Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 John 4:9

"Herein was the love of God manifested in us, that God hath sent his only begotten Son into the world that we might live through him." — 1 John 4:9 (ASV)

The simple but profound statement “God is love” is explained by what God did. “He sent his one and only Son into the world” (cf. Jn 3:16-17). The author makes clear that the love he speaks of involves concrete actions. God’s love required him to send his Son. God’s love in us requires deeds by which we show our love for one another. The purpose of God’s act is “that we might live through him.” Death is our present condition (cf. 3:14); God intended that we might find life in him so that we might live in love as he works in and through us.