“LOVE VS. FEAR”

18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

1 John 4:18

In our last blog, we learned that our common love brings down heaven to earth. What can we learn from today’s verse?

In verse 18, John presents the opposite of love: fear (phobos, terror). He argues that if we truly have a fellowship with God, we should not fear. Perhaps the reference has to do with the fear of perishing.

John says that “perfect love casts out fear.” That is to say, God’s love, when perfected in us, drives out fear. This love has multiple layers of effect. First, God’s love moved Him to send Jesus to die for sinners. Second, God’s indwelling presence through the Holy Spirit affirms His love for believers. Third, God’s love assures His people that their future is secured.

On the other hand, a person who lives in fear has not been perfected in love. Since the idea of fear has to do with eternal punishment, John could be speaking of people who lack assurance. They haven’t truly experienced the love of God, i.e., they haven’t come to Him in repentance and faith.

Since God doesn’t want us to live in fear and doubt, He gives us assurance of salvation. Therefore, we should no longer fear punishment because Jesus already took the beatings that we deserved.

Moreover, the Bible clearly states that believers will not be condemned.

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Romans 8:1

My friend, does fear rob you of peace of mind and assurance? Surrender it to God to receive His comfort and experience His love that drives out fear.

Pursue the Savior today!