InstaStudy

God is Love: A Study of Divine Affection

A study exploring the multifaceted nature of God's love as revealed in scripture, its manifestation in creation, redemption, and our lives, and how we are called to respond to this divine attribute.

1. The Nature of God's Love

1.1 God is Love (His Essence)

Verses: 1 John 4:8; 1 John 4:16
  • Love is not just an attribute of God; it is His very nature.
  • God's character is perfectly defined by love.

1.2 God's Love is Unchanging

Verses: Malachi 3:6; James 1:17; Hebrews 13:8
  • God's love is constant and eternal, not subject to human fickleness.
  • His faithfulness ensures His love endures through all generations.

1.3 God's Love is One

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 45:5; Mark 12:29
  • The Lord our God is one Lord, and His love flows from His singular being.
  • There is one God, and His love is undivided and complete.

1.4 God's Love is Holy

Verses: Leviticus 11:44; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:10
  • God's love is pure and righteous, never condoning sin.
  • His love desires our sanctification and holiness.

2. God's Love in Creation and Providence

2.1 Love in Creation

Verses: Genesis 1:31; Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20
  • The beauty and order of creation reflect God's benevolent design.
  • God's love is evident in providing a perfect environment for life.

2.2 Love in Sustaining Life

Verses: Psalm 145:9; Matthew 6:26; Acts 17:28
  • God's love actively sustains all living things.
  • He provides for the needs of His creation daily.

2.3 Love in Guidance and Care

Verses: Psalm 23:1-3; Isaiah 41:10; Jeremiah 29:11
  • God's love guides and protects His people through life's challenges.
  • He has good plans for our welfare and future.

3. God's Love in Redemption

3.1 The Incarnation as an Act of Love

Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; 1 Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 9:6
  • God Himself, the one true God, took on human flesh to dwell among us.
  • This manifestation of God as Jesus Christ was the ultimate expression of divine love for humanity.

3.2 The Atonement as the Ultimate Expression of Love

Verses: John 3:16; Romans 5:8; Acts 20:28
  • God's love led Him to sacrifice Himself on the cross for our sins.
  • The shedding of His own blood provided complete atonement and reconciliation.

3.3 The Gift of the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:38-39; John 14:16-18; Romans 8:9-11
  • God's love is demonstrated by His promise to indwell believers with His Spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit is the very presence of God living within us, empowering and guiding.

3.4 The Call to Repentance and Baptism

Verses: Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-4
  • God's love provides the path to salvation through repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • This act of obedience allows us to participate in His redemptive work and receive the Holy Spirit.

4. Responding to God's Love

4.1 Loving God Back

Verses: Matthew 22:37; 1 John 4:19; Deuteronomy 10:12
  • Our primary response to God's love is to love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind.
  • This love is expressed through worship, devotion, and gratitude.

4.2 Loving Our Neighbor

Verses: Matthew 22:39; 1 John 4:20-21; Galatians 5:14
  • God's love compels us to extend compassion and kindness to others.
  • Loving our neighbor is a tangible demonstration of our love for God.

4.3 Living a Life of Obedience

Verses: John 14:15; 1 John 5:3; Romans 12:1-2
  • True love for God is demonstrated by our willingness to obey His commands.
  • Obedience is not burdensome but a joyful response to His goodness.

4.4 Sharing God's Love

Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Romans 10:14-15
  • God's love motivates us to share the good news of salvation with others.
  • We are called to be instruments of His love in the world.