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"If anyone loves God..."

Text: 1 Corinthians 8:3

THE LOVE OF GOD

It is interesting to note what Paul wrote about “the love of God” in this context. What has it got to do with the subject of “food offered to idols?”

“Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies…
But if anyone loves God, this one is known by Him.”
1 Corinthians 8:1c, 3

1. Setting up the preliminary thoughts

a) He chose not to approach the subject of food offered to idols based on “knowledge”.

i) He was referring to “natural knowledge”.

ii) This kind of knowledge would make a person arrogant.

iii) This conceited approach was not wise nor welcome.

b) His approach would be one of “love”.

i) This is a reference to God’s kind of love (Greek “agape”).

ii) This is needed in order that one may be sensitive to people all around.

2. “If anyone loves God”

a) The love of God is well-demonstrated.

i) He gave His only-begotten Son.

ii) He loved us though we may be sinful.

b) The appropriate response

i) The true believer must love God.

ii) If this love is genuine, it should be edifying.

iii) It should never be arrogant or conceited.

iv) It should cause the church to be further edified.

3. “This one is known by Him”

a) There would be some who claim that they know God.

i) There would be those who claim they have knowledge enough to deal with the subject of food offered to idols.

ii) There would be people who claim that they have a love for God.

b) Paul’s point was that God Himself would indicate the person who truly loved Him.

i) God always manifests His approval on the one who truly loves Him.

ii) To that individual, the Spirit of God would be placed upon Him (Matthew 12:18).