It is not uncommon to hear “Love” described in abstract, ethereal terms. As something that has no standard, is uncontrolled, and can even be irrational. Is it not interesting then, that John two times pairs the term “love” with “truth” in these three verses? Truth is always an absolute in Scripture, presented as a definitive standard, rather than a possible abstraction. For example, 1 Timothy 2:4 says that God desires all men to come to a knowledge of the truth. Jesus Christ called Himself the Truth and further clarified that there is no other way except through Him.
So, when John tells us in 1 John 1:1 that he loves “in the truth,” and in verse 3 tells us that Christ will be with us “in truth and love,” we are reminded that our Christian love that we are to have for one another goes hand in hand with the truth. Our love that we are commanded to show is not in spite of God’s absolute truth; it is grounded upon it.
“Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.” – 2 John 1:3
To God Alone be the Glory,
Pastor Andrew Zoshke