Hereby perceive we the love of God; the words "of God" are not in the original. The literal rendering is, "Herein"-by the example that follows-"we know love," we see and understand its true nature.

He; Christ.

To lay down our lives; to have that love which makes us ready to die for our brethren, and actually to do so when God calls us. Such a love is constantly active in doing good, as the apostle proceeds to show. We may be called on to sacrifice life, but never to give up our salvation, for the good of others.

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising

Old Testament