What does it mean that God is love?

Answer

Let’s explore how the Bible defines love, and then we will examine a few ways in which God embodies love. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a). This is God’s depiction of love, and since God is love «He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. », (1 John 4:8), this is His nature.

In love, God does not impose Himself on anyone. Those who approach Him do so in response to His love. In love, God demonstrates kindness to all. In love, Jesus went around doing good to everyone without favoritism. In love, Jesus did not covet what others possessed, leading a modest life without grumbling. In love, Jesus did not boast about His earthly identity, even though He had the power to overcome anyone He encountered. In love, Jesus willingly followed His Father in heaven. “The world must know that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me” «But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.», (John 14:31). In love, Jesus always prioritized the welfare of others.

The ultimate demonstration of God’s love is conveyed through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ, who willingly gave His life for the redemption of humanity.

God’s love for us is expressed in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 5:8 conveys a similar message: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” These verses reveal that God’s greatest desire is for us to be with Him in His eternal home, heaven. He has provided a way for this to happen by atoning for our sins. His love towards us is a deliberate choice. Love includes forgiveness. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” «If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. », (1 John 1:9).

So, what does it mean that God is love? Love is an inherent quality of God. It is a fundamental aspect of God’s nature, His Being. God’s love is always in harmony with His holiness, righteousness, justice, and even His wrath. All of God’s characteristics are perfectly balanced. Every action of God is loving, just as every action is righteous and fair. God exemplifies true love perfectly. Remarkably, God has granted those who accept His Son Jesus as their personal Savior the capacity to love as He does, by the influence of the Holy Spirit (John 1:12;1 John 3:1,23-24).