1 John 4:21 Meaning and Explanation
“And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God's commandment is that whoever loves Him must also love his brother.
What Does 1 John 4:21 Mean?
John states the command directly. This commandment we have from Him: that the one who loves God must love his brother also. Love for God and love for the brother are joined by God's own word.
God Himself binds these two loves together; we are not free to choose one and neglect the other. To love God is to be commanded, and inwardly compelled, to love those He loves. John closes this section by making the link a matter of explicit command. The whole life of faith comes down to this twofold love, and John leaves his readers in no doubt that loving God and loving one's brother belong inseparably together.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 John 4:21
What does 1 John 4:21 mean?
God's commandment is that whoever loves Him must also love his brother.