The Unfolding of Love: A Shepherd's Reflection on 1 John

There's a starkness to the realization that we will stand before God. It’s not a distant possibility, a theoretical future—it’s the inevitable consequence of existing. Jase Robertson, in his characteristic style, stumbles upon this truth, wrestling with its implications and seeking a path toward confident expectation. His search leads him to 1 John, and rightly so. This epistle isn't a comfortable read; it's a demand, a challenge, and ultimately, a profound invitation.

The transcript's focus on the repeated appearance of “love” in 1 John – a staggering 27 times in a relatively short span – isn't accidental. It's a deliberate emphasis. Love isn't merely a feeling; it’s the sum of obedience. As John states in 1 John 3:24, “He that obeyeth his commandments abideth in God, and God in him.” This isn’t a passive acceptance; it’s an active, ongoing process of aligning our will with His. It’s the very essence of discipleship.

We, as Latter-day Saints, understand this principle through the lens of the Restoration. The commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39) is not a suggestion, but a foundational principle reiterated throughout the scriptures, including the Book of Mormon (Jacob 7:7). The Savior’s sacrifice, the Atonement, is the very foundation upon which this love is built. To claim to know Him without embodying His character – without demonstrating love in our actions – is a hollow claim, a perilous deception. As Moroni taught, “If ye have not the love of God in you, it is not reckoned of him” (Moroni 7:45).

The pursuit of confidence before God isn’t found in intellectual acrobatics or self-righteousness, but in the simple, unwavering commitment to love. To love God is to trust Him, even when the path is shrouded in darkness. To love our neighbor is to extend His grace and compassion, even to those who oppose us. This is the kind of love that transcends mere sentiment; it’s the kind of love that transforms.

Think of the lessons taught in the temple, the covenants we make. They aren't abstract promises; they are binding agreements, a commitment to become more like Him. The iron rod of knowledge, spoken of in D&C 84:56, is not merely intellectual understanding, but the living embodiment of that love, a guiding principle rooted in faith and obedience.

The Brethren have consistently emphasized the importance of love in General Conference. It's not a theme for a single sermon; it’s the overarching melody of the gospel. To truly understand the gospel is to understand the profound, transformative power of love—a love that demands action, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion.

Let us, as those who have grasped the iron rod, diligently examine our hearts and our actions. Are we walking as Jesus did? Are we truly loving God and our neighbor? The answer to that question will determine what we face when we stand before Him.