, “God is love” (

11 John 4∶84∶8) means love is not just an attribute but the core nature of God’s being. God’s love is shown through the sacrificial gift of Jesus Christ, offering grace, forgiveness, and unconditional, eternal devotion to humanity. Humans are called to respond by loving God and others.

Core Aspects of Love and God:

• Definition: God is the source and definition of love; to know God is to know love, as His love is uninfluenced, sovereign, and eternal.
• Expression: God demonstrates love by saving humanity through Jesus, welcoming people as His children, and providing a personal relationship.
• The Greatest Commandment: Jesus stated the highest callings are to love God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself.
• Meaning of “God is Love”: It implies that God is the essence of love, not merely a loving being.
• Our Response: Because God first loved humanity, people are enabled to love Him and others. 

Ways God Expresses His Love:

• Sacrifice: The gift of his Son, Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of sins.
• Grace: Unconditional love that is not earned by human works.
• Relationship: Inviting humanity into a personal, intimate connection.
• Protection/Guidance: Providing for humanity and offering comfort. 

The concept emphasizes that true love originates from God, and as people abide in that love, they reflect it in their lives.