How the theme develops
- God's love moves toward the world in the given Son.
- The Shepherd's laid-down life displays love.
- Footwashing and cross define love to the end.
- Mutual love becomes the Church's visible witness.
Key passages
- John 3:16
- John 10:17
- John 13:1,34-35
- John 15:9-17
- John 17:23-26
What it reveals about Jesus
Jesus receives and reveals the Father's eternal love and gives His life for friends.
Old Testament background
Deuteronomy 7:7-9; Hosea 11
Confessional Lutheran reflection
Christian love is fruit of Christ's prior gift, not a work that earns God's favor.