UASV’s Daily Devotional All Things Bible, Tuesday, March 18, 2025

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How Has God Demonstrated His Love for Humanity?

1 John 4:9 states, “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” This verse emphasizes the ultimate demonstration of Jehovah’s love—the sending of Jesus as a sacrifice for humanity. It teaches that Jehovah’s love is not just an abstract idea but is shown through action, providing a way for people to have eternal life.

The phrase “This is how God showed his love among us” makes it clear that Jehovah’s love is not hidden or theoretical—it has been revealed in a tangible way. The Greek word for “showed” (phaneroó) means to make visible or to manifest. Jehovah does not merely declare His love; He proves it through His actions. Romans 5:8 reinforces this truth: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jehovah’s love is not based on human worthiness but on His own gracious character.

The next part of the verse, “He sent his one and only Son into the world,” highlights the depth of Jehovah’s love. The phrase “one and only” (monogenés) signifies Jesus’ unique role in Jehovah’s plan. Unlike the prophets or righteous men of old, Jesus had a special position as the chosen one sent to fulfill Jehovah’s purpose. John 3:16 echoes this truth: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jehovah willingly provided Jesus as the ultimate expression of His love, offering salvation to those who accept it.

The final phrase, “that we might live through him,” reveals the purpose of Jesus’ mission—to bring life to those who were spiritually dead. Without Jehovah’s intervention, humanity was lost in sin and without hope. Ephesians 2:4-5 explains, “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection made it possible for believers to be reconciled with Jehovah and receive the promise of eternal life.

Jehovah’s love is not passive—it is active, sacrificial, and life-giving. 1 John 4:10 further clarifies this by saying, “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” True love originates with Jehovah and is demonstrated through His provision of salvation.

Ultimately, 1 John 4:9 teaches that Jehovah’s love is best seen in His actions. He did not leave humanity in sin but sent Jesus to provide a way to life. This verse calls believers to recognize Jehovah’s immense love and respond with gratitude, obedience, and a commitment to living through Jesus, following his example in all things.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).