1 John 3:1-12
In a normal family love forms the bond between the members. Children receive it and learn it from their parents; then children return it to parents and express it amongst themselves. This is just a feeble picture of the love which the Father has given us in calling us His children! We are not expected to understand this love but rather to see it (v. 1) and, having seen it, to enjoy it.
Some believers may deduce from v. 9 that they do not have the life which God gives, because they still sin occasionally (see 1 John 5:18). May we fully understand that the real "I" of the Christian is the new man and that he can not sin.
The division of the human race into children of God and children of the devil is established absolutely in vv. 7-12 (cf. John 8:44). Today in many religious circles this difference is not recognised. It is agreed that some practise Christianity more than others. But those who claim to be saved whilst others will perish are accused of being arrogant and narrow-minded. However, this lack of understanding from the world, which can even lead to hatred, gives us the opportunity in a small way to be like the Lord Jesus down here (v. 1 end; John 16:1-3). Soon we will be made like Him in glory, for we shall see Him as He is (v. 2).