Sermon on 1 John 3:11 (KJV)

Scripture: "For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another." - 1 John 3:11 (KJV)

Introduction:

Beloved, today we gather to reflect on a timeless truth from the First Epistle of John. This verse, 1 John 3:11, reminds us that the call to love one another is not a new commandment, but one that has echoed from the very beginning of our faith. Let us explore the depth of this divine message and how it shapes our identity as followers of Christ.

1. The Message from the Beginning:

John emphasizes that the command to love is not a recent innovation but a foundational truth. From the teachings of Jesus to the earliest days of the Church, love has been the heartbeat of the gospel. It is the message we have heard from the beginning because it reflects the very nature of God.

• Application: Revisit the roots of your faith. Ask yourself: Is love at the center of my walk with Christ? Let your actions reflect the original message—love that is patient, kind, and sacrificial.

2. Love as the Mark of the Believer:

In the verses that follow, John contrasts love with hatred, using the example of Cain and Abel. Cain's lack of love led to violence, while true believers are called to demonstrate their spiritual rebirth through love. Love is not optional—it is evidence that we have passed from death to life.

• Application: Examine your relationships. Are there grudges, bitterness, or indifference that need to be surrendered? Let love be the proof of your transformation in Christ.

3. Love in Action, Not Just in Word:

John later writes, "Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth" (1 John 3:18). Love is not merely a sentiment—it is a lifestyle. It is seen in how we serve, forgive, and uplift one another.

• Application: Look for tangible ways to love this week. Meet a need, offer encouragement, or extend grace. Let your love be visible and sincere.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on 1 John 3:11, let us return to the message we heard from the beginning: that we should love one another. This love is not rooted in emotion alone, but in obedience to Christ and a reflection of His love for us. In a world fractured by division, may we be known by our love.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may His love be perfected in you as you love one another. Amen.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 6/29/2025

1. First Baptist Church (Bartow) - Loving Greatly (1 John 3:11-24)
2. McCleary Community Church - LOVING ONE ANOTHER (1 John 3:11-24)
3. Sermon Seeds - REAL CHRISTIANITY # 12: TRUE LOVE (1 John 3:11-18)