Jesus said “the Father Himself loves you” (John 16:27). We know that God loves all people that He created, remember that “God is love”, 1 John 4:8, and He is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” 2 Peter 3:9. I believe the love Jesus is speaking about in our text verse is more than His general love for all people; rather it takes a step beyond that to an intimate family love shared with those that reciprocate His love! Remember that the greatest expression of love is not verbal, but is shown by activity; love always seeks to please its object, which reminds me of Jesus words in Matthew 11:30, “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Notice Jesus pointed words in John 14:15 quoted from the Amplified Bible, “If you [really] love Me” you will keep (obey) My commandments.” Then in verse 23 of this same chapter He makes this statement coupled with a promise, “If any man loves Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him.” From this statement we draw that the full experience of this realm or degree of the Fathers love is contingent upon our reciprocal response to Him! Jesus continues in John 16:27 showing that this intimate relationship is “because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God.” And His coming and actions are proof of God’s “love toward us” Romans 5:8.
The Father’s love
By Rose Hill
Jesus said, If you really love Me,
You will keep My words and all will see;
That all My teaching you do obey,
And from My commands you do not stray.
Then My father will surely love you too,
And come live with you if to Him you’re true.
Unless otherwise noted Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson Co. used by permission.