή – entolē): This refers to an authoritative order or charge. It is used in the New Testament to refer to the commands of Jesus and by extension, to the commands of God as well.
• “loveth” (ἀγαπῶν – agapōn): This term for love is used to describe the unconditional, self-sacrificial love that is a hallmark of God’s nature. It’s an active, willful, and deliberate affection and care for others.
• “brother” (ἀδελφός – adelphos): Initially indicating a biological sibling, it is often used in the New Testament as a metaphor for fellow believers or a member of the Christian community.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other cultures and religious traditions, there are also parallels to the idea of linking the love for the divine with the love for one’s fellow beings. For example, in Hinduism, the concept of ‘seva’ or service is seen as a form of worship. Similarly, in Islam, the Hadith states that none of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself. These parallels show a widespread recognition in many religions of the fundamental link between love for God and ethical behavior towards others.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific study of altruism and empathy can complement the teachings of this verse. Research in psychology and neuroscience has shown that acts of kindness and compassion can promote mental and physical health. From an evolutionary perspective, cooperative behaviors and social bonds can be advantageous for survival. These scientific understandings, while based on empirical evidence rather than spiritual doctrine, can offer additional insights into the benefits and importance of loving others as deduced from the verse.

Commentaries

Commentators on this verse offer varied insights. John Wesley’s commentary emphasizes that the command to love one’s brother is directly from God and that it is an evidence of our love for God. Matthew Henry’s commentary suggests that the love of God and the love of the brethren is intertwined, and to love one’s brother is a divine command that proves one’s sincere affection towards God. More contemporary scholars continue to reflect on the centrality of this commandment in Christian ethics, discussing how it reflects the core of Jesus’ teachings and the nature of the Christian community.